2016-02-17 Grant Committee Agenda Packet (SECOND AMENDED)California Public Records Act ("PRA"): In compliance with the PRA, the documents pertaining to agenda
items, including attachments, which are presented to the Vernon CommUNITY Fund Grant Committee in open
session are available for public inspection. They may be inspected during regular business hours in the City
Clerk's Office at Vernon City Hall, 4305 Santa Fe Avenue, Vernon, California 90058, and on the City’s website
at www.cityofvernon.org. No prior appointment is required.
Americans with Disabilities Act (“ADA”): In compliance with the ADA, if you need special assistance to
participate in a meeting, please contact the City Clerk’s office at (323) 583-8811. Notification of at least 48
hours prior to the meeting or time when services are needed will assist the City staff in assuring that reasonable
arrangements can be made to provide accessibility to the meeting or service.
SECOND AMENDED AGENDA
Regular Vernon CommUNITY Fund
Grant Committee Meeting
February 17, 2016, 10:00 a.m.
Council Chamber
City Hall, 4305 Santa Fe Avenue
Vernon, California 90058
Michael Gavina, Chairperson
Jessica Maes, Vice Chairperson
Lawrence Cooper, Committee Member
William Davis, Committee Member
Juliet Goff, Committee Member
Steve Veres, Committee Member
Rafael Gonzalez, Committee Member
CALL TO ORDER & FLAG SALUTE
CHANGES TO THE AGENDA
PUBLIC COMMENT - At this time the public is encouraged to address the Grant Committee on any matter
that is within the subject matter jurisdiction of the Grant Committee. The public will also be given a chance to
comment on matters which are on the posted agenda during deliberation on those specific matters.
MINUTES – TO BE RECEIVED AND FILED
1. Minutes of the Regular Vernon CommUNITY Fund Grant Committee Meeting held on November
18, 2015.
/ / /
/ / /
/ / /
Regular Vernon CommUNITY Fund Grant Committee Meeting
February 17, 2016
Page 2 of 4
GRANT AWARDING
REFERENCE AMENDED AGENDA ITEM NO. 2
2. Award of Fiscal Year 2015/2016 Docket III Vernon CommUNITY Fund Grants.
Recommendation:
A. Find that the award of the grants proposed in this staff report is exempt under the California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) in accordance with Section 15061(b)(3), the general
rule that CEQA only applies to projects that may have an effect on the environment.
B. Award Fiscal Year 20 15/2016 Docket III grants totaling $175,000 to the four applicants
identified below at the amounts recommended:
Applicant
Original Amount
Requested
Amount
Recommended Proposed Term
Girl Scouts of Greater
Los Angeles
$60,000
$35,000
I year
Self Help Graphics & Arts $50,000 $40,000 I year
Los Angeles Center
For Law and Justice
$50,000
$50,000
I year
Neighborhood Music
School Association $50,000
$50,000
I year
NEW BUSINESS
**Note: The “Recommendation” for Agenda Item No. 3 has been amended as follows:
3. Amendment No. 1 to the Vernon CommUNITY Fund Grant Agreement with California
Children’s Academy
Recommendation
A. Find that the action proposed in this staff report is exempt under the California Environmental
Quality Act (CEQA) in accordance with Section 15061(b)(3), the general rule that CEQA only
applies to projects that may have an effect on the environment.
B. Approve Amendment No. 1 to the December 22, 2014 Vernon CommUNITY Fund Grant
Agreement with California Children’s Academy to authorize the reallocation of $40,000 of its
Vernon CommUNITY Fund Grant toward the development of an infant/toddler program, to extend
the term of the grant to June 30, 2016, and to extend the deadline for the final report to July 31,
2016.
Regular Vernon CommUNITY Fund Grant Committee Meeting
February 17, 2016
Page 3 of 4
A. Find that the action proposed in this staff report is exempt under the California Environmental
Quality Act (CEQA) in accordance with Section 15061(b)(3), the general rule that CEQA only
applies to projects that may have an effect on the environment.
B. Approve Amendment No. 1 to the December 22, 2014 Vernon CommUNITY Fund Grant
Agreement with California Children’s Academy to authorize the reallocation of $40,000 of its
Vernon CommUNITY Fund Grant toward the development of an infant/toddler program and to
extend the term of the grant to April 30, 2016.
DISCUSSION ITEMS AND POSSIBLE DIRECTIVES TO STAFF
4. Discussion regarding the prioritization and structure for the fiscal year 2016-2017 grant
application process.
City consultant Jemmott Rollins Group will present and review related options and considerations and
seek feedback from the Committee regarding the development of a final plan to present for approval at
the May 18, 2016 meeting.
Recommendation:
A. Authorize Jemmott Rollins Group to temporarily close the application process until a new process
is established for fiscal year 2016-2017.
5. Discussion regarding the continued review and development of a capital grants program.
City consultant Jemmott Rollins Group will present and review additional options for consideration and
discussion and seek feedback from the Committee regarding the further development of a capital grants
program.
ORAL REPORTS
6. City consultant Jemmott Rollins Group to provide a summary of the fiscal year 2014-2015 Interim
Grant Reports.
7. Brief reports on activities, other brief announcements, and directives to staff.
8. Next regular meeting: May 18, 2016
/ / /
/ / /
/ / /
Regular Vernon CommUNITY Fund Grant Committee Meeting
February 17, 2016
Page 4 of 4
ADJOURNMENT
I hereby certify under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of California, that the foregoing agenda was
posted on the bulletin board at the main entrance of the City of Vernon City Hall, located at 4305 Santa Fe Avenue,
Vernon, California, and on the City’s website, not less than 15 days prior to the meeting set forth on this agenda.
Dated this 11th day of February, 2016.
By: ________________________________
Maria E. Ayala, CMC
Secretary
MINUTES OF THE REGULAR VERNON COMMUNITY FUND
GRANT COMMITTEE MEETING OF THE CITY OF VERNON HELD
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2015, AT 10:00 A.M. IN THE CITY
HALL COUNCIL CHAMBER, LOCATED AT 4305 SANTA FE
AVENUE, VERNON, CALIFORNIA
MEMBERS PRESENT: Michael Gavina, Jessica Maes, Juliet Goff, and Lawrence Cooper
MEMBERS ABSENT: William Davis, Rafael Gonzalez, and Steve Veres
Chairperson Gavina called the meeting to order at 10:20 a.m. and also led the flag salute.
Gavina announced that there were no changes to the agenda.
PUBLIC COMMENT
Chairperson Gavina announced that this was the time allotted for public comment and inquired
whether anyone in the audience wished to address the Committee. The public will also be given
a chance to comment on matters which are on the posted agenda during Committee deliberation
on those specific matters.
No public comment.
PRESENTATION
1. Presentation by City Consultant Fred MacFarlane of a proposed Vernon
CommUNITY Fund logo package to be used by grant recipients. The Grant
Committee will be requested to approve the proposed package or provide feedback
related to any proposed revisions to the package."
Consultant Fred MacFarlane reported on the standardization and use of the Vernon
CommUNITY Fund logo package. MacFarlane also reported the potential change to the Vernon
City seal and the impact it would have on the community Fund logo.
Member Goff noted the need to communicate the involvement and contribution of the business
community to the CommUNITY Fund. Potentially address this through personalization and
message that the funds come from the business community.
MacFarlane advised that this messaging could be accomplished through the CommUNITY Fund
website.
MINUTES – TO BE RECEIVED AND FILED
2. Minutes of the Regular Vernon CommUNITY Fund Grant Committee Meeting
held on August 19, 2015.
3. Minutes of the Special Vernon CommUNITY Fund Grant Committee Meeting
held on September 30, 2015.
It was moved by Goff and seconded by Cooper to approve the Minutes for the above listed
meetings. Motion carried, 4-0.
GRANT AWARDING
4. Award of Fiscal Year 2015/2016 Docket II Vernon CommUNITY Fund Grants.
Recommendation:
A. Find that the award of the proposed grants are exempt under the California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) in accordance with Section 15061(b)(3), the
general rule that CEQA only applies to projects that may have an effect on the
environment; and
Regular Vernon CommUNITY Fund Grant Committee Meeting Minutes
August 19, 2015
Page 2 of 3
B. Award Fiscal Year 2015/2016 Docket II grants totaling $188,000 to the six
applicants identified below at the amounts recommended:
Applicant
Original Amount
Requested
Amount
Recommended
Proposed
Term
Helpline Youth
Counseling $107,023 $45,000 1 year
Hispanas Organized
for Political Equality
(HOPE) $15,000 $10,000 1 year
Human Services
Association $250,000/2 years $35,000 1 year
Opportunity Fund $100,000 $40,000 1 year
South Central Family
Health Center
(Huntington Park
Family Health Center
Location) $250,000/2 years $38,000 1 year
Woodcraft Rangers $40,000 $20,000 1 year
Fran Jemmott of Jemmott Rollins Group introduced the item. Jemmott noted the
recommendation to change the recommended award amount for Woodcraft Rangers to their
original application amount of $40,000.
It was moved by Goff and seconded by Maes to approve the grant in the increased award amount
of $40,000 to Woodcraft Rangers. Motion carried, 4-0.
Anne-Marie Jones of Jemmott Rollins Group reported on each of the proposed grant recipients.
Staff responded to various committee inquiries.
The Committee approved the recommendations for the remaining grant applicants as presented
as follows:
It was moved by Maes and seconded by Cooper to approve the grant for Helpline Youth
Counseling. Motion carried, 4-0.
It was moved by Maes and seconded by Goff to approve the grant for Hispanas Organized for
Political Equality (HOPE). Motion carried, 4-0.
It was moved by Maes and seconded by Goff to approve the grant for Human Services
Association. Motion carried, 4-0.
It was moved by Goff and seconded by Gavina to approve the grant for Opportunity Fund.
Motion carried, 4-0.
It was moved by Maes and seconded by Goff to approve the grant for South Central Family
Health Center (Huntington Park Family Health Center Location). Motion carried, 4-0.
Chairperson Gavina noted that some of the applications and program information are still a little
unclear until discussions are had. Member Goff added that it would be beneficial to see how
each proposed grant meets the guiding principles for grant recipients. The Committee should be
mindful of this criteria.
/ / /
/ / /
/ / /
Regular Vernon CommUNITY Fund Grant Committee Meeting Minutes
August 19, 2015
Page 3 of 3
ORAL REPORTS
5. Update on capital grants program review and analysis.
Fran Jemmott of Jemmott Rollins Group proposed that a portion of subsequent meetings be
dedicated to how grants are reviewed and how grant applications are qualified. Consider
possible adjustments to the policies.
6. Brief reports on activities, other brief announcements, and directives to staff.
Fran Jemmott of Jemmott Rollins Group noted that enough grant applicants are currently in the
queue for the next docket. One returning grant recipient has applied for a new grant. Staff will
be providing progress reports on grant recipients at an upcoming meeting which will give the
Committee an opportunity to reflect over what worked well or didn’t.
7. Next regular meeting: February, 17, 2016
The next regular meeting was noted.
With no further business, Chairperson Gavina adjourned the meeting at 11:44 a.m.
________________________
Michael Gavina
Chairperson
ATTEST:
_________________________
Maria E. Ayala, CMC
Secretary
REGEIVED
FEB 0 2 2016
STAFF REPORT $TYCLERKSOfFICE
CITY ADMINISTRATION
DATE:
TO:
FROM:
RE:
February 17,2016
Honorable Members of the Vernon CommUNITY Fund Grant Committee
Originator: Lilia Hernandez, ExeEtt(ve Assistant to the City Administrator
A.J. Wilson, Executive Director
Award of Fiscal Year 2015/2016 Docket III Vernon CommUNITY Fund
Grants
Recommendation
A. Find that the award of the grants proposed in this staff report is exempt under the
Califomia Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) in accordance with Section 15061(bX3),
the general rule that CEQA only applies to projects that may have an effect on the
environment-
B. Award Fiscal Year 2015/2016 Docket lll grants totaling $175,000 to the four applicants
identified below at the amounts recommended:
Applicant
Original
Amount
Requested
Amount
Recommended
Proposed
Term
Girl Scouts of, Greater Los
Angeles $60,000 s35,000 I year
Self Help Graphics & Arts $50,000 s40.000 I year
Los Angeles Center for
Law and Justice s50.000 $s0,000 I year
Neighborhood Music
School Association s50,000 $50,000 I year
Backqround
As one of the key elements of the City's
Vemon CommUNITY Fund ("VCF") to
good govemance reforms, the City Council created the
provide grants to charitable and govemmental entities
Page I of4
for projects and programs that benefit those residing and working in vemon. Given the
exclusively industrial nature of vemon, the city council determined that the vCF was in best
interest of the City and its residents, businesses, and workers.
On September l, 2013, the City retained the services of Jemmott Rollins Group, Inc. (..JRG',) to
provide consultation, guidance, research and specialized administrative support services to the
City Administrator and City statT related to the VCF. JRG has extensive experience in non-protit
grant-making and grants management and specialized knowledge of ethics principles governing
the granrmaking process.
on February 4,2014, the City council adopted ordinance No. l2l8 to establish the Vernon
CommUNITY Fund Grant Committee ("Grant Committee") and provide the basic guidelines and
operational procedures tbr said Committee and its olficers, including those related to the
allocation ol funds and the processes fbr reviewing and ranking applications and awarding
grants.
Fiscal Year 20 l5/2016 Fundins
Pursuant to Vemon Municipal Code Section 2.164, the City Council appropriated S1,000,000 to
the vcF for fiscal year 2015-2016. The Grant committee is required to allocate funds in
accordance with the lollowing formula:
I ) No less than 25% of funds available in any fiscal year shall be awarded to proposals to
expend funds on capital projects with a projected useful life of l0 years or more, or
otherwise reserve such funds for such projects to be awarded in the future.
2) The remainder of available funds in any fiscal year may be awarded to proposals to
expend funds on direct services. No single grant of this type shall be in an amount less
than $5,000 or more than $250,000.a) The Grant Committee may award multi-year grants. For such gants, all funds
necessary to fund the entire grant must be available to the Committee in the year
of the award. The total amount ofany grant may not exceed $250,000, regardless
of the number of years over which the grant funds are to be spent. The Grant
Committee shall reserve suffrcient funds to ensure that the grant can be fully
funded without the appropriation of additional City funds in future years.
In consideration of the minimum required set aside for capital projects, the total maximum
amount ol grant funds available tbr award to proposals for direct services during Fiscal Year
201512016 is $750,000. As such, JRG and City staff recommend the Grant Committee award
approximately $187,500 in grants tbr direct services at each of four quarterly meetings proposed
to occur this fiscal year, including this meeting. This will assure the availability of resources
throughout the year and a level playing field for applicants.
Criteria for Ranking Grant Prooosals
Pursuant to Vernon Municipal Code Section 2.166, no grant shall be awarded unless doing so
serves a municipal purpose of the City, and the Executive Director and Grant Committee must
rank all proposals from eligible applicants using the following factors:
Page 2 of .l
I ) The extent to which the funds will promote the health, safety, and welfare of persons
residing or working within the Vemon Area.
2) The benefit anticipated to accrue to the Vernon Area.
3) The extent to which the public will appreciate that the benefits of the proposed actions
were a direct result of the funding provided by the City of Vemon.
4) Evidence that the funds will be used by an organization with sulficient capacity to do the
work, and will be used effectively and without inefficiencies, waste or fraud.
5) For proposals for capital projects, the ability and commitment to fund the maintenance
and repair ofthe project over the long term.
FY 2015/2016 Docket ll I Grant Apolications
Docket III and 2015/2016 year to date information is summarized in the Grant Review
Committee Transmittal Report attached hereto as Attachment L
As previously indicated, the third grant docket for the VCF contains tbur applications for review,
deliberation, and award by the Grant Committee. All applicants meet the eligibility requirements
set forth in Section 2.165 of the Vemon Municipal Code and all applications were thoroughly
vetted by JRG and City staff using the atbrernentioned ranking criteria.
Based on the application criteria, JRG's due diligence findings, and the amount of funding
available, the total amount of grant funding recommended for Fiscal Year 2015/2016 Docket III
is $175.000.
JRG staffhas prepared a written summary for each grant application describing its merits and
potential risks, which is attached hereto as Attachment 2. These materials and recommendations
are to be used only as guiding documents tbr the Grant Committee's deliberation. The Grant
Committee is expected to debate the content of each application at its February l'7 , 2016
meeting. The full applications are publicly available and can be accessed online at
https://jemmottrollinsprouo.fluidreview.com or at the City Clerk's Office at Vemon City Hall.
Grant Asreement
Upon award of grants by the Grant Committee, each grant recipient shall be required to execute a
Grant Agreement in substantially the same lbrm as attached hereto as Attachment 3. The Grant
Agreement sets forth the terms and conditions of the grant, including the amount and purpose(s)
of the grant, written reporting requirements, the retum of any unused portion, and requirements
respecting the use of the VCF logo.
Fiscal Imoact
The Fiscal Year 2015/2016 Docket III total recommended grant award amount of $175,000 is
included in the 2015/2016 City Budget and is within the recommended quarterly allocation of
approximately $ 187,500 for this fiscal year.
Page 3 of4
Attachment(s)
1. Grant Review Committee Transmittal Report2. FY 2015/2016 Docket III Grant Application Summaries
3. Form Grant Agreement
Page 4 ol4
Attachment 1
Grant Review Committee Transmittal Report
"-k**
Grant Review Committee
Transmittal Report
February 2016
Comments/Observations
. All four grants requests have a significant focus on Boyle Heights. All four grant requests have a significant portion, if not all of their organizational focus, on children, teens,
and young adultso Two of the four organizations have arts and culture as the primary focus of their mission
Year to Date FY15-15: Docket I & ll
Current Cycle: Docket lll FY15-16
Total S Amount of Grant Requests s210,000
Total S Amount of Grant Recommendations S17s,ooo
Total # Recommended Grants 4
Average Recommended 6rant Amount s43,7s0
of Recommended Grants
ORGANtzATtoN REQUESTED
AMOUNT
REcoMMENDED
AMOUNI
CoMMUNTTES SERVED
Girl Scouts of Greater Los
Angeles
60,000 35,000 Bell, Boyle Heights, Commerce, East Los Angeles,
Huntington Park, Maywood, Vernon
Self Help Graphics & Arts 50,000 40,000 Boyle Heights, unincorporated East Los Angeles,
Commerce
Los Angeles Center for
Law and lustice
50,000 50,000 Bell, Boyle Heights, Commerce, unincorporated East
Los Angeles, Huntington Park, Maywood, Vernon
Neighborhood Music
School Association
s0,000 s0,000 Boyle Heights, unincorporated East Los Angeles
TOTAL RECOMMTNDED AMOUNT s17s,000
Total S Amount of Grant Requests s874,643
Total Grant Amount s388,000
Total # Grants Recommended 11
Average Recommended Grant Amount 53s,272
As of 1
N umber of Pending Applications 5
Total S Amount of Grant Requests $455,000 for one year (S57O,OOO total)
Total 6rants Awarded - Dockets l, ll, lll
Total S Amount of Grants - Dockets l. ll. lll
Attachment 2
FY 201512016 Docket III
Grant Application Summaries
GRANT RXCOMMENDATION FORM
General Applicant lnformation
@
@
Type of support
requested:
.2. General Operating
f. ProlecuProgram
Brief Narrative description of the organization
The Girl Scouts is one of the most recognized and one of the largest organizations serving girls
and women in the United States. Having been active in the Los Angeles area since 1926, with a
formal founding in 1958, Girl Scouts of Greater Los Angeles (GSGLA) "builds girls of courage,
confidence and character, who make the world a better place. "
Scouting curriculum and programs focus on building leadership and life skills in girls and young
women, using community service projects as a primary mechanism for testing out and refining
those skills. GSGLA serves approximately 650 girls annually in the Vernon CommuNlry Fund
area, with the support of over 300 adult volunteers.
Organizational strengths:
A high profile brand and reputation for excellence - ln the Southern California region, GSGLA
serves 40,000 girls annually, including many girls and their families who return to be involved with
scouting over the course of a decade or more.
Award winning management and leadership - In the last 5 years, the organization and leadership
team has been recognized by The Los Angeles Business Journal; as a winner in the Los Angeles
Times Readers Choice Competition; and as a PBS SoCal Community Champion
Diversified revenue streams - As one might imagine, the bulk of their income is generated from
cookie sales ($12 million) and program fees, but a good po(ion of public support stems from
individual donations, foundations and corporations.
Proposal Details
Children, Youth, TeensAge Kange:Family Type:nla
Gender: Gitl"Military Status:nla
Race/Ethnicity:nla Sexual Orientation:
Economic Status: n/a Other (specify):f
CosUBenetit:
With a $35,000 grant and anticipating 650 girls, the VCF is contributing
approximately $54/scout.
Staff Analysis
Documents reviewed
/ euaiurRs Form gg0 ldated: 0e / 30 12014 )
/ Organizational Budget
/ Proposal Budget
Description of the proposal to which funds would apply
(if no particular project is specilied, please nole General Operating Support in this area)
It is recommended that funds be allocated for general program expenses for Southeast Los Angeles
and the VCF area. This includes assistance and grants for scouts in this area, and a portion of staff
staff costs for the after-school program.
Girl Scout staff provide after-school programming at 23 school and community sites, as well as
support for the 65 active troops in the area.
Beneficiaries and/or
potential impact on the
non-profiUgovemmental
landscape:
Youth leadership programs developed speciflcally for girls are rare. ln
Southeast Los Angeles, GSGLA is working with schools and after-school
programs to focus specifically on serving the needs of girls in the area.
How does the proposal align with the goals of the Fund?
When assessing this proposal against the goals of the fund, it most closely aligns with the following:
-To promote positive social development of children, youth, families and senior residents an Vernon and
surrounding areas
-To promote effective and responsible leadership at every level of society
ln looking at the eligibility criteria, this proposal ranks highest in the following areas:
-Promote the health, safety and welfare of persons residing or working within the designated geographic areas
-Garner appreciation from the public and recognize the contribution from the City of Vernon
Vvhat previous projects has the applicant successfully implemented?
With over 50 years of history in operating a successful nonprofit, GSGLA has completed a variety of
projects that demonstrate their capacity and effectiveness. A recent solid example of an extremely
successful undertaking is the regional consolidation of Councils that occurred in 2009. Six different
Girls Scout Council districts merged under the larger umbrella of GSGLA. Reducing administrative
duplication, leveraging existing resources, and increasing program capacity resulted from this regional
effort a national initiative in the Girl Scouting movement.
List any forseeable challenges that the applicant may encounter in the implementation of this proposal or in
general:
Ongoing efforts in Southeast Los Angeles will center on extending outreach to more girls in the area,
building on strong relationships with local schools and community organizations, and encouraging
parent leadership. These efforts are not significant barriers, but do represent the anticipated priorities
for implementation in Southeast Los Angeles.
Funding Recommendation
Fund this proposal?_ Yes
No Recommended Amount: l535,o0o
Suggested revision(s) to proposaufund amount, if applicable:
Funding will be directed to specific programs in the communities off the Vernon CommUNllf Fund
area. As a percentage of overall activity, the VCF area is relatively small, thus the recommendation
for project support instead of general operating support.
This recommended amount will cover the annual budget for assistance and grants for scouts in the
Southeast LA area, as well as a portion of the costs for staff associated with after-school programming
in the VCF area.
Staff reviewer:Anne-Marie Jones
Signed:Date: ol 123 t2016
General Applicant lnformation
@
@
Type of support | .Z o"n"r"| operating
requested: I l--. erolecUerogram
Brief Narrative description of the organization
Self Help Graphics' (SHG) mission is to drive lh6 creation of new work by Chicano and Latino artists through fine art printmaking and
multiple visual art forms. Self Help Graphics' vision is to be the preeminsnt conter for Latino art in printmaking, exhibition and training,
and to be a resourco for young and emerging artists.
Since its founding, SHG has servod as a vohicle for young pooplo in Boyle Heights to engage in the community, frnd thoir voico, and be
abl6 to oxpress themselves throuqh cultural and artistic activitios, all in a safe, welcoming environmenl located in thoir own neighborhood.
Public serving programs include: Art Para Hoy! Youth and Community art programs; Banio Mobilo Arts Studio (BMAS): and Public Art
Workshops.
On an annual basis through its comp.ehensivo arts and culture prcgramming, SHG reaches over 30,000 people throughout Los Angeles
County. The Art Para Hoy! Youth and Community art programs focus primarily on youth living in VCF areas, and 1400 youth participato
these programs alone on an annual basis. At their community events, 90 creative entrepreneurs have had ihe opportuniiy to host
'pop-up'shops. Additionally, 'l50 local artists have had tho opportunity to showcase th6ir work at 6xhibitions at Sslf Help Graphics in over
the course ofthe lasi year.
Organizational strengths:
-History and reputation as an artistic powerhouse in the community, integral to the Chicano Arl movement of the
1970s, and launching the careers of notable local and intemationally known artists
-The organization's artistic and programmatic vision has evolved to reflect the interests and societal changes that
impact youth today, including the integration of technology, devices, and digital arts, while still teaching and
providing space for their traditional strengths of professional printmaking and silk screening
-Strengthened administrative infraslructure, with a reinvigorated Board of Directors and an innovative formalized
leadership structure, using two energetic, complementary, co-directors. The organization is also participating in the
2-year Bloomberg Arts Management Program, with a focus on diversih/ing revenue, increasing BOD capacity, and
enhancing existing productive parlnerships.
-Grants from a diverse set offunders, such as California Community Foundation, Bank of America, James lrvine
Foundation, and MRP
-
Proposal Details
Specmc population(s) targeted by grant request (if applicable)
vouth and teensAge Hange:nlaFam y lype: _
Gender: n/a Military Status: n/a
Race/Ethnicity: Latino Sexual Orientation: n/a
Economic Status: n/a Other (specify):f
Description of the proposal to which funds would apply
(it no particular project is specified, please note ceneral Operating Suppo.t in this area)
General Operating Support
CosUBenerit:
There are a few methods for quantlfying the value of a S40,000 general operating
support grant. lf looking at the youth programming component, the VCF contribution, if
approved, equates to roughly $3o/participant.
Beneficiaries and/or
potential impact on the
non-prof iUgovem mental
landscape:
Self Help Graphics has a rich history in Boyle Heights and in the City of Los Angeles.
Supporting this mmmunity-based arts organization is low risk and has tremendous
benefit for youth and families in the area. SHG is widely recognized by arts institutions,
artists, nonprofit organizations, residents, and local elected officials as an innovative,
authentic and critical partner in promoting vibrant communities in the City.
oStaff Analysis
Documents reviewed
/ RroiutRs Form gg0 ldated: 06 / 30 t2014 )
/ Organizational Budget
/ Proposal Budget
How does the proposal align with the goals of the Fund?
SHG most closely aligns with the following VCF goals:
-To encourage and inspire positive social developmenl in Vernon and neighboring communities;
-To promote positive social development of children, youth, families and senior residents in Vernon and surrounding
areas;
-To strengthen and support non-profit organizations that benefit residents and neighborhoods
When this proposal is weighed against VCF eligibility criteria, the results are strongest in the following categories:
-Promote the health, safety and welfare of persons residing or working within the designated geographic areas;-Garner appreciation from the public and recognize the contribution from the City of Vernon
-Demonstrate capacity by the applicant organization to ably manage and achieve intended results in an effective and
efficient manner
What previous proJects has the applicant successfully implemented?
-Over the last 18 months, SHG successfully project managed significant repairs to the city-owned facility
where the SHG headquarters are located. The organization has moved back into the building and
re-opened their studios to local artists and residents. ln the interim, SHG focused on public workshops at
partner locations and the Barrio Mobile Arts Studio, which can take place in multiple locatjons.
-The Summer of Youth (S.O.Y.) Artista program is a five-week summer art workshop for youth aged 12 -18.
Youth are recruited from local youth groups, schools, and other community centers on the eastside of Los
Angeles. The program is offered free lo young people during summer breaks, when youth programming
and school-related activities are scarce in local neighborhoods. ln some instances, students have used the
work created in the program as part of their admission porfolios for LA County High School for the Arts.
List any forseeable challenges that the applicant may encounter in the implementation of this proposal or in
general:
A significant challenge for the organization in the future is permanent site acquisition of their
headquarters location. SHG has the majority of funding committed that would facilitate the purchase
of the city-owned property, but they are awaiting further guidance and approval from the relevant city
departments. There is some concern that available funding might expire if the City of Los Angeles
continues to delay its decision making and approval processes. lf that does indeed become the case,
SHG will continue to rent the space on the affordable long{erm lease that is already in place.
Funding Recommendation
Yes
Fund this proposal?
-No
Recommended Amount: | $40,000
Suggested revision(s) to proposaufund amount, if applicable:
At 1 1% of the organizational budget, the recommended amount of $40,000 is in keeping with common
foundation practice on appropriate grant levels, and is in line with the other grants that the
organization has received over the last several years.
Staff reviewer:Anne-Marie Jones
Signed:Date: 12 t22 t2015
General Applicant lnformation
@
@
Type of support
requested:
.2. General Operating
I-_. erolecuerogram
Brief Narrative description of the organization
The mission of the Los Angeles Center for Law and Justice (LACLJ) is "to fight for the rights of vulnerable
families and advocate for a more just legal system." The organization provides free legal services to clients
four main areas: domeslic violence, teen legal advocacy, immigration services, and access to justice (which
centered primarily on unrepresented parents in high-conflict custody cases).
Clienl Profile: 85% are womeni 85% live below the federal poverty line; 87olo are Latino; 74% are survivors of
domestic violence and sexual assault; 60% are immigrants; 33% are teens or young parenls. Because of the
challenges thal many of their clients face, LACLJ has incorporated a holistic, trauma-informed approach to
their legal services, which includes lhe integration of l\,tSW interns in the clients'legal team. lnlerns provide
psycho-education, social service referrals and court accompanimenl.
The ultimate goal is to help "build violence-free homes in order to build a stronger Southeast community
families are safe, stable and free from injuslice."
Organizational strengths:
-Strong reputation and history of successful impact litigation on behalf of the community. Early leaders of the organization
included Antonia Hernandez, now President of the California Community Foundation; Nancy Ramirez, current Los
Superior Court Commissioner; and the Hon. Georgina Tores Rizk, a judge on the Superior Court of Los Angeles
-Successful implementation of the most recent Strategic Plan, which included strengthening administrative systems to
increase organizational capacity, improving the diversification of funding sources, and adding in a more robust evaluation
component of their programming
-The inclusion of a client-focused supportive services component to the legal team of each client, which impacts a client's
capacity across a range of activities, from being able to adequately testify in court cases on their own behalf, to being able
maintain the positive outcomes from a restraining order without returning to an abusive living situation.
competent leadership team, and a staff of family law attorneys averaging nine years of experience
oProposal Details
Specmc population(s) targeted by grant request (if apdicable)
Age Range:Teens, Young Adults, Adults nlahamrly lype: _
Gender: Female Military Status: n/a
Race/Ethnicity: Latino Sexual Orientation: n/a
Economic status: low and very low-income Other (specify):survivors of domestic violence and sexual al
Description of the proposal to which funds would apply
(if no particular proiect is specified, please note General Operating Support in this area)
General Operating Support
CosUBenefit:
LACLJ will serve 485 clients in legal matters this year. The VCF contribution works out
to $103/client in direct services. ln addition to those clients, LACLJ anticipates that 500
children in client families will also receive benefit From the services provided.
Staff Analysis
Documents reviewed
/ nuoiytns Form 990 (dated:06 / 30 12014
/ Organizational Budget
/ Proposal Budget
Beneficiaries and/or
potential impact on the
nonfrofiUgovemmental
landscape:
LACLJ is a key piece in assuring that the justice system is accessible and serves the needs of
people who cannot afford representation. LACLJ has held county and state contracts to provide
services for many years, demonstrating the quality of services they provide. That, and their
ongoing relationships with civil rights leaders from the LA Iegalcommunity, indicates a low risk in
making this grant, with potential to make a significant contribution to residents in the VCF area.
How does the proposal align with the goals of the Fund?
ln terms of the goals of the VCF, the proposal from LACLJ most closely aligns with the following:
-To strengthen and supporl nonprofit organizations that benefit residents and
-To promote positive social development of children, youth, families and senior residents in Vernon and surrounding
areas
ln terms of eligibility criteria, the proposal from LACLJ is especially strong when assessed against the following:
-Promote the health, safety and welfaro of persons residing or working within the designated geographic areas
-Demonstrate a measurable benefit to residents of Vernon and surrounding areas
-Demonstrale capacity by the applicant organization to ably manage and achieve intended results in an effective and
efficient manner
What previous projects has the applrcant successfully implemented?
-ln 2003, LACLJ launched the only teen-centered legal services program in Los Angeles. Because of its
success, the program was expanded by a Department of Justice grant to specifically include teen survivors of
sexual assault.
-ln 2O11 , LACLJ was selected as one of seven projects selected statewide under the Sargent Shriver Civil
Counsel Act to provide free legal representation to low-income families in high-conflict custody disputes
List any forseeable challenges that the applicant may encounter in the implementation of this proposal or in
general:
There are no notable challenges in LACLJ's ability to carry out their mission, beyond the
commonplace issues that many nonprofits face in the Los Angeles area: the need is very high and
resources are limited.
Funding Recommendation
Fund this proposal?_ Yes
No
Recommended Amount: I S50.ooo
Suggested revision(s) to proposal/fund amount, if applicable:
The amount being recommended for general operating support is 2oh of the total operating budget. lt
is an appropriate amount in terms of standard funder practice, alignment with other grant funders for
this particular organization, and alignment with other VCF grants.
Staff reviewer Anne-Marie Jones
Signed:Date:12 121 12015
GRANT RECOMMENDATION FORM
General Applicant lnformation
@
@
Type of support
requested:
17. Generat Operating
l--. ProjecuProgram
Brief Narrative description of the organization
The Neighborhood Music School (NMS) was established in 1914 to provide quality, private music
instruction and performance opportunities to families living in Boyle Heights and the surrounding
communities. NMS currently offers low-cost private instruction in piano, violin, viola, cello,
percussion, guitar, trumpet, flute, clarinet, saxophone, and voice, however, classes for other
instruments can be added on an as needed basis. Over 350 students are engaged in weekly
instruction, with 100 of those students participating in the Student Scholarship Program, which
brings fees to as low as $1/week for qualifying students.
Organizational strengths:
1) A long-standing, excellent reputation - The organization has been recognized by various civic leaders within
the City of Los Angeles as a valued partner in enriching the cultural and artistic landscape of the community and
the city
2) High-quality music instruction/program services - Many of the instructors are professional musicians, in
addition to those who are on faculty at local music schools and universities
3) Active participation from Board members - Board members come from a variety of disciplines and bring their
areas of expertise to support the organization in several significant ways, including fundraising, donor cultivation,
and establishing ties with local universities to engage instructors and professionals
6) Consistent, solid management performance - Solid financial and management performance, with a history of
small annual surpluses, full enrollment, and the securing of a maior gift to establish an endowed fund in 2014
Proposal Oetails
populatjon(s) targeted
3-'18 years old
applicable)
nlaAge Range:
Gender: n/a
Family Type:
nlaMilitary Status:
Race/Ethnicity: Latino Sexual Orientation:
Economic status Low-lncome Other (specify):f
Description of the proposal to which funds would apply
(if no particular project is specifed, please note General Operating Support in this area)
General Operating Support
CosuBenefit:
The organization serves approximately 350 students/year. A $50,000
general operating grant is a contribution of approximately $140/student.
Beneficiaries and/or
potential impact on the
non-proliugovemmental
landscape:
The Neighborhood Music School is a local inslitution. Providing high-quality, affordable
music instruction in this community fills a significant pervasive gap in arts education in
underserved communities due to lack of funding in the public school system. NMS
provides a critical piece of a holistic education that would otherwise go unfulfilled for NMS
students.
-
Staff Analysis
Documents reviewed
/ nrotutRs Form 990 ldated. 02 t28 12014 \
/ Organizational Budget
_ Proposal Budget
How does the proposal align with the goals of the Fund?
ln terms of goals of the Vernon CommUNlTY Fund, this proposal most closely aligns with lhe following:
-To strenglhen and support non-profit organizations that benefit residents and neighborhoods;
-To promote positive social development of children, youth, families and seniors in Vernon and surrounding areas
ln terms of eligibility criteria, the proposal is very competitive when assessed against the following:
-Promote the health, safety and welfare of persons residing or working within the designaled geographic areas
-Demonstrate capacity by the applicant organizalion to ably manage and achieve results in an effective and
efficient manner
Vvhat previous projects has the applicant successfully implemented?
The applicant organization has been in operation for over 100 years in the Boyle Heights community.
NMS has operated uninterrupted since that time, becoming a nonprofit organization in '1933. Over
the course of various economic cycles in the last century, they have maintained full enrollment.
ln an earthquake in 1987, they successfully completed a large capital project to retrofit their school
facility, a historic Victorian home that now holds their administrative offices, I practice rooms and
recital space for students.
List any forseeable challenges that the applicant may encounter in the implementation of this proposal or in
general:
No significant challenges are anticipated with the implementation of this proposal, beyond the
standard challenges that many nonprofits arts organizations face in this current environment:
fundraising, maintaining quality services in the most efficient manner possible, and meeting ongoing
demand for affordable programs.
Funding Recommendation
Yes
Fund this proposal?
-No
Recommended Amount: l$50,000/ 1 year
Suggested revision(s) to proposaytund amount, if applicable:
The Executive Director informed JRG that the original request was intended to be $50,000/one year.
A former grant writer of the organization made an error while submitting the application and indicated
that it was for a 2-year period. A grant recommendation of $50,000 for one year aligns with
philanthropic best practices for general operating grants, with a maximum range of 10Yo - 15o/o of the
organizational budget.
Staff reviewer:Anne-Marie Jones
Signed:_ 0'1 . 23 . 20',t6Date: I I
Attachment 3
Form Grant Agreement
www.vernoncommunityfund.ort
(323)3sr-il98
On [INSERT DATE] the Vernon CommUNlTY Fund (Grantor] awarded a grant to [INSERT ORGANIZATIONI
(Grantee) in the amount of 5[INSERT AMOUNT] to support the following purposes: To support [tNSERT
oRGANtZATION MtSStON AND PROJECT DESCRtpTtONI.
Grantor and Grantee agree to the following terms and conditions of the grant:
1. Scope of Work:
Grantee shall use the grant funds solely for the purposes stated below, and Grantee shall repay to
Grantor any portion of the amount granted which is not used for those purposes. Any changes in the
purposes for which grant funds are spent must be approved in writing by Grantor before
implementation.
lrNsERT SCOPEI
2. Amount of Grant:
SIINSERT AMOUNT], payable upon the Vernon CommUNlTY Fund's receipt of this executed Grant
Agreement.
3. Conditions of Agreement:
Grantee agrees to the following conditions:
A. Reports. Grantee shall submit written reports to The Vernon CommUNtTY Fund as follows:
A narrative report describing in detail the use of the granted funds, compliance with the terms
of the grant and the progress made toward achieving the purposes of the grant. A financial
report detailing all expenditures resulting from the grant.
A copy of materials (if applicable) produced as part of the grant.
The schedule for such reports is:
lnterim report: IINSERT DATE]
Final report: IINSERT DATE]
Please submit your report using your FluidReview account. lf you have any questions about the grant
report, please reach out to Anne-Marie Jones at The Vernon CommUNlry Fund by email at
vernoncommuniMund@ci.vernon.ca.us orcall her at 323.351.1198.
O
Vernon CommUNITY Fund Grant Agreement | 2
B. Expenditure of Grant Funds. Any funds not expended in accordance with the terms of this agreement
must be returned to Grantor. Grantee shall not use any portion of the funds granted herein to engage in
any Erassroots or direct lobbying, to intervene in any political campaign on behalf of or in opposition to
any candidate for public office, to fund union activity, to induce or encourage violations of law or public
policy, to cause any improper private benefit to occur, nor to take any other action inconsistent with
Section 501(c)(3) of the lnternal Revenue Code.
C. PATRIOT Act. Grantee agrees that it will use the grant funds in compliance with all applicable anti-
terrorist financing and asset control laws, regulations, rules and executive orders, including but not
limited to the USA Patriot Act of 2001.
D. Return of Funds. lf Grantor, in its sole discretion, determines that Grantee violates or fails to carry out
any provision of this Agreement, Grantor may, in addition to any other legal remedies it may have,
refuse to make any further payments to Grantee, and Grantor may demand the return of all or part of
the unexpended grant funds, which the Grantee shall immediately repay to Grantor.
E. Records and Audits. Grantee must maintain these grant funds in a separate fund dedicated to
charitable purposes. A systematic accounting record shall be kept by Grantee of the receipt and expense
of such funds. Grantee shall retain original substantiating documents related to specific expenditures
and make these records available for Granto/s review upon request. Grantee shall be responsible for
maintaining adequate financial records of this grant.
F. No Further Obligations by Grantor. This grant is made with the understanding that Grantor has no
obligation to provide other or additional support or grants to Grantee.
G. Subgrantees. With regard to the selection of any subgrantees to carry out the purposes of this grant,
Grantee retains full discretion and control over the selection process, acting completely independently
of Grantor. There is no agreement, written or oral, by which Grantor may cause Grantee to choose any
particular subBrantee.
H. Licensing and Credentials. Grantee hereby agrees to maintain, in full force and effect, all required
governmental or professional licenses and credentials for itself, its facilities and for its employees and all
other persons engaged in work in conjunction with this agreement.
l. OrEanizational and Staff Changes. Grantee agrees to provide immediate written notice to Grantor if
significant changes or events occur during the term of this Agreement which could potentially impact
the progress or outcome of the grant, including, without limitation, changes in: a) the Grantee's
executive staff or key staff responsible for achieving the grant purposes, or b) losses in funding. ln the
event that Grantee ceases its operations, Grantee shall transfer any property purchased with the grant
funds to Grantor.
J. Liability, Disclaimers and lnsurance Requirements. Grantee hereby irrevocably and unconditionally
agrees, to the fullest extent permitted by law, to defend, indemnify and hold harmless Grantor, its
officers, directors, trustees, employees and agents, from and against any and all claims, liabilities, losses
and expenses (including reasonable attorneys'fees) directly, indirectly, wholly or partially arising from
or in connection with any act or omission of Grantee, its employees or agents, in applying for or
accepting the grant, in expending or applying the funds furnished pursuant to the grant or in carrying
Vernon CommUNlry Fund Grant Agreement | 3
out the program or project to be funded or financed by the grant, except to the extent that such claims,
liabilities, losses or expenses arise from or in connection with any act or omission of Grantor, its officers,
directors, trustees, employees or agents. Grantees receiving grants in the amount of S75,o0o or more
shall obtain from their insurance carriers certificates of insurance naming the city of Vernon as
additional insured.
K. ldentification of Grantor. Grant does not imply Grantor's sponsorship or endorsement. All of
Grantee's proposed external communications regarding Grantor or this grant, including approval of any
Grantor sponsorships, endorsements or use of the Granto/s logo, shall be submitted first to Grantor for
its review and approval. Grantor may request specific Vernon CommUN lW Fund branding provisions at
any time during the term of this Brant.
L. Entire Agreement. Grantor reserves the right to withhold or suspend payments of Brant funds if
Grantee fails to comply strictly with any of the terms and conditions of the Agreement. This Agreement
shall supersede any prior oral or written understandings or communications between the parties and
constitutes the entire agreement of the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof. This
Agreement may not be amended or modified, except in a written document signed by both Grantor and
Grantee.
lN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Grant Agreement effective on the day of.,20-.
IINSERT NAMEI, Grantee
Authorized Signature
Printed Name
Date
CITY OF VERNON, Grantor ATTEST:
Maria E. Ayala, City Clerk
Name: A. J. Wilson
Title: lnterim Citv Administrator
Date:
Title
By:
STAFF REPORT
CITY ADMINISTRATION
DATE:
TO:
FROM:
R.E:
February 17,2016
Honorable Members of the Vernon Comm
A.J. Wilson, Executive Director
Originator: Kristen Enomoto,
Grant Committee
Amendment No. I to the Yernon CommUNITY Fund Grant Agreement with
California Children's Academy
Recommendation
A. Find that the action proposed in this staff report is exempt under the Califomia
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) in accordance with Section 15061(bX3), the general
rule that CEQA only applies to projects that may have an effect on the environment.
B. Approve Amendment No. I to the December 22,2014 Vemon CommUNITY Fund Grant
Agreement with Califomia Children's Academy to authorize the reallocation of $40,000
of its Vemon CommUNITY Fund Grant toward the development of an infant/toddler
program, to extend the term of the grant to June 30, 2016, and to extend the deadline for
the final report to July 31,2016.
Background
Effective December 22,2014, the City of Vernon ("City") entered into a Vemon CommUNITY
Fund Grant Agreement ("Grant Ageement") with the Califomia Children's Academy C'CCA)
for the award of a grant to the CCA in the amount of $60,000 for a capital improvement plarning
process and general operating costs.
The development ofa capital improvement plan prepared by a qualified architect or engineer was
intended to assist the organization in prioritizing its capital needs and improve its ability to
obtain the necessary permitting and matching funds from the City of Los Angeles. However,
after further discussion and research by CCA, the capital improvements originally considered no
longer appear feasible.
Upon frrrther evaluation, CCA has determined a greater demand in the community for a fully
licensed center-based infant program. As such, CCA is requesting to reallocate the remaining
$40,000 of its VCF grant flrnds toward making the necessary changes to the existing classrooms
Page I of2
Administrator
and play yard, as well as puchasing cribs, bedding, and age-appropriate classroom items to
implement said program, to extend the term of the gant agreement to June 30, 2016, and to
extend the deadline for the final report to July 31, 2016. (See Attachment I - Califomia
Children's Academy Letter Dated JanuNy 26,2016)
City consultant Jemmott Rollins Group C'JRG) has reviewed the CCA request and has held
several follow-up discussions with the organization regarding its request. JRG has advised that
such requests are not uncommon in the grant making process, and is recommending approval of
the CCA request. (See Attachment 2 - Jemmott Rollins Group Memo Dated February 8,2016;
and Attachment 3 - Amendment No. I to the Vemon CommUNITY Fund Grant Agreement with
Califomia Children's Academy)
Fiscal Imnact
There is no fiscal impact associated with the reallocation ofexisting funds or the extension of the
grant tenn.
Attachment(s)
I . Califomia Children's Academy Letter dated January 26,2016
2. Jemmott Rollins Group Memo dated February 8, 2016
3. Amendment No. I to Grant Agreement with Califomia Children's Academy
Page2 of2
ATTACHMENT 1
CALIFORNIA
CFIILDREN'S
ACADEMY
EST 1971
January 26, 2016
Oty of Vernon
Vemon CommUN|TY Fund Grants committee
4305 S. Santa Fe Ave.
Vemon, CA 90058
Dear Members of the Grants Commlttee:
The intent of this lener is to respectfully request to repurpose the funds received from the vernon CommUNITY
Fund ln December 2014.
We spent approximately S2O.OOO on termite extermlnatlon, furnishings the play areas ln 4 classrooms, and an air
conditioner for the kltchen. Thankyou so much- what a dlfference it makesl
we have S40,0o0 remalning whidr we were to spend on development of a plan for cirpital improvements by a
quallfled archltect or engineer that would specifically prioriuze capltal improvements needed at our Early Learning
Center (ELC) campus located in Boyle Heights. while evaluating our needt we have found there to be a greater
demand in the communlty for a fully licensed center+ased infant program.
We would, therefore, like to propose an altemative plan to spend what is remaining. We would like to begin the
process of obtaining a new license for ELc to add an infanvtoddler program. currently, the Boyle HeiShts area is
@nsidered Priority Level 1, accordlnB to the County of Los Angeles Office of Child Care Needs tusessment 2013,
"subsidized child Development capacity foI Low-income wo*ing Families-2013". The number of low-inmmg
eliglble f"mllies with infants^oddlers needing chlldcare ln the lmmediate Boyle Heights area ls about 70O.
ln order to add such a program to ELC, we would need to make several changes to the exlstlng classrooms and play
yard, as well as purchase cribs, beddirg and related aglappropriate dassroom items. we plan to secure the
service6 of an early cilldhood Inhnt licensing consultant who would assess the facility and let us lnow what
specific chan8es must be made to accommodate the O -2 age group. The budget for the convelsion to an
lnfanvtoddler program ls attached.
we u/ould like to be done with mnstructlon and be able to submit our licensing applkation in April 2016.
Please let us know ifyou feel that this is a feasible alternative.
lf you have any questions or need more informatlon, please contad me.
Thankyou for your generosity and supporl
Slncerely,
Barbara shoii
VP Finance
323 2234373 x237
barbara@californiachildrensacademv.org
cc: Jemmott Rollins Group
2701 N. l\,lAl\l STRF-ET. LOS ANGELES, Cr\ 90031 . TEL 323-223-3313 FAX: 321-223-0q54
wrv',v.CaliforniaC)hi IdlensAr:ademy. or g
CALIFORNIA CHILDREN'S ACADEMY
PROJECTED COST OF ADDING INFANT/TODDLER PROGMM
1.26.16
Licensing Consultant
Licenses
Changing tables, sinks, countertops, cabinets
Fencing
Artificial turf for toddler yard
ConstructiorVplumbing
Cribs, linens, sheMng, room/yard equipment and fumishings
Total
$ 750
993
1,600
1,700
5,400
17,950
27,495
$ 55,888
ATTACHMENT 2
M EMORAN DU M
TO;
FROM:
RE:
DATE:
Vernon CommUNlry Fund Grant Committee
Fran Jemmott, JRG Grants Management Team
Request for Budget Modification and No-Cost Extension
February 8, 2015
Attached is a letter from the California Children's Academy requesting a budget modification to redirect
existing funds from planned capital project research to a new purpose. lf approved, the ending date for
the grant would change from December 31, 2015 to April 30, 2016.
This is the first instance for VCF where a grantee is making a request for a no-cost extension and to use a
portion of their grant for an objective that differs from the oriBinal application. These requests occur in
other philanthropy organizations and is not out of the ordinary. Depending on the amount of
unexpended funding and the lenBth of the extension, most of these requests are handled by program
staff. ln that the request from the California Children's Academy is for $50,000 - more than the amount
of many full grants subsequently made to many applicant organizations - JRG believes the VCF Grant
Committee ought to approve the transaction.
Grant Historv:
On November 12, 2014 the vernon CommUN|TY Fund (Grantor) awarded a grant to the California
Children's Academy (Grantee) in the amount of 550,000 for one (1) year to support the California
Children's Academy, an organization which helps families become financially independent by providing
affordable child care to low income families.
Funding from the Vernon CommllNlTY Fund will support the ColiJomio Children's Acodemy's copitol
improvement plonning process ond generol operoting costs.
As a condition of this grant, the grantee must provide demographic data on the number of children
served from the cities of Bell, Boyle Heights, Commerce, Huntington Park, Maywood, Vernon and
unincorporated East Los Angeles in the interim and final grant reports.
Current Reouest:
The California Children's Academy is housed in a building owned by the City of Los Angeles. They have
approved occupancy to operate a child care program for families residing in the Boyle Heights area.
Their original request for funds to undertake capital improvements would have upgraded the facilities
and added better lighting, play space and other improvements. After research and implementing the
most ur8ent improvements (plumbing and termite abatement), the grantee learned that the City of Los
Angeles would not provide matching funds for additional improvements. Also in researching facilities
and funding, the grantee learned of the dire shortage of infant and toddler child care programs for low-
income working parents.
lnstead of moving forward with a more rigorous capital improvement pro.iect, The California Children's
Academy now proposes to use their core operating grant from VCF to convert existing space from a
classroom environment for preschoolers to a nursery and infant day care environment to meet a
pressing community need. The grantee is in full compliance with reporting and other grant conditions.
This request requires a no-cost extension ofthe grant performance period through April 30, 2015. The
grantee fully expects to have the special requirements needed for the lnfant and Toddler Center and to
have expended the funds by April 3oth, 2016. The licensing process would take an additional two
months to complete and their hope is to have the Center operational by June 30, 2016.
Recommendation:
JRG recommends approval of the request for a no-cost extension in that the original grant was given for
core operating support, and the changes planned do not substantially alter the original intent of the
grant.
ATTACHMENT 3
AMENDMENT NO. 1 TO THE VERNON COMMUNITY FUND GRANT AGREEMENT
WITH CALIFORNIA CHILDREN'S ACADEMY
This Amendment ("Amendment No. l") to that certain Grant Agreement for an award of
a grant in the amount of$60,000 for a capital improvement planning process and general
operating costs, dated December 22,2014, (the "Agreement"), is made as of
February 17,2016, by and between the Vemon CommUNITY Fund on behalf of the City of
Vemon, (the "Grantor"), and the Califomia Children's Academy, (the "Grantee").
WHEREAS, the Grantor and Grantee are parties to a wriften Agreement dated December
22,2014, for the award of a grant to the Grantee in the amount of $60,000 for a capital
improvement planning process and general operating costs (the "Agreement"); and
WHEREAS, Grantor and Grantee mutually desire to amend the Agreement to authorize
the reallocation of $40,000 of Grantees' Vemon CommUNITY Fund Grant toward the
development ofan infant/toddler program, to extend the term ofthe grant to June 30, 2016, and
to extend the deadline for the final reporttoJuly3l,2016. A copy of the correspondence dated
Jarruary 26,2016, provided by Grantee is attached hereto as Exhibit A.
NOW, THEREFORE, the parties to this Amendment No. I agree as follows:
1. The Agreement is hereby amended to reallocate S40,000 of the Califomia
Children's Academy Vernon CommUNITY Fund Grant toward the development of an
infant/toddler progam, the Ageement has been extended to June 30, 2016, and the deadline for
the final report has been extended to July 31,2016.
2. Except as expressly modified by this Amendment No. l, all provisions of the
Agreement shall remain in full force and effect.
3. The provisions of this Amendment No. I shall constitute the entire agreement of
the parties with respect to the subject matter included in this Amendment No. I and shall
supersede any other agrcement, understanding, or arrangement, whether written or oral, between
the parties with respect to the subject matter of this Amendment No. 1.
4. The person or persons executing this Amendment No. I on behalf of each party
warants and represents that he or she has the authority to execute this Amendment No. I on
behalfofthat party, and has the authority to bind that party to the performance of its obligations
hereunder.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have sigrred this Amendment No. I as of the date
stated in the introductory clause.
lsrGNAruRES FOLLOW ON NEXT PAGEI
-l-
GRANTEE
CALIFORNIA CHILDREN'S ACADEMY
Authorized Signature
Printed Name
GRANTOR
CITY OF VERNON
By:
Name: A.J. Wilson
Title: Interim Citv Administrator
Date:
Date
ATTEST:
Maria E. Ayal4 City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Hema Patel, City Attomey
-2-
CALIFORNIA
CHILDREN,S
ACADEMY
ESr. lr1
January 25, 2016
Clty ofVernon
Vemon CommUNffY Fund Grants Committe€
4305 S. Santa Fe Ave.
Vemon, CA 90058
Dear Members of the Grants Commlttee:
The intent of this lener is to respectfully reguest to repurpose the funds received from the Vemon CommUNlTY
Fund ln December 2014.
We spent approximately S2O,OOO on termite extermlnatlon, furnishings the play areas ln 4 classrooms, and an air
conditioner for the kltchen. Thankyou so mucJl- what a dtfierenc€ lt makesl
we have 540,000 remalninS which we were to spend on development of a plan for capital improvements by a
qualtfled archltect or engineer that would specifically priorltlze caplral improvements needed at our Early Learnlng
C€nter (ELC) campus located ln Boyle Helghts. While e{raluatlng our needt we have found there to be a Sreater
demand in the community for a fully licensed centeriased infant program.
we would, thereforg llke to propos€ an altemative plan to spend what is remalninS. we would like to begin the
proc€ss of obtaining a neu, license for ELC to add an infunvtoddler program. Currently, the Boyle Hei8hts area is
considered Priority Level 1, according to the County of Los Angeles Office of Child Care Needs Assessm€nt 201j1,
"Subsidized Child Development capacity for Lowincome workinS Families-2013". The number of low-income,
ellglble famllies with infants^oddlers needlng chlldcare ln the lmmediate Boyle Heights area ls about 70O.
ln order to add sudr a program to ELC, we would need to make s€n eral changes to the existing classrooms and play
yard, as well as purcfiase cribs, bedding and related ageappropriate dassroom ltems. we plan to secure the
seMces of an early chlldhood inhnt licensing consultant u,ho would assess the facillty and let us know what
speclflc changes must be made to accommodate the O -2 age group. Ihe budget for the conversion to an
lnfanvtoddler program ls attached.
we would like to be done with constructlon and be able to submit our licenslng appllcation ln April 2016.
Please let us know ifyou feel that thls ls a feasible alternative.
lf you have any questions or need more informallon, pleas€ contact me.
Thank you for your generoslty and support
Slncerely,
Barbara Sho.li
VP Finance
323 223-3313 \237
barbara@califomiachildrensacrdemy.ors
cc: Jemmott Rollins Group
2701 N. MAf.\l STREET . LOS ANGELES. CA 9003I , TEL: 323-223-33 l3 FAX: 323-223-0954
rvrvrv.Califom iaC)hi IdlensAcademy. olg
CALIFORNIA CHILDREN'S ACADEMY
PROJECTED COST OF ADDING INFANT/TODDLER PROGRAM
'1.26.16
Licensing Consultant
Licenses
Changing tables, sinks, counterlops, cabinets
Fencing
Artificial turf for toddler yard
Constructioryplumbing
Cribs, linens, shelving, room/yard equipment and fumishings
Total
750
993
1,600
1,700
5,400
17,950
27,495
$ 55,888