The URL can be used to link to this page

2018-05-16 Vernon Community Fund Grant Committee Agenda PacketPage 1 California Public Records Act ("PRA"): In compliance with the PRA, the documents pertaining to agenda items, including attachments, which are presented to the City Council in open session are available for public inspection. They may be inspected during regular business hours in the Office of the City Clerk at Vernon City Hall, 4305 Santa Fe Avenue; Vernon, California 90058, no appointment necessary, and on the City’s website at www.cityofvernon.org. Americans with Disabilities Act (“ADA”): In compliance with the ADA, if you need special assistance to participate in the meeting, please contact the Office of the City Clerk 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. Agenda City of Vernon Regular Vernon CommUNITY Fund Grant Committee Meeting Wednesday, May 16, 2018, 10:00 AM City Hall, Council Chamber 4305 Santa Fe Avenue Vernon, California Leticia Lopez, Chairperson Juliet Goff, Vice Chairperson Julia Juarez, Committee Member Michael Gavina, Committee Member Sandra Villarreal, Committee Member Steve Veres, Committee Member Steven Froberg, 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. PRESENTATION 1.City Administration Vernon CommUNITY Fund Grantee Presentation - Self Help Graphics Presentation by: Joel Garcia, Co-Director Recommendation: No action required by the Vernon CommUNITY Fund Grant Committee. This is a presentation 1 Regular Vernon CommUNITY Fund Grant Committee Meeting Agenda May 16, 2018 Page 2 only. MINUTES 2.City Clerk Minutes of the Regular Vernon CommUNITY Fund Grant Committee Meeting held on November 8, 2017 Recommendation: A. Receive and File Grant Committee Minutes 11-08-17 3.City Clerk Minutes of the Regular Vernon CommUNITY Fund Grant Committee Meeting held on February 21, 2017 Recommendation: A. Receive and File Grant Committee Minutes 02-21-2018 GRANT AWARDING 4.City Administration Award of Fiscal Year 2017/2018 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”) because it is a government fiscal activity that will not result in direct or indirect physical changes in the environment, and therefore does not constitute a “project” as defined by CEQA Guidelines section 15378. And even if such action were a “project,” it would be exempt from CEQA review 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 B. Award Fiscal Year 2017/2018 Docket III grants totaling $110,000 to the three applicants identified below at the amounts recommended: Applicant: California Latino Leadership Institute Original Amount Requested: $15,000 Amount Recommended: $15,000 Proposed Term: 1 year Applicant: Libros Schmibros* Original Amount Requested: $50,000 2 Regular Vernon CommUNITY Fund Grant Committee Meeting Agenda May 16, 2018 Page 3 Amount Recommended: $35,000 Proposed Term: 1 year *Returning Grantee Applicant: Los Angeles Family Housing* Original Amount Requested: $75,000 Amount Recommended: $60,000 Proposed Term: 1 year *Returning Grantee 1. Grant Review Committee Transmittal Report - FY 2017/2018 Docket III 2. Grant Application Summaries - FY 2017/2018 Docket III 3. Form Grant Agreement DISCUSSION ITEMS AND POSSIBLE DIRECTIVES TO STAFF 5.City Administration Vernon CommUNITY Fund Grant Committee Discussion Regarding Repeat Grant Applicants Recommendation: A. Find that the actions recommended in this staff report do not constitute a “project” pursuant to Section 15378(b)(2) of the Guidelines to the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) because such recommendations constitute an administrative activity; and even if the proposed actions did constitute a project, it would be exempt from 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 B. Discuss and direct staff regarding potential limits to the number of times that an organization may submit an application for a Vernon CommUNITY Fund (“VCF”) Direct Service Grant after receiving a grant award from the VCF. NEW BUSINESS 6.City Administration Vernon CommUNITY Fund Direct Service Grant Guidelines Recommendation: A. Find that the approval of the Vernon CommUNITY Fund Direct Service Grant Guidelines is exempt under the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) because it is an administrative activity that will not result in direct or indirect physical changes in the environment and, therefore, does not constitute a “project” as defined by CEQA Guidelines section 15378. And, even if such action were a “project”, it would be exempt from CEQA review in accordance with Section 15061(b)(3), the general rule that CEQA only applies to projects that may have an effect on the 3 Regular Vernon CommUNITY Fund Grant Committee Meeting Agenda May 16, 2018 Page 4 environment; and B. Approve and adopt the proposed Direct Service Grant Guidelines under which future direct service grant applicants will be evaluated, expanding upon the existing framework of criteria established by the Vernon Municipal Code. 1. VCF Direct Service Grant Guidelines 7.City Administration Vernon CommUNITY Fund Pilot Scholarship Program Guidelines Recommendation: A. Find that the Vernon CommUNITY Fund “Pilot” Scholarship Program Guidelines proposed in this staff report is exempt under the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) because it is an administrative activity that will not result in direct or indirect physical changes in the environment and, therefore, does not constitute a “project” as defined by CEQA Guidelines section 15378. And, even if such action were a “project”, it would be exempt from CEQA review 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 B. Approve and adopt the proposed Vernon CommUNITY Fund (“VCF”) Scholarship Program Guidelines for the VCF Pilot Scholarship Program, with implementation of said guidelines subject to amendment of Article XX, Sections 2.165 and 2.166, of the Vernon Municipal Code. 1. VCF Pilot Scholarship Program Guidelines ORAL REPORTS Brief reports on activities, other brief announcements, and directives to staff. Next Regular Meeting: Wednesday, August 15, 2018 at 10:00 a.m. 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 10th day of May 2018. By: ________________________________ Maria E. Ayala City Clerk 4 Vernon Community Fund Grant Committee Agenda Item Report Agenda Item No. COV-108-2018 Submitted by: Diana Figueroa Submitting Department: City Administration Meeting Date: May 16, 2018 SUBJECT Vernon CommUNITY Fund Grantee Presentation - Self Help Graphics Presentation by: Joel Garcia, Co-Director Recommendation: No action required by the Vernon CommUNITY Fund Grant Committee. This is a presentation only. Backgroud: Self Help Graphics (SHG) fosters community engagement and personal expression through cultural and artistic activities provided to families living in Boyle Heights and surrounding communities. The mission of SHG is to drive the creation of new work by Chicano and Latino artists through multiple visual art forms. As a great resource for young and emerging artists, SGH has a vision to be the preeminent center for Latino art in printmaking, exhibition and training. The organization was awarded a Vernon CommUNITY Fund grant in the amount of $40,000 in February of 2016 in order to advance their important work. Fiscal Impact: None. ATTACHMENTS  5 MINUTES OF THE RESCHEDULED REGULAR VERNON COMMUNITY FUND GRANTCOMMITTEEMEETINGOFTHE CITY OF VERNON HELD WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8,2017,AT 10:00A.M. IN THE CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBER,LOCATEDAT 4305SANTA FE AVENUE, VERNON, CALIFORNIA MEMBERS PRESENT:Juliet Goff,Steven Froberg, Leticia Lopez, Julia Juarez, and Sandra Villarreal MEMBERS ABSENT:Michael Gavina and Steve Veres ChairpersonGoffcalled the meeting to order at 10:06a.m. and also led the flag salute. Deputy City Clerk Matthew Ceballos announced that there were no changes to the agenda. PUBLIC COMMENT ChairpersonGoffannounced that this was the time allotted for public commentand 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 provided. PRESENTATION 1.Vernon CommUNITY Fund Grantee Presentation –East Los Angeles Women’s Center Presented by: Barbara Kappos, Executive Director of the East Los Angeles Women’s Center Barbara Kappos, Executive Director of the East Los Angeles Women’s Center,provided an oral presentation. Chair Goff spoke about visiting the locationand continuingtoattend events. 2.Vernon CommUNITY Fund Grantee Presentation –Opportunity Fund Presented by: Robert Zapata, Community Development Officer for the Opportunity Fund Robert Zapata, Community Development Officer for the Opportunity Fund, provided a PowerPoint presentation. Chair Goff inquired as to what the small business loan was secured against;Mr. Zapata responded that the loanwas unsecuredwith no collateral. Mr. Zapatawent into detail abouthow thesmall business owner successfully utilized and managed the loan. Chair Goff and Member Juarez expressed the desire to have more grant awardees provide presentations of how the funds were expended. GRANT AWARDING 3.Award of Fiscal Year 2017/2018 Docket I 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”) because it is a government fiscal activity that will not result in direct or indirect physical changes in the environment, and therefore does not constitute a “project” as defined by CEQA Guidelines 6 Rescheduled Regular Vernon CommUNITY Fund Grant CommitteeMeeting Minutes November 8,2017 Page 2of 4 section 15378. And even if such action were a “project,” it would be exempt from CEQA review 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 B.Award Fiscal Year 2017/2018 Docket I grants totaling $100,000 to the four applicants identified below at the amounts recommended: Applicant Original Amount Requested Amount Recommended Proposed Term Huntington Park Youth Football and Cheer Association $20,000 $10,000 1 year Muscular Dystrophy Association $10,000 $10,000 1 year Variety Boys & Girls Club $50,000 $50,000 1 year Weingart East LA (2nd)$70,000 $30,000 1 year Fran Jemmott, Jemmott-Rollins Group, introduced new Jemmott-Rollins Groupstaff to the Commission and provided a brief overview ofthe Grant Fund requests. Chair Goff spoke in depth about grant award recognition and the order of business in which grants are to be approved. Ms. Jemmott reported on the first applicant, Huntington Park Youth Football and Cheer Association. A dialogue ensuedbetween the staff and Committee regarding participation, the possibility of increasingthe funding to cover allof the enrolled in the program, and the potential risk if more funds are given. The Committee came to a consensus to revisit this applicant at the end of the item. Ms. Jemmottreported on the secondapplicant,Muscular Dystrophy Association. A dialogue ensued between staff and the Committee regarding the funding of service area families, notification, and program details. The Committee came to a consensus to hear the reports of the remaining recommended grant application and vote on them one by one after all were heard. Evan Holland, Jemmott-Rollins Group,reported on the third proposed grant, Variety Boys & Girls Club. Ms. Hollandreported on the fourth proposed grant, Weingart East LA (2nd). A dialogue ensued between staff and the Committeeregarding the previousgrant awards given to Weingart East LA. The Committee revisited the beginning of the grant docket, a lengthy dialogue ensued about how recognition would be exhibited,specific in the grant agreement, and updated language in a grant letter emphasizingrecognition of the Committee. Public Comment Melissa Ybarra,resident, spoke about the Huntington Park Youth Football and Cheer Association and urged the Committee to pass the grant funding amount. It was moved byJuarezand secondedby Froberg to approvethe following revised docket: 7 Rescheduled Regular Vernon CommUNITY Fund Grant CommitteeMeeting Minutes November 8,2017 Page 3of 4 Huntington Park Youth Football and Cheer Association $20,000 Muscular Dystrophy Association $10,000 Variety Boys & Girls Club $35,000 Weingart East LA (2nd)$35,000 Motion carried, 5-0. Goff: Yes Gavina: Absent Villarreal: Yes Veres: Absent Froberg: Yes Juarez: Yes Lopez: Yes DISCUSSION ITEMS ANDPOSSIBLE DIRECTIVES TO STAFF 4.Vernon CommUNITY Fund Scholarship Program Subcommittee Discussion Regarding Implementation of Scholarship “Pilot” Program Recommendation: A.Hold a discussion to receive congruent direction from the Vernon CommUNITY Fund (“VCF”) Grant Committee onthe recommendation of the VCF Scholarship Subcommittee to proceed with a “Pilot” Scholarship Program. Administrative Analyst Diana Figueroa reported on the proposed. Evelyn Diaz, Literacy Program Manager, spoke about the Commerce Scholarship program and how it is translatable to the Vernon CommUNITY Fund Scholarship “Pilot” Program. A lengthy dialogue ensued between staff and the Committee regarding the amount of funds studentswould receive, funding fluctuations, formulas, service areas, and other budgetary concerns. The Committee came to a consensus to bring a formal recommendation back. NEW BUSINESS 5.Report on Fiscal Year 2016/2017 Vernon CommUNITY Fund Grant Committee Activity and Fiscal Year 2017/2018 Vernon CommUNITY Fund Status Recommendation: A.Find that receiving this report on Vernon CommUNITY Fund Fiscal Year 2016/2017 activity and Fiscal Year 2017/2018 status is exempt from California Environmental QualityAct (“CEQA”) review, because it is an administrative action that will not result in direct or indirect physical changes in the environment, and therefore does not constitute a “project” as defined by CEQA Guidelines section 15378; and B.Receive and file this report, as it is being provided for informational purposes only. Analyst Figueroa provided a report on the proposed. It was moved byLopezand seconded byVillarrealto receive and file this report. Goff: Yes Gavina: Absent Villarreal: Yes Veres:Absent 8 Rescheduled Regular Vernon CommUNITY Fund Grant CommitteeMeeting Minutes November 8,2017 Page 4of 4 Froberg: Yes Juarez: Yes Lopez: Yes ORAL REPORTS 6.Brief reports on activities, other brief announcements, and directives to staff. 7.Next regular meeting: February 21, 2018 With no further business, Chairperson Goffadjourned the meeting at 12:08p.m. ________________________ Leticia Lopez Chairperson ATTEST: _________________________ Maria E. Ayala, CMC Secretary 9 MINUTES OF THE REGULAR VERNON COMMUNITY FUND GRANT COMMITTEE MEETINGOF THE CITY OF VERNON HELD WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21,2018IN COUNCIL CHAMBER OF CITY HALL LOCATED AT 4305 SANTA FE AVENUE, VERNON, CALIFORNIA MEMBERS PRESENT:Leticia Lopez,Juliet Goff,,Michael Gavina, Julia Juarez, and Steve Veres MEMBERS ABSENT:Steven Froberg and Sandra Villarreal CALL TO ORDER & FLAGSALUTE Chairperson Goff called the meeting to order at 10:06 a.m. and also led the flag salute. CHANGES TO THE AGENDA Deputy City Clerk Matthew Ceballos announced that there were no changes to the agenda. PUBLIC COMMENT Chairperson Goff 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 provided. ELECTION 1. Election of Chairperson and Vice Chairperson to serve until the next annual election Recommendation: A. Find that election of chairperson and vice chairperson does not constitute a “project” pursuant tosection 15378(b)(2) of the Guidelines to the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”), because it constitutes an administrative activity; and even if the adoption of the proposed resolution did constitute a project, it would be exempt from 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 B. Elect one of its members as Chairperson for a one year term; and C. Elect one of its membersas Vice Chairperson for a one year term. Chair Goff inquiredif anyone was interested in the Chair or Vice Chair Position. A dialogue ensued between the Committee and Staff about the procedure of electing a Chair and Vice Chair It was moved by Gavina and seconded by Juarez to elect Leticia Lopez as Chairperson for a one year term. Motion carried, 4-0. Goff: Yes Gavina: Yes Villarreal: Absent Veres: Absent Froberg: Absent Juarez: Yes 10 Rescheduled Regular Vernon CommUNITY Fund Grant Committee Meeting Minutes February 21, 2018 Lopez: Yes It was moved by Juarez and seconded by Gavina to electJuliet Goff as Vice Chairperson for a one year term. Motion carried, 4-0. Goff: Yes Gavina: Yes Villarreal: Absent Veres: Absent Froberg: Absent Juarez: Yes Lopez: Yes PRESENTATION 2.Vernon CommUNITY Fund Grantee Presentation –Los Angeles Community GardenCouncil Recommendation: Julie Beals, Executive Director of the Los Angeles Community Garden Council, will deliver apresentation on the organization’s use of Vernon CommUNITY Funds for the betterment of the local community. Diana Campos, Representative of the Los Angeles Community Garden Council, provided a PowerPoint Presentation. Vice Chair Goff spoke about wanting to attendtheevent and had technical questions, Ms. Camposresponded accordingly. Member Veres joined the meeting at 10:10 a.m. 3.Vernon CommUNITY Fund Grantee Presentation –Jovenes, Inc. Recommendation: Andrea Marchetti, Executive Director of Jovenes, Inc., and colleague, Kelsee Viano, will deliver apresentation on the organization’s use of Vernon CommUNITY Funds for the betterment of the local community. Andrea Marchetti, Executive Director of Jovenes, Inc.,provided aPowerPoint Presentation. Vice Chair Goff inquired about capital grants application and the next steps involved,Mr. Marchettiiexplained the next steps. Member Veres spoke about homelessness and food security among college students. Fran Jemmott,Jemmott Rollins Group, spoke to the program details, Mr. Marchetti responded with details of the program and future plans. 4.Vernon CommUNITY Fund Grantee Presentation –Libros Schmibros Recommendation: Adam Somers, Director of Development for Libros Schmibros, will deliver a presentation on theorganization’s use of Vernon CommUNITYFunds for the betterment of the local community. Adam Somers, Director of Development for Libros Schmibros, provided a Video Presentation and spoke about program details. 11 Rescheduled Regular Vernon CommUNITY Fund Grant Committee Meeting Minutes February 21, 2018 Member Veres inquired about the differences between City Libraries and Libros Schmibros, Mr. Somers answered his questions. A lengthy dialogue ensued between the Committee and Staff regarding the different program details. MINUTES 5.Minutes of the Regular Vernon CommUNITY Fund Grant Committee Meeting held onNovember 16, 2016 Recommendation: A. Receive and File 6.Minutes of the Regular Vernon CommUNITY Fund Grant Committee Meeting held onFebruary 15, 2017 Recommendation: A. Receive and File 7.Minutes of the Special Vernon CommUNITY Fund Grant Committee Meeting held onJune 13, 2017 Recommendation: A. Receive and File It was moved by Veres and seconded by Gavina to Receive and File the Minutes of the Vernon CommUNITYFund Grant Committee Meeting held on November 16, 2016, February 15, 2017, and June 13, 2017. Motion carried, 5-0. Goff: Yes Gavina: Yes Villarreal: Absent Veres: Yes Froberg: Absent Juarez: Yes Lopez: Yes GRANT AWARDING 8.Award of Fiscal Year 2017/2018 Docket II Vernon CommUNITY Fund Grants Recommendation: A. Find that the award of the grants proposed in this staff report is exempt under the CaliforniaEnvironmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) because it is a government fiscal activity that will not result in direct or indirect physical changes in the environment, and therefore does not constitute a “project” as defined by CEQA Guidelines section 15378. And even if such action were a “project,” it would be exempt from CEQA review 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 B. Award Fiscal Year 2017/2018 Docket II grants totaling $100,428.75 to the four applicants identified below at the amounts recommended: Applicant: CASA 0101 Original Amount Requested: $40,000.00 Amount Recommended: $20,000.00 12 Rescheduled Regular Vernon CommUNITY Fund Grant Committee Meeting Minutes February 21, 2018 Proposed Term: 1 year Applicant: Latino Equity Alliance Original Amount Requested: $18,428.75 Amount Recommended: $18,428.75 Proposed Term: 1 year Applicant: Neighborhood Music School Association (2nd) Original Amount Requested: $50,000.00 Amount Recommended: $30,000.00 Proposed Term: 1 year Applicant: Plaza Community Services (2nd) Original Amount Requested: $100,000.00 Amount Recommended: $32,000.00 Proposed Term: 1 year Ms.Jemmott introduced her staff and provided a brief overview of the docket. Evan Holland, Jemmott Rollins Group, reported on first grant applicant, CASA 0101. Vice Chair Goff inquired about how the fundswould be spent, Ms. Holland responded accordingly. A dialogue ensued between the Committee and Staff regarding the program functions, details, and service base. Vice Chair Goff spoke about the recognition piece andreviewedthe reason for recognition of the CommUNITY Fund, Administrative Analyst Diana Figueroa responded to the technical issues regarding recognition. Member Veres spoke about the organization and how they operate. It was moved by Veres and seconded by Juareztoaward the applicant identified below at the amount recommended: Applicant: CASA 0101 Amount: $20,000.00 Proposed Term: 1 year. Motion carried, 5-0. Goff: Yes Gavina: Yes Villarreal: Absent Veres: Yes Froberg: Absent Juarez: Yes Lopez: Yes Ms. Jemmott reported on the second grant applicant, Latino Equity Alliance. A dialogue ensued between the Committee and Staff regarding thepurpose and use of the funds. It was moved by Veres and seconded by Lopez toaward the applicant identified below at the amount recommended: Applicant: Latino Equity Alliance Amount: $18,428.75 Proposed Term: 1 year Motion carried, 5-0. 13 Rescheduled Regular Vernon CommUNITY Fund Grant Committee Meeting Minutes February 21, 2018 Goff: Yes Gavina: Yes Villarreal: Absent Veres: Yes Froberg: Absent Juarez: Yes Lopez: Yes Ms. Holland reported on the third grant applicant, Neighborhood Music School Association (2nd) ViceChair Goff inquired about the previous amount awarded to the applicant.Ms. Hollandrespondedwith the figure of $50,000. Member Veres inquired about the class structure of the program and how the funds were to be used.Ms. Holland noted that the applicant was trying to cover the cost of group class and scholarships. A dialogue ensued between staff and the Committee regarding the service base, class structure, funding, and budget details. It was moved by Veres and seconded by Lopez toaward the applicant identified below at the amount recommended with contingency: Applicant: Neighborhood MusicSchool Association (2nd) Amount: $30,000.00, Contingent on the grant funds be allocated as follows: $25,000 for scholarships, with recognition piece. $5,000 for administrative support. Proposed Term: 1 year Motion carried, 5-0. Goff: Yes Gavina: Yes Villarreal: Absent Veres: Yes Froberg: Absent Juarez: Yes Lopez: Yes Vice Chair Goff wanted an item on the next meeting agenda to discuss a more strategic approach to granting funds.A dialogue ensued with Staff and the Committee regarding howthey should proceed. Ms. Jemmott reported on the fourth grant applicant, Plaza Community Services (2nd) A dialogue ensued between staff and the Committee regarding the applicant’s budget and program details. It was moved by Veres and seconded by Gavina toaward the applicant identified below at the amount recommended: Applicant: Plaza Community Services (2nd) Original Amount Requested: $100,000.00 Amount Recommended: $32,000.00 Proposed Term: 1 year Motion carried, 5-0. Goff: Yes Gavina: Yes 14 Rescheduled Regular Vernon CommUNITY Fund Grant Committee Meeting Minutes February 21, 2018 Villarreal: Absent Veres: Yes Froberg: Absent Juarez: Yes Lopez: Yes Member Veres left the meeting at 11:46 a.m. NEW BUSINESS 9.Vernon CommUNITY Fund “Pilot” Scholarship Program Recommendation: A. Find that the program proposed in this staff report is exempt under the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) because it is an administrative activity that will not result in direct or indirect physical changes in the environment and, therefore, does not constitute a “project” as defined by CEQA Guidelines section 15378. And, even if such action were a “project”, it would be exempt from CEQA review 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 B. Approve the VCF Scholarship Subcommittee’s recommendation to proceed with a Vernon CommUNITY Fund (“VCF”) “Pilot” Scholarship Program and designate an amount of $20,000 in Fiscal Year 2018/2019 to kick start the program –which sumwould be drawn from the direct service grantfund allotment. Any monetary allotment for the Scholarship Program would be contingent upon City Council’s approval to allocate funds to the Vernon CommUNITY Fund in the upcoming years; and C. Approve the VCF Scholarship Subcommittee’s recommended Pilot Scholarship Program Timeline; and D. Authorize the VCF Scholarship Subcommittee, Jemmott Rollins Group (“JRG”), and City staff to collaborate and proceed with the implementation of the appropriate administrative components to facilitate the VCF “Pilot” Scholarship Program. Analyst Figueroareported on the proposed. It was moved by Gavina and seconded by Lopez to approve the VCF Scholarship Subcommittee’s recommendation to proceed with a Vernon CommUNITY Fund (“VCF”) “Pilot” Scholarship Program and designate an amount of $20,000 in Fiscal Year 2018/2019 to kick start the program –which sum would be drawn from the direct service grant fund allotment. Any monetary allotment for the Scholarship Program would be contingent upon City Council’s approval to allocate funds to the Vernon CommUNITY Fund in the upcoming years, and approve the VCF Scholarship Subcommittee’s recommended Pilot Scholarship Program Timeline, and Authorize the VCF Scholarship Subcommittee, Jemmott Rollins Group (“JRG”), and City staff to collaborate and proceed with the implementation of the appropriate administrative components to facilitate the VCF “Pilot” Scholarship Program.Motion carried, 5-0. Goff: Yes Gavina: Yes Villarreal: Absent Veres: Yes Froberg: Absent Juarez: Yes Lopez: Yes ORAL REPORTS Brief reports on activities, other brief announcements, and directives to staff. 15 Rescheduled Regular Vernon CommUNITY Fund Grant Committee Meeting Minutes February 21, 2018 Senior Deputy City Attorney Brian Byun requested further clarification on the earlier proposed agenda item from Vice Chair Goff. Vice Chair Goff requested greater information and clarity on what entities should be funded through the Committee. Member Gavina noted that he required directive and alignment of information for each applicant.A dialogue ensued between staff and committee dialogue on service method, funding priorities, the scope and size of the applying organization and itsimpacts on the community. The Committee came to a consensus to create a subcommittee to create a better methodology on applicant selection.The subcommittee consisted of members Gavina, Juarez, and Vice Chair Goff. Analyst Figueroa provided a brief oral report on upcoming revisions to the application and a survey to grantawardees for feedback.Ms. Jemmott explained how the survey would be implemented. Next Regular Meeting: Wednesday, May 16, 2018 at 10:00 a.m. ADJOURNMENT With no further business, Chairperson Lopez adjourned the meeting at 11:57 a.m. ________________________ Leticia Lopez Chairperson ATTEST: _________________________ Maria E. Ayala, CMC Secretary 16 Vernon Community Fund Grant Committee Agenda Item Report Agenda Item No. COV-96-2018 Submitted by: Diana Figueroa Submitting Department: City Administration Meeting Date: May 16, 2018 SUBJECT Award of Fiscal Year 2017/2018 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”) because it is a government fiscal activity that will not result in direct or indirect physical changes in the environment, and therefore does not constitute a “project” as defined by CEQA Guidelines section 15378. And even if such action were a “project,” it would be exempt from CEQA review 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 B. Award Fiscal Year 2017/2018 Docket III grants totaling $110,000 to the three applicants identified below at the amounts recommended: Applicant: California Latino Leadership Institute Original Amount Requested: $15,000 Amount Recommended: $15,000 Proposed Term: 1 year Applicant: Libros Schmibros* Original Amount Requested: $50,000 Amount Recommended: $35,000 Proposed Term: 1 year *Returning Grantee Applicant: Los Angeles Family Housing* Original Amount Requested: $75,000 Amount Recommended: $60,000 Proposed Term: 1 year *Returning Grantee Backgroud: As one of the key elements of the City’s good governance reforms, the City Council created the Vernon CommUNITY Fund (“VCF”) to provide grants to charitable and governmental entities for projects and programs that benefit those residing and working in Vernon. Given the exclusively industrial nature of Vernon, the City Council determined that the VCF was in the best interest of the City and its residents, businesses, and workers. 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 staff related to the VCF. JRG has 17 extensive experience in non-profit grant-making and grants management and specialized knowledge of ethics and principles governing the grant-making process. On February 4, 2014, the City Council adopted Ordinance No. 1218, as amended by Ordinance No. 1238, to establish the Vernon CommUNITY Fund Grant Committee (“Grant Committee”) and provide the basic guidelines and operational procedures for said Committee and its officers, including those related to the allocation of funds and the processes for reviewing and ranking applications and awarding grants. Fiscal Year 2017/2018 Funding Pursuant to Vernon Municipal Code Section 2.164, the City Council may appropriate funds to the VCF. Through the normal budgetary process, City Council authorized an amount of $600,000 to the VCF for fiscal year 2017/2018. The Grant Committee is required to allocate funds for fiscal year 2017/2018 in accordance with the following formula: 1)Administrative Costs shall be determined for the fiscal year and the amount shall be allocated for payment from funds appropriated to the VCF. 2)After Administrative Costs, 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 10 years or more, or otherwise reserve such funds for such projects to be awarded in the future. 3)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 grants, all funds necessary to fund the entire grant must be available to the Committee in the year of the award. The total amount of any 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 sufficient funds to ensure that the grant can be fully funded without the appropriation of additional City funds in future years. In consideration of Administrative Costs of $174,500 and the minimum required set aside for capital projects, the total maximum amount of grant funds available for award to proposals for direct services during Fiscal Year 2017/2018 is $319,125. As such, JRG and City staff recommend the Grant Committee award approximately $106,375 in grants for direct services at each of the 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 Proposals 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: 1)The extent to which the funds will promote the health, safety, and welfare of persons residing or working within the Vernon 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 Vernon. 4)Evidence that the funds will be used by an organization with sufficient capacity to do the work, and will be used effectively and without inefficiencies, waste or fraud. 18 5)For proposals for capital projects, the ability and commitment to fund the maintenance and repair of the project over the long term. FY 2017/2018 Docket III Grant Applications Docket III and 2017/2018 year to date information is summarized in the Grant Review Committee Transmittal Report attached hereto as Attachment 1. As previously indicated, the third and final VCF grant docket for FY 2017/2018 contains three applications for review, deliberation, and award by the Grant Committee. All applicants meet the eligibility requirements set forth in Section 2.165 of the Vernon Municipal Code and all applications were thoroughly vetted by JRG and City staff using the aforementioned 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 2017/2018 Docket III is $110,000. JRG staff has 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 for the Grant Committee’s deliberation. The Grant Committee is expected to debate the content of each application at its May 16, 2018 meeting. The full applications are publicly available and can be accessed at the City Clerk’s Office at Vernon City Hall, or via the City’s website www.CityofVernon.org wherein Docket III grant applicant information is posted online in “Public Meetings” under the “Vernon CommUNITY Fund Grant Committee (VCFGC)” link. Grant Agreement Upon award of grants by the Grant Committee, each grant recipient shall be required to execute a Grant Agreement in substantially the same form 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 return of any unused portion, and requirements respecting the use of the VCF logo. Fiscal Impact: The Fiscal Year 2017/2018 Docket III total recommended grant award amount of $110,000 is included in the 2017/2018 City Budget and, although it exceeds the recommended quarterly allocation of $106,375 for direct service grants, there are sufficient funds in the overall budget for this fiscal year (with $8,696.25 remaining). ATTACHMENTS 1. Grant Review Committee Transmittal Report - FY 2017/2018 Docket III 2. Grant Application Summaries - FY 2017/2018 Docket III 3. Form Grant Agreement 19 Attachment 1 Grant Review Committee Transmittal Report 20 Grant Review Committee Transmittal Report May 16, 2018 Current Cycle: Docket III, FY 2018 Standard Grants Total $ Amount of Grant Requests $230,000 / year Total Grant Budget – Current Cycle $118,696.25 Total # Recommended Grants 3 Average Recommended Grant Amount $36,666 Summary of Recommended Grants STANDARD GRANTS ORGANIZATION REQUESTED AMOUNT RECOMMENDED AMOUNT COMMUNITIES SERVED California Latino Leadership Institute $15,000 $15,000 Bell, Huntington Park, Maywood, Vernon Libros Schmibros $50,000 $35,000 Bell, Boyle Heights, Commerce, Huntington Park, Maywood, Vernon, Unincorporated East LA Los Angeles Family Housing $75,000 $60,000 Bell, Boyle Heights, Commerce, Huntington Park, Maywood, Vernon TOTAL RECOMMENDED AMOUNT $110,000 *$8,696.25 unexpended in current FY Year to Date FY17-18: Docket I - Docket II Total $ Amount of Grant Requests $358,428.75 / year Total Awarded Amount $200,428.75 Total # Grants Recommended 8 Average Recommended Grant Amount $25,053.59 Projections Total Grants Awarded – Dockets I, II,III 11 Total $ Amount of Grants – Dockets I, II, III $310,428.75 21 Attachment 2 Grant Application Summaries 22 GRANT RECOMMENDATION FORM General Applicant Information Applicant Organization: No. of Board Members: Year Founded:Type of Organization: Amount Requested:Recommended Amount: Annual Budget: Brief Narrative description of the organization Organizational strengths: Type of supportrequested: ___ General Operating ___ Project/Program CaliforniaLatinoLeadershipInstitute(CLLI) Other-LeadershipDevelopment2014 $168,500 7 $15,000$15,000 ✔ CALatinoLeadershipInstitute(CLLI)isa501c3foundedin2014whosepurposeistodevelop"diverseand entrepreneurialpublic,corporateandcommunityleaders"throughtheirprogramsandpartnerships. OneofCCLI'smostprominentprogramsfocusesonleadershipdevelopmentforyouthinSouthEastLos Angeles.TheSoutheastYouthWorkforceDevelopmentandCivicEngagementProgram(SoutheastFellows) isapaidsummerinternshipforhighschoolstudents.16"Fellows"areselectedthroughacompetitive applicationprocessandarethenimmersedina7-weekprogramwhichwillnurturethefollowingoutcomes: -Long-termworkforceleadershipdevelopmentthatissustainableforyouth; -Supportcivicengagementandempowerstudentstogrowclosingthecareeropportunitygapandbecoming productivemembersofsociety;and -Inspirepositive,energizedethicalchangewithintheSoutheastcommunity. Committedtoleadershipdevelopmentforyouthin4ofthe7serviceareascoveredbytheVCF Consistentanddemonstrablesuccessintheirprogrammingforwomenandyouth Graduated24Fellowswithin2yearsoftheSoutheastFellowsProgramimplementation IncomefromavarietyofsourcesdemonstratesCLLI'sabilitytofundraise Measurableimpacttothecommunityinits3-1/2yearsinoperation 23 Staff Analysis Proposal Details Documents reviewed ___ Audit/IRS Form 990 (dated: _____ / ____ / ______ ) ___ Organizational Budget ___ Proposal Budget How does the proposal align with the goals of the Fund? &RVW%HQH¿W %HQH¿FLDULHVDQGRU potential impact on the QRQSUR¿WJRYHUQPHQWDO landscape: Description of the proposal to which funds would apply LIQRSDUWLFXODUSURMHFWLVVSHFL¿HGSOHDVHQRWH*HQHUDO2SHUDWLQJ6XSSRUWLQWKLVDUHD 6SHFL¿FSRSXODWLRQVWDUJHWHGE\JUDQWUHTXHVWLIDSSOLFDEOH Age Range: Gender: Race/Ethnicity: Economic Status: Family Type: Military Status: Sexual Orientation: Other (specify): TeensandYoungAdults(ages15-20)ALL ALL n/a LatinoALL ALL Ifawarded,fundsfromtheVCFwouldsupporttheThirdAnnual2018SoutheastYouthWorkforceDevelopment& CivicEngagementProgram(SoutheastFellows). TheSoutheastFellowsProgramisapaidsummerinternshipprogramdesignedtodevelopandrefinecollective problemsolving,softskillsdevelopment,conflictnegotiation,teambuilding,workforcecareermentoringandcivic engagementtools.TheSoutheastFellowsProgramisexclusivetostudentsfromtheSoutheastLosAngelesregion andtheapplicationprocessisopento6SELAcities,4ofwhichserviceresidentsoftheVCFgeographicareas. EachFellowisprovidedwithanindividualtoolkit(thatremainswiththestudentafterfellowshipgraduation)which includesaDelllaptop,computerbag,Microsoftoperatingsystemandmaintenanceservicesforoneyear. Witharecommendedgrantof$15,000,theinvestmentinthisorganizationis equivalenttoabout$938perstudent. ThisgrantwillbenefitSoutheastyouthstrugglingwithaboveaveragedropout ratesandhighteenpregnancyrates.Fundsfromthisawardwillbeusedto purchaselaptopsforthe16studentsselectedtoparticipateintheSoutheast FellowsProgramin2018. ✔ ✔ ✔ 02022017 Thisproposalmeetsthefollowingeligibilityrequirements: -Investinworkforcedevelopment,particularlyforyoungpeopleages14-24; -DemonstratesameasurablebenefittoresidentsofVernonandsurroundingareas; -Demonstratescapacitybytheapplicantorganizationtoablymanageandachieveintendedresultsinaneffectiveandefficientmanner;and -GarnersappreciationfromthepublicandrecognizesthecontributionfromtheCityofVernon. IntermsofmeetingthegoalsoftheFund,theproposalisalignedwiththefollowing: -Tostrengthenandsupportnon-profitorganizationsthatbenefitresidentsandneighborhoods; -ToencourageandinspirepositivesocialdevelopmentinVernonandneighboringcommunities; -Tosupportandassistorganizationsthatexpandopportunitiesfortraininganddevelopmentofresidentsforpotentialemploymentinbusinesses locatedinVernonandsurroundingcommunities; -Topromotepositivesocialdevelopmentofchildren,youth,familiesandseniorresidentsinVernonandsurroundingareas;and -Topromoteeffectiveandresponsibleleadershipateverylevelofsociety. 24 What previous projects has the applicant successfully implemented? Funding Recommendation Fund this proposal?___ Yes ___ No Recommended Amount: 6XJJHVWHGUHYLVLRQVWRSURSRVDOIXQGDPRXQWLIDSSOLFDEOH Staff reviewer: Date: _____ / ____ / ______Signed: ___________________________________ $GGLWLRQDO&RPPHQWVHJFKDOOHQJHVLQLPSOHPHQWDWLRQSODQVIRU9&)UHFRJQLWLRQPHGLDRSSRUWXQLWLHV -Women'sEmpowermentSummit -SoutheastYouthWorkforceDevelopment&CivicEngagementProgram -CAHistoryProject-CincoDeMayoinaBoxEducatorsKit&Exhibit -Clayman'sVoice&InfluenceProgram Ifawarded,CLLIwillrecognizetheVernonCommUNITYFundinthefollowingways: -RecognizingthefundbyplacementoftheVCFlogoontheirwebsite -Recognizethefundwithablastacrossallsocialmediaplatforms -InvitetheVCFGrantCommitteeandCOVstafftoallevents $15,000 MayaCacavas 04202018 X 25 GRANT RECOMMENDATION FORM General Applicant Information Applicant Organization: No. of Board Members: Year Founded:Type of Organization: Amount Requested:Recommended Amount: Annual Budget: Brief Narrative description of the organization Organizational strengths: Type of supportrequested: ___ General Operating ___ Project/Program LibrosSchmibros(fiscalsponsorisCommunityPartners) CommunityService2010 $205,000 5 $50,000$35,000 ✔ LibrosSchmibrosisanon-profitorganizationunderfiscalsponsorshipofCommunityPartners.Ithasanannualbudgetof$162,000,a staffof5parttimeemployeesandislargelysupportedbyitsvolunteers.Theirimpactinthecommunitycontinuestotakerootasthey activelyengagetheirmissionoffacilitating"thepleasuresofliteratureanditspowertochangelives." Theorganizationhastwoprimaryareasofactivity:1)acommunitylendinglibrarywithnomembership/latefeesand2)literaryeventsand publicprogramsattheirphysicallocationandthroughoutthegreaterLosAngelesarea.Theirlendinglibraryhasgrownfrom7,000to 10,000in2yearsandtheymanagetokeepanadditional15,000booksinbackstockatalltimes. LibrosSchmibrosfacedachallengelastyearwhenthebuildingoutofwhichtheyoperatedwasputupforsaleandthefutureofthelibrary becameuncertain.TheymanagedtosecureaspaceinthehistoricBoyleHotelforthenext10yearsdirectlyacrossthestreetfromtheold location.LibrosSchmibrosopeneditsdoorsinthisnewlocationinFebruaryofthisyearandexperiencednointerruptiontotheirprograms duringthistransition.Thelibraryisopen4daysaweek,Thursday-Sunday,12-6pm.LibrosSchimbrosservesapproximately100patrons weekly. AvarietyofprominentandreputablecommunitypartnerssuchasPenCenterUSA,FordTheatre,LACountyArtsCommission,etc. Programmaticemphasisonliteraryeducationforchildren,youthandadults Locationstabilitybringsmorecommunityvisibility-secureda10yearleaseinhistoricBoyleHotel AfiscallysponsoredprojectofCommunityPartnerswhichassuresstrongfinancialmanagementandoversightofprogramactivities Providesundocumentedadultsandchildrenwithsafeborrowingaccess(nopersonalinformationorproofofIDrequiredfor membership) 26 Staff Analysis Proposal Details Documents reviewed ___ Audit/IRS Form 990 (dated: _____ / ____ / ______ ) ___ Organizational Budget ___ Proposal Budget How does the proposal align with the goals of the Fund? &RVW%HQH¿W %HQH¿FLDULHVDQGRU potential impact on the QRQSUR¿WJRYHUQPHQWDO landscape: Description of the proposal to which funds would apply LIQRSDUWLFXODUSURMHFWLVVSHFL¿HGSOHDVHQRWH*HQHUDO2SHUDWLQJ6XSSRUWLQWKLVDUHD 6SHFL¿FSRSXODWLRQVWDUJHWHGE\JUDQWUHTXHVWLIDSSOLFDEOH Age Range: Gender: Race/Ethnicity: Economic Status: Family Type: Military Status: Sexual Orientation: Other (specify): 5-54 ALL ALL ALL ALLALL ALL GeneralOperatingSupport Thesefundswouldfirstbeappliedtoextendedhoursofoperation.LibrosSchmibrosiscurrentlyopen Thursday-Sundayfrom12pm-6pm.Thegoalistoincreasethenumberofdaysa weekthelibraryis openfrom4daysto6daysaweekandtoextendtheopenhoursfrom12pm-6pmto12pm-8pm. Witharecommendedgrantof$35,000and200non-duplicatepatrons,the investmentinthisorganizationisequivalenttoabout$175perpatron ThisgrantwillsupporteducationandliteraryartsprogramminginBoyle Heights.Theorganizationiswell-knownintheimmediatecommunity,but alsohasaleadershiproleinthebroaderLosAngelesartsandculture community. ✔ ✔ 10102016 Thisproposalmeetsthefollowingeligibilityrequirements: -DemonstratesameasurablebenefittoresidentsofVernonandsurroundingareas; -Demonstratescapacitybytheapplicantorganizationtoablymanageandachieveintendedresultsinaneffectiveand efficientmanner;and -GarnersappreciationfromthepublicandrecognizesthecontributionfromtheCityofVernon; IntermsofmeetingthegoalsoftheFund,theproposalisalignedwiththefollowing: -Tostrengthenandsupportnon-profitorganizationsthatbenefitresidentsandneighborhoods; -ToencourageandinspirepositivesocialdevelopmentinVernonandneighboringcommunities;and -Topromotepositivesocialdevelopmentofchildren,youth,familiesandseniorresidentsinVernonandsurroundingareas. 27 What previous projects has the applicant successfully implemented? Funding Recommendation Fund this proposal?___ Yes ___ No Recommended Amount: 6XJJHVWHGUHYLVLRQVWRSURSRVDOIXQGDPRXQWLIDSSOLFDEOH Staff reviewer: Date: _____ / ____ / ______Signed: ___________________________________ $GGLWLRQDO&RPPHQWVHJFKDOOHQJHVLQLPSOHPHQWDWLRQSODQVIRU9&)UHFRJQLWLRQPHGLDRSSRUWXQLWLHV LibrosSchmibrosreceivedagrantawardintheamountof$15,000forgeneraloperatingsupportinAugustof 2016.Inadditiontosuccessfullyoperatingtheirlendinglibraryforthesixyearspriorandtheyearandahalf sincetheVCFaward,LibrosSchmibroshasalso: -WeeklystorytellinghourforyoungchildreninEnglish/Spanish; -YoungWritersprogram-3residenciesinBoyleHeightsHS,oneofwhichresurrectedtheRooseveltHSpaper; -BornoutoftheYoungWritersProgram,mothersofthestudentsestablishedareadingprogramintheformofa bookclub;LibrosSchmibrosprovidesallbookstothesemothersforfree;and -Secureda10-yearleaseinthehistoricBoyleHotelandcompletedthetransitionwithoutinterruptiontotheir programs. Ifawardedthisgrant,LibrosSchmibroswouldrecognizetheVernonCommUNITYFundinthe followingways: -RecognizingtheVCFontheLibrosSchmibroswebsite -RecognizingtheVCFonallsocialmediaplatforms -RecognizingtheVCFonalleventmaterials,bothonlineandoffline Therearenosignificantchallengesthatwouldbeanticipatedintheon-goingimplementationofLibros Schmibrosprograms. Suggesting$15,000lessthanrequestedamountduetolimitedfundsavailabilityfortheVCF FY2017-2018. $35,000 MayaCacavas 4202018 X 28 GRANT RECOMMENDATION FORM General Applicant Information Applicant Organization: No. of Board Members: Year Founded:Type of Organization: Amount Requested:Recommended Amount: Annual Budget: Brief Narrative description of the organization Organizational strengths: Type of support requested: ___ General Operating ___ Project/Program LAFamilyHousing Health/HumanServices1983 $23,182,484 20 $75,000$60,000 ✔ LAFamilyHousingsuccessfullyprovideshousingforhomelessfamiliesacrossLosAngelesCounty andhasbeenaleadingproponentoftransitionalsupportwithwraparoundservicestoincludetrauma informedcare,jobtrainingandemploymentandchildcare.Onceafamily's basicneedshavebeen met,LAFHon-sitepartnersdoesacompleteassessmentofthefamily'sneedsandinitiatesthe processofprovidingmorestabilityandpermanency.Theoverallgoalisto stabilizethefamilyand provideeasieraccesstoeveryavailableresourcepossiblethatenablesfamiliestore-establishtheir livesandmovetopermanenthousing.Theconnectiontothefamilycontinuesafterpermanent housingisestablished. LAFamilyHousingisgovernedbyastrong20memberboardofdirectorswithdeepexpertiseinthe realestateandhousingindustries.Theprofessionalstaffcombinesexpertiseinsocialwelfarewith economicdevelopmentandurbanplanning. Theorganization'sstrengthsinclude: strongleadershipattheboardandprofessionalstafflevels; insightsandadvocacyeffortsthatbenefitclientsandtheirfamilies; partnershipswithfamilysupportorganizationsincludingPATHandTheWholeChild; leadershipinthefieldofhomelessservices; 29 Staff Analysis Proposal Details Documents reviewed ___ Audit/IRS Form 990 (dated: _____ / ____ / ______ ) ___ Organizational Budget ___ Proposal Budget How does the proposal align with the goals of the Fund? &RVW%HQH¿W %HQH¿FLDULHVDQGRU potential impact on the QRQSUR¿WJRYHUQPHQWDO landscape: Description of the proposal to which funds would apply LIQRSDUWLFXODUSURMHFWLVVSHFL¿HGSOHDVHQRWH*HQHUDO2SHUDWLQJ6XSSRUWLQWKLVDUHD 6SHFL¿FSRSXODWLRQVWDUJHWHGE\JUDQWUHTXHVWLIDSSOLFDEOH Age Range: Gender: Race/Ethnicity: Economic Status: Family Type: Military Status: Sexual Orientation: Other (specify): 0-adult;1/3under17 homelessfamilies mostlyfemale N/A 1/3AfricanAmerican;1/3HispanicServes 80%belowthearea'smedianincome In2016,LAFHplaced529familiesintopermanenthousingincluding1,043children.VCFdirectly supportfamiliesattheCaesarChavezCommunity,a27unitbuildingofferingemergencyshelterin BoyleHeightsforfamiliesfromtheVernonarea.WhileLAFHreceivedapriorgrantwiththe expectationofplacing200familiesfromtheVernonarea,theoutcomesfellshortofthatexpectation. Whiledatasupportsthetotalnumberoffamiliesserved,escalatinghousingcostsandlackofavailable housinginthecommunitiesservedbyVCFresultedinfewerpermanenthousingplacements. GeneraloperatingfundssupportdirectservicesprovidedbyLAFH. 71familiesplacedinpermanenthousinginoneyearrepresentsacostofslightly morethan$789perfamilyforservicesandassistancewithmovingcosts. Approximately58,000individualsarehomelessinLosAngelesCounty; placementof71familiesreducesthatburdenbyapproximately250 individuals. ✔ ✔ 12312015 TheVernonCommunityFundsupportsnon-profitorganizationsthatprovidedirectservicestoadults andchildrenthatimprovethequalityoftheirlives. 30 What previous projects has the applicant successfully implemented? Funding Recommendation Fund this proposal? ___ Yes ___ No Recommended Amount: 6XJJHVWHGUHYLVLRQVWRSURSRVDOIXQGDPRXQWLIDSSOLFDEOH Staff reviewer: Date: _____ / ____ / ______Signed: ___________________________________ $GGLWLRQDO&RPPHQWVHJFKDOOHQJHVLQLPSOHPHQWDWLRQSODQVIRU9&)UHFRJQLWLRQPHGLDRSSRUWXQLWLHV LAFamilyHousingmadesignificantprogresswiththeirpreviousVCFgrantontheirgoalstoplace200 familiesinpermanenthousing.Externalforcesthatcouldnothavebeenpredictablereducedtheir numericalgoalshowever92%oftheirparticipantsstayhousedforthelong term. LAFamilyHousingemploysaQualityAssuranceManagerwhoworkswithother stafftotrackdataof familiesintheircareandassessperformanceoutcomes. Theorganizationappliedfor$75,000;availabilityoffundssuggestsfundingattheabovelevel. $60,000.00 FranJemmott X 31 Attachment 3 Form Grant Agreement 32 Vernon CommUNITY Fund Grant Agreement On [INSERT DATE] the Vernon CommUNITY Fund (Grantor) awarded a grant to [INSERT ORGANIZATION] (Grantee) in the amount of $[INSERT AMOUNT] to support the following purposes: To support [INSERT ORGANIZATION MISSION AND PROJECT DESCRIPTION]. 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. [INSERT SCOPE] 2. Amount of Grant: $[INSERT AMOUNT], payable upon the Vernon CommUNITY 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 CommUNITY 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: Interim report: [INSERT DATE] Final report: [INSERT DATE] Please submit your report using your FluidReview account. If you have any questions about the grant report, please reach out to the Vernon CommUNITY Fund by phone at 323.351.1198 or by email at vernoncommunityfund@ci.vernon.ca.us. 33 Vernon CommUNITY Fund General 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 grassroots 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 Internal 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. If 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 Grantor’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 subgrantee. 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. I. Organizational 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. In the event that Grantee ceases its operations, Grantee shall transfer any property purchased with the grant funds to Grantor. J. Liability, Disclaimers and Insurance 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 34 Vernon CommUNITY Fund General 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 $75,000 or more shall obtain from their insurance carriers certificates of insurance naming the City of Vernon as additional insured. K. Promotion and Publicity. Recognition of the grant brings valuable attention to the mission and activities of both Grantee and Grantor. Grantee agrees that Grantor may include information regarding Grantee and/or this grant, including the amount and purpose of the grant, any photographs or materials Grantee has provided for promotional purposes, Grantee’s logo or trademark, and/or other information or materials about Grantee’s organization and activities, in Grantor’s periodic public reports, newsletters, events, and media releases. Grantee may, subject to Grantor’s right of approval in its reasonable discretion, promote Grantor and/or this grant by: 1. Reporting on the partnership with Grantor in Grantee’s communication materials, including but not limited to, newsletters, events, media interviews, website posts, and promotional e-mails; 2. Assisting Grantor on cross-promotional events and endeavors. Grantor must review and approve all materials (including website postings) that use its name or logo, prior to production or publication. Such approval will not be unreasonably withheld. L. Entire Agreement. Grantor reserves the right to withhold or suspend payments of grant 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. [Signatures begin on next page] 35 Vernon CommUNITY Fund General Grant Agreement | 4 IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Grant Agreement effective on the _____ day of ______ ____ , 2018. [INSERT NAME], Grantee Authorized Signature Printed Name Title Date CITY OF VERNON, Grantor ATTEST: By: Maria E. Ayala, City Clerk Name: Carlos R. Fandino, Jr. Title: City Administrator Date: 36 Vernon Community Fund Grant Committee Agenda Item Report Agenda Item No. COV-100-2018 Submitted by: Diana Figueroa Submitting Department: City Administration Meeting Date: May 16, 2018 SUBJECT Vernon CommUNITY Fund Grant Committee Discussion Regarding Repeat Grant Applicants Recommendation: A. Find that the actions recommended in this staff report do not constitute a “project” pursuant to Section 15378(b)(2) of the Guidelines to the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) because such recommendations constitute an administrative activity; and even if the proposed actions did constitute a project, it would be exempt from 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 B. Discuss and direct staff regarding potential limits to the number of times that an organization may submit an application for a Vernon CommUNITY Fund (“VCF”) Direct Service Grant after receiving a grant award from the VCF. Backgroud: City staff and Jemmott Rollins Group (“JRG”) are seeking guidance from the VCF Grant Committee (the “Grant Committee”) on whether there should be a limit in place for how many times a returning grantee may submit a VCF application for additional funding. As the Grant Committee is aware, there are a number of returning grantees that are often approved for second grant awards by the VCF, as they have demonstrated success in their ability to provide valuable service to the Vernon Area. The question has often been posed as to how many times they are able to return to seek grant funding from the VCF. As a general rule, JRG has recommended to the repeat applicants that they seek out additional funding from other grantmaking entities and only return to the VCF after a significant period of time has passed in order for the VCF to a) assess the effectiveness in which the VCF funds were utilized with their previous award, and b) so to ensure that the VCF is not the sole support for an organization’s sustainability. JRG and City staff evaluate grant applications in an effort to be aligned with established award criteria and Grant Committee objectives. It is important to the Grant Committee that an award for an organization be significant; however, it is also critical that an organization not develop a dependency on the VCF to sustain its operational needs. Thus, there is a balance to consider when evaluating any repeat grant application. In order for City staff and JRG to recommend grant applicants that adhere to the Grant Committee’s standards, direction is being sought to determine if/when there should be a limit employed upon repeat applicants. Staff will proceed as per the direction of the Grant Committee. Fiscal Impact: None.37 ATTACHMENTS  38 Vernon Community Fund Grant Committee Agenda Item Report Agenda Item No. COV-97-2018 Submitted by: Diana Figueroa Submitting Department: City Administration Meeting Date: May 16, 2018 SUBJECT Vernon CommUNITY Fund Direct Service Grant Guidelines Recommendation: A. Find that the approval of the Vernon CommUNITY Fund Direct Service Grant Guidelines is exempt under the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) because it is an administrative activity that will not result in direct or indirect physical changes in the environment and, therefore, does not constitute a “project” as defined by CEQA Guidelines section 15378. And, even if such action were a “project”, it would be exempt from CEQA review 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 B. Approve and adopt the proposed Direct Service Grant Guidelines under which future direct service grant applicants will be evaluated, expanding upon the existing framework of criteria established by the Vernon Municipal Code. Backgroud: As indicated at the Vernon CommUNITY Fund (“VCF”) Grant Committee meeting held on February 21, 2018, members were in support of defining more specific parameters for awarding direct service grants moving forward due to the limited funds available for grant making activities. As such, a subcommittee consisting of Member Goff and Member Juarez was formed to address this matter. By utilizing the Subcommittee’s input, staff was able to create a set of guidelines under which Jemmott Rollins Group (“JRG”), City staff, and the Grant Committee will evaluate all future Direct Service Grant applicants. The main concepts driving the parameters for Direct Service Grant awards, as articulated by the VCF Grant Committee (“Grant Committee”), are: •It is important that Vernon CommUNITY Funds be invested in organizations in a strategic manner that optimized the dollar for value •Grant awards should, ideally, be focused on specific programs and/or projects rather than cover general operating expenses •Applications that target partnerships and/or related projects with previous VCF grantees should be a priority (when applicable), as it would allow the VCF to have a greater impact in the communities in the Vernon area In an effort to address the Grant Committee’s directives, a document that is aligned with the points above has been drafted (and attached to this staff report) for the Grant Committee’s approval. During the composition of this document, the Subcommittee, City staff, and JRG were careful to ensure that it effectively expressed the intent of the Grant Committee while maintaining alignment with the overall objectives of the Vernon CommUNITY Fund. The Guidelines build upon the framework of existing criteria in Sections 2.165-2.168 of the Vernon Municipal Code and are 39 designed to provide a more detailed description of the parameters utilized to evaluate grant applicants. The Direct Service Grant Guidelines have been reviewed and approved by the City Attorney’s Office. Fiscal Impact: There is no fiscal impact associated with the VCF Grant Committee's adoption of the Direct Service Grant Guidelines. ATTACHMENTS 1. VCF Direct Service Grant Guidelines 40 Guidelines for Direct Service Grant Awards About the Vernon CommUNITY Fund The Vernon CommUNITY Fund targets its grant making activity toward organizations serving the Vernon Area (which includes the cities of Vernon, Maywood, Bell, Huntington Park, Commerce, the area within the City of Los Angeles known as Boyle Heights, and the unincorporated area known as East Los Angeles). Background Founded in 1905 as the first exclusively industrial city in the Southwestern United States, the City of Vernon is an industrial city of 5.2 square miles located southeast of Downtown Los Angeles in Southern California. Vernon currently houses more than 1,800 businesses that employ approximately 50,000 people and serves as a vital economic engine in the region. The City maintains strong philanthropic ties with neighboring communities where much of its workforce lives, providing significant financial support for public services including health care and education. The Vernon CommUNITY Fund (VCF) contributes to the health, well-being and quality of life in surrounding communities. The Fund is administered by a diverse group of appointed volunteers serving as the Grant Committee which reviews and approves applications from community and faith-based organizations as well as local governments. VCF Mission The Vernon CommUNITY Fund provides charitable contributions to community-based organizations and governmental agencies in support of efforts to improve the quality of life, strengthen families and affirm Vernon’s ties with neighboring communities in pursuit of bright futures. Implemented in 2014, the VCF has granted more than $2 million to nonprofits aligned with its mission. Goals  To strengthen and support non-profit organizations that benefit residents and neighborhoods;  To amplify the impact of the Vernon CommUNITY Fund in Vernon and nearby communities;  To encourage and inspire positive social development in Vernon and neighboring communities;  To support and assist organizations that expand opportunities for training and development of residents for potential employment in businesses located in Vernon and surrounding communities;  To promote positive social development of children, youth, families and senior residents in Vernon and surrounding areas;  To promote effective and responsible leadership at every level of the community;  To invest funds in a strategic manner that optimizes dollar for value to communities served;  To promote community partnerships amongst VCF grantees that have utilized Vernon’s contributions in a meaningful way;  To increase visibility of funded programs and services by facilitating recognition of the Vernon CommUNITY Fund as a positive benefactor in the southeast region and securing its legacy in contributing to the betterment of the Vernon Area Values  Shared responsibility for the well-being of our neighbors now and into the future;  Integrity and accountability for fair decisions using high ethical standards;  Unity of purpose and commitment to succeed at fulfilling our mission 41 Vernon CommUNITY Fund Guidelines for Direct Service Grant Awards | 2 Guidelines for Direct Service Grant Awards Definition and Funds Available Direct Service Grants are specific funding awards that are designed to grant support to an organization’s involvement in the community. These grants typically support personnel, general operating costs or programs. The VCF will focus on funding projects and/or programs that detail a specific mission in the community or target a specific purpose. The Vernon CommUNITY Fund’s goal is to strategically fund nonprofits who offer the greatest impact for dollar; and advocate for organizations that may unify previous grant making efforts by partnering and/or overlapping services with existing VCF grantees, thereby amplifying the impact of the Vernon CommUNITY Fund in the Vernon area. Eligibility and Application Review Process Direct Service Grants are awarded to organizations located in and/or serving the population in the Vernon CommUNITY Fund catchment area. Eligibility criteria and grant making processes are detailed in Vernon Municipal Code (VMC) Sections 2.165-2.168. Selection criteria for all grant applications are established at VMC Section 2.166. The considerations outlined here are clarifications and elaborations of the existing statutory criteria and will apply when an organization is evaluated for a Direct Service Grant. All applicants should provide a description of the purpose for which an award would be used along with the estimated cost of the total project and/or program; and the quantifiable value that would be added to Vernon and the surrounding community. The VCF Direct Service Grant application review will include a full assessment of the following: “Extent to which Funds Will Promote Health, Safety, and Welfare of Persons Residing and Working in the Vernon Area” / “Benefit Anticipated to Accrue to the Vernon Area” (VMC Section 2.166(a)(i) and (ii))  Population Served The VCF considers whether a program or service fills a gap for unmet needs for the population in the Vernon area, and whether an organization is providing quality, in-demand services to the diverse and underserved communities in the southeast region.  Impact The level of impact that a project or program offered by an organization has upon the community is important, as is the method in which it is measured. The VCF considers an organization’s unique circumstances and asks if the impact in the Vernon area will be effective, direct, and exponential to those served.  Innovation The VCF is interested in innovative organizations and approaches. An applicant will be evaluated on whether the program/project has the potential to establish a new practice, improve how a specific population is being served, or respond to emerging changes in the social landscape. “Extent to which Public Will Appreciate that Benefits of Proposed Actions Were Direct Result of Funding Provided by City of Vernon” (VMC Sec. 2.166(a)(iii))  Recognition For the VCF, it is paramount that it establish partnerships with grant recipients and that these organizations recognize the VCF for its contributions to the betterment of the Vernon Area. The VCF is committed to serving the community in the best and broadest way possible, and the ability of a grantee to publicly recognize these efforts is of great value to the VCF, as public recognition remains one of the best ways to increase awareness of the programs and services funded. Reaching those populations directly impacted by grant funding is of primary importance. 42 Vernon CommUNITY Fund Guidelines for Direct Service Grant Awards | 3 Methods for recognition may include, but are not limited to: social media acknowledgements, events showcasing the program/project where the VCF will be publicly acknowledged either through a speaking opportunity or presentation, inclusion of an ad in a program or signage at a physical facility where the program/project takes place. Recognition shall be targeted toward:  The people, communities, and organizations that have directly benefited;  The leadership within the applicant’s organization;  The external community at large. “Evidence that Funds Will Be Used by Organization with Sufficient Capacity to do the Work, and Will Be Used Effectively and Without Inefficiencies, Waste or Fraud” (VMC Sec. 2.166(a)(iv))  Leadership The VCF evaluates staff members’ individual and collective leadership experience, expertise, vision, passion, commitment, and professional and community reputation. The VCF compares an organization’s approaches and solutions to other successful operations.  Partnerships Collaboration is an important tool among nonprofits. The VCF evaluates whether an organization is well- integrated into its community and involved in partnerships, and considers whether developing strategic partnerships is an ongoing part of its work.  Organizational Strength An organization’s history, reputation, structure and management is weighed by the VCF. The VCF will evaluate if an organization is regarded as a provider of high-quality, relevant and meaningful services. Qualities that are valued include positive morale, strong management and efficient communication systems.  Sustainability The VCF examines the sustainability of a program or project and the organization as a whole. The strength, stability and diversity of the nonprofit’s finances are assessed. At the program or project level, the VCF evaluates the significance of a singular grant and/or whether an organization has regular contributions from other sources. 43 Vernon Community Fund Grant Committee Agenda Item Report Agenda Item No. COV-98-2018 Submitted by: Diana Figueroa Submitting Department: City Administration Meeting Date: May 16, 2018 SUBJECT Vernon CommUNITY Fund Pilot Scholarship Program Guidelines Recommendation: A. Find that the Vernon CommUNITY Fund “Pilot” Scholarship Program Guidelines proposed in this staff report is exempt under the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) because it is an administrative activity that will not result in direct or indirect physical changes in the environment and, therefore, does not constitute a “project” as defined by CEQA Guidelines section 15378. And, even if such action were a “project”, it would be exempt from CEQA review 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 B. Approve and adopt the proposed Vernon CommUNITY Fund (“VCF”) Scholarship Program Guidelines for the VCF Pilot Scholarship Program, with implementation of said guidelines subject to amendment of Article XX, Sections 2.165 and 2.166, of the Vernon Municipal Code. Backgroud: At its November 8, 2017 meeting, the VCF Grant Committee (the “Grant Committee”) agreed to proceed with a VCF Pilot Scholarship Program, as per the recommendation of the VCF Scholarship Subcommittee (the “Subcommittee”). Thereafter, the Subcommittee, City staff, and JRG convened to address program details, timeline, and administration of the program. The VCF Grant Committee approved an allocation in the amount of $20,000 toward the Pilot Scholarship Program and a Pilot Scholarship Program Timeline at their February 21, 2018 meeting. In light of the monetary approval and in accordance with the approved timeline, the Scholarship Subcommittee, City staff, and JRG proceeded with the composition of the attached VCF Pilot Scholarship Program Guidelines. This document has been designed to provide the foundation for the VCF Scholarship Program and, as such, it was important to those involved with its creation that careful thought went into its development. Adoption of the VCF Scholarship Program Guidelines will make way for the generation of the Scholarship Program “Applicant Package” (which would be brought to the VCFGC in August), and is a step toward the targeted January 2019 kick-off of the pilot program. Additional administrative components (applicant documentation and marketing materials) will continue to be engineered through the guidance of the Subcommittee and implemented by City staff and JRG as the pilot program continues to take shape. At various checkpoints, items will be presented to the VCF Grant Committee for vetting and approvals; and will also be presented to the City Council for approvals when appropriate. Working in alignment with the approved program timeline will allow for adequate time to organize, plan, prepare, and gather necessary approvals for each phase of program progression; including an amendment to Article XX of the Vernon Municipal Code (specifically, Sections 2.165 and 2.166) to incorporate language that references the VCF scholarship program eligibility, selection criteria, and related guidelines.44 Upon the Grant Committee’s approval of the VCF Pilot Scholarship Program Guidelines, the Subcommittee, City staff, and JRG will proceed into the next phase of development of the VCF Pilot Scholarship Program in accordance with the proposed timeline. The VCF Pilot Scholarship Program Guidelines have been reviewed and approved by the City Attorney’s Office. Fiscal Impact: There is no fiscal impact associated with the adoption of the VCF Pilot Scholarship Program Guidelines. ATTACHMENTS 1. VCF Pilot Scholarship Program Guidelines 45 Vernon CommUNITY Fund “Pilot” Scholarship Program Guidelines The Vernon CommUNITY Fund “Pilot” Scholarship Program targets its grant making activity toward 12th grade students living in the Vernon Area (which includes the cities of Vernon, Maywood, Bell, Huntington Park, Commerce, the area within the City of Los Angeles known as Boyle Heights, and the unincorporated area known as East Los Angeles). Scholarship Criteria Vernon Municipal Code (VMC) Section 2.166(a)(vi) sets forth the specific selection criteria for scholarship recipients and will be the specific standards used to identify qualified applicants who, ultimately, will be recommended as scholarship recipients. Selection criteria have been identified to clearly define the profile of the scholarship recipient. Many factors will be considered when evaluating scholarship applicants. Scholarship criteria include an applicant’s financial need, academic achievement, and the geographic distribution of scholarships. The criteria selected support the purpose of the Vernon CommUNITY Fund which was established to provide charitable contributions in support of improved quality of life, strengthening of families, and affirming Vernon’s ties with neighboring communities in pursuit of bright futures. The Vernon CommUNITY Fund Scholarship Program was created to provide disadvantaged youth in the Vernon Area the opportunity to achieve success in their post- secondary educational endeavors. Award Criteria (not in order of priority) • Financial need • Academic achievement • Community/extracurricular involvement • Leadership • Awards and recognition • Personal and/or family attributes Eligibility 12th grade students enrolling in a post-secondary educational institution with full-time status who reside in the Vernon Area (as defined above) may submit an application for a Vernon CommUNITY Fund (VCF) Scholarship. Specific eligibility standards are identified in within this section. In order to be considered for award, applicants must meet all of the following detailed criteria: • Graduating High School Senior • Achievement of a Minimum Weighted Grade Point Average of 2.0 in high school level coursework for trade school or two-year College applicants; or Minimum Weighted Grade Point Average of 2.5 in high 46 Vernon CommUNITY Fund “Pilot” Scholarship Program Guidelines school level coursework for four-year College/University applicants at the time of VCF Scholarship application submission • Pursuit of a two-year or four-year Degree from accredited College/University; or pursuit of Trade School Certification • Full-time enrollment at post-secondary educational institution of choice (minimum of 12 units for college) • Immediate transition into a post-secondary educational institution upon graduation from high school (must begin post-secondary coursework within 6 months of graduation) • Residency in the Vernon Area (U.S. Citizenship is not required); minimum residency of 12 months • Demonstration of strong leadership skills and responsibility (successfully communicated in scholarship application) • Active in extracurricular activities (school/community involvement/employment) • A minimum of 20 hours of community service from 9th grade to first semester of 12th grade • Not a City of Vernon employee or relative1 or dependent of a City of Vernon employee, Vernon City- appointed official, or Vernon City-elected official Application Procedures The information requested on the application is a reflection of the selection criteria designated for the VCF Scholarship Program. The following question and answer section (Q&A) addresses procedures related to the submission of a VCF Scholarship application: Q: Where and when are scholarship applications available? A: Beginning on January 1st of each year, applications will be available on the Vernon CommUNITY Fund website: www.vernoncommunityfund.org Q: Where should scholarship applications be submitted? A: Students may submit their applications via the online portal available at the Vernon CommUNITY Fund website. Contact information is available on the website if any questions or technical issues arise during the application submission process. Q: When are scholarship applications due? A: The Vernon CommUNITY Fund will accept scholarship applications through March 31st. Q: What additional information/documents must accompany the scholarship application? A: As per the eligibility criteria noted above, students must submit proof that they reside and have resided for at least 12 months in the Vernon Area (e.g. utility bills); most recent report card; evidence of GPA with high school transcripts; sworn statement (on form found on the Vernon CommUNITY Fund website) 1 The definition of “relative” shall be the same as that used in the City of Vernon’s policy against nepotism, which can be found here: http://www.cityofvernon.org/images/hr/personnel-policies-procedures/I-5%20-%20nepotism%20- %20Sept%202013.pdf 47 Vernon CommUNITY Fund “Pilot” Scholarship Program Guidelines of a teacher or program director/supervisor with knowledge that applicant has performed the minimum amount of community service; and evidence of extracurricular activities. Although not required, students may also include letter(s) of recommendation, and/or letter(s) of acceptance to post-secondary educational institution(s) along with their scholarship application. Q: How and when will the scholarship award winners be notified? A: Scholarship grant applicants recommended for award will be reviewed at the regular VCF Grant Committee meeting in May. Applicants selected for award will be notified within one week of scholarship award via email. Q: How and when will the scholarship awards be disbursed? A: Award disbursement will occur in June, with checks directly mailed to scholarship grantees. The VCF Grant Committee retains the right to withhold scholarship grants in any given year if no candidate is determined to be qualified. Additional Considerations • Scholarship value range will be based on applicant competition and funds available for award • Personal interview of scholarship applicant may or may not be required, and shall be determined after initial review of applicant pool • Applications may be summarily denied, with or without prior notification to the applicant, if any statements or representations in the application and supporting materials are found to be untruthful, dishonest, or misleading Selection Procedures Procedures for selection of award will not differ from the current process employed for the award of direct service grants and capital grants through the Vernon CommUNITY Fund. The initial evaluation of the merit of a scholarship application will be a joint effort amongst City staff and Jemmott Rollins Group (JRG). Ultimately, any candidate(s) recommended for award will be brought to the Vernon CommUNITY Grant Committee in May for deliberation and approval(s) of grant(s). The VCF Scholarship Program is designed to benefit a broad class of beneficiaries through an objective process that is nondiscriminatory in nature. Program Timeline A VCF Scholarship Program Timeline has been established based upon the calendar year. In summary, applications are accepted beginning January 1st through March 31st of a given year. In May, the Vernon 48 Vernon CommUNITY Fund “Pilot” Scholarship Program Guidelines CommUNITY Fund Grant Committee will select scholarship grantees. Funds for scholarship awards will be dispersed in June to all scholarship grant recipients. Promotion/Publicity Brochures, newsletters, direct mail, social media, scholarship directory listings or a combination of one or more of these methods will be used to advertise the availability of a Vernon CommUNITY Fund Scholarship. It is important that the appropriate applicant pool is reached, as targeted students reside in the Vernon Area (which is clearly defined). 49