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Home My WebLink About20112905.tiff RESOLUTION RE: APPROVE APPLICATION FOR FEDERAL ASSISTANCE FOR WELD COUNTY YOUTH CONSERVATION CORPS, AMERICORPS PROGRAM, AND AUTHORIZE ELECTRONIC SUBMITTAL WHEREAS, the Board of County Commissioners of Weld County, Colorado, pursuant to Colorado statute and the Weld County Home Rule Charter, is vested with the authority of administering the affairs of Weld County, Colorado, and WHEREAS,the Board has been presented with an Application for Federal Assistance for the Weld County Youth Conservation Corps, AmeriCorps Program, from the County of Weld, State of Colorado, by and through the Board of County Commissioners of Weld County, on behalf of the Department of Human Services, to the Governor's Commission on Community Service, commencing October 8, 2012, and ending October 7, 2015,with further terms and conditions being as stated in said application, and WHEREAS,after review,the Board deems it advisable to approve said application,a copy of which is attached hereto and incorporated herein by reference. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Board of County Commissioners of Weld County, Colorado, that the Application for Federal Assistance for the Weld County Youth Conservation Corps, AmeriCorps Program, from the County of Weld, State of Colorado, by and through the Board of County Commissioners of Weld County, on behalf of the Department of Human Services, to the Governor's Commission on Community Service be, and hereby is, approved. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED by the Board that the Deputy Clerk to the Board be, and hereby is, authorized to electronically submit said application. The above and foregoing Resolution was, on motion duly made and seconded, adopted by the following vote on the 2nd day of November, A.D., 2011. BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WELD COUNTY, CO ORADO ATTEST: „,e,,,...„7-14 yt_ ar ara Kirkmeyer, C air Weld County Clerk to the Board EL CUSED n P. Co y, Pro-Tem BY: Deputy CI k to the Board 1161 �' O' >IV (____. • m F. Garcia APPROVED AS T FORM: ® ,. , AF w C �7 „� � `'David E. Long o5hty Attorney b Douglas ademache Date of signature: //-S-// Q-c- N S U 2011-2905 II - ?- ! ! HR0082 MEMORANDUM 1861 - 2011 DATE: October 31, 2011 W E L LLC O U N T Y TO: Barbara Kirkmeyer, Chair, Board of County Co mi ioners FR: Judy A. Griego, Director, Department u ne ices RE: Third Year Continuation Grant for the eld County Department of Human Services' Employment Services AmeriCorps Grant Enclosed for Board approval is Three Year Grant Proposal between the Weld County Department of Human Services' Employment Services and the Corporation for National and Community Services. This Grant Proposal was reviewed at the Board's October 31, 2011, Work Session. The grant cycle begins October 2012 and concludes October 2015. WCYCC has requested to enroll a total of 43 AmeriCorps members at the equivalency of 15 full time (1700 hours) members which is consistent with the number of current full time members. Total grant amount requested is $401,937.00 of which $199,739 would be provided by the Corporation for National and Community Service and $202,198.00 allocated to the grantee share. If you have any questions, please contact me at extension 6510. 2011-2905 ' 'Ta" PART I - FACE SHEET APPLICATION FOR FEDERAL ASSISTANCE 1.TYPE OF SUBMISSION: Modified Standard Form 424(Rev.02/07 to confirm to the Corporation's eGrants System) I Application X Non-Construction 2a.DATE SUBMITTED TO CORPORATION 3.DATE RECEIVED BY STATE: STATE APPLICATION IDENTIFIER: FOR NATIONAL AND COMMUNITY SERVICE(CNCS): 2b.APPLICATION ID: 4.DATE RECEIVED BY FEDERAL AGENCY: FEDERAL IDENTIFIER: 12AC133070 5.APPLICATION INFORMATION LEGAL NAME: Board of Weld County Commissioners,Weld County Division of Hum[ NAME AND CONTACT INFORMATION FOR PROJECT DIRECTOR OR OTHER PERSON TO BE CONTACTED ON MATTERS INVOLVING THIS APPLICATION(give DUNS NUMBER: 075757955 area codes): NAME: Tami Grant ADDRESS(give street address,city,state,zip code and county): PO Box 1805 TELEPHONE NUMBER:(970)353-3800 6754 315 N.11th Ave ' FAX NUMBER: (970)346-7981 Greeley CO 80632 County: INTERNET E-MAIL ADDRESS:tgrant@co.weld.co.us -- _- -- _ -- - --- 6.EMPLOYER IDENTIFICATION NUMBER(EIN): 7.TYPE OF APPLICANT: 846000813 7a. Local Government-County I lb. Community Action Agency/Community Action Program 8.TYPE OF APPLICATION(Check appropriate box). X_ NEW I NEW/PREVIOUS GRANTEE CONTINUATION I AMENDMENT If Amendment,enter appropriate letter(s)in box(es): -• A. AUGMENTATION B.BUDGET REVISION C.NO COST EXTENSION D.OTHER(specify below): • 9.NAME OF FEDERAL AGENCY: Corporation for National and Community Service 10a.CATALOG OF FEDERAL DOMESTIC ASSISTANCE NUMBER:94.006 '11.a.DESCRIPTIVE TITLE OF APPLICANT'S PROJECT: 10b.TITLE: AmeriCorps State Weld County Youth Conservation Corps(WCYCC) 12.AREAS AFFECTED BY PROJECT(List Cities,Counties,States,etc): 11.b.CNCS PROGRAM INITIATIVE(IF ANY): r The Weld County Youth Conservation Corps(WCYCC)is located in Greeley Colorado.Weld County CO is the third most extensive and the ninth most populous of the 64 counties in the State of Colorado. It's the intent of WCYCC to provide ser 13.PROPOSED PROJECT:START DATE 10/08/12 END DATE: 10/07/15 14.CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT OF: a.Applicant b.Program [CO 0041 15.ESTIMATED FUNDING:Year#:I 1 16.IS APPLICATION SUBJECT TO REVIEW BY STATE EXECUTIVE ORDER 12372 PROCESS? a.FEDERAL $ 199,739.00 -- _ YES.THIS PREAPPLICATION/APPLICATION WAS MADE AVAILABLE $ 202,198.00 TO THE STATE EXECUTIVE ORDER 12372 PROCESS FOR b.APPLICANT REVIEW ON: c.STATE $ 0.00 DATE: d.LOCAL _ _ $ 0.00 X NO.PROGRAM IS NOT COVERED BY E.O.12372 ,, e.OTHER $ 0.00 17.IS THE APPLICANT DELINQUENT ON ANY FEDERAL DEBT? f.PROGRAM INCOME $ 0.00 -- -- -- YES if"Yes,"attach an explanation. X NO g.TOTAL $ 401,937.00 18.TO THE BEST OF MY KNOWLEDGE AND BELIEF,ALL DATA IN THIS APPLICATION/PREAPPLICATION ARE TRUE AND CORRECT,THE DOCUMENT HAS BEEN I DULY AUTHORIZED BY THE GOVERNING BODY OF THE APPLICANT AND THE APPLICANT WILL COMPLY WITH THE ATTACHED ASSURANCES IF THE ASSISTANCE IS AWARDED. I— II a.TYPED NAME OF AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVE I b.TITLE: Chair, Weld County c.TELEPHONE NUMBER: Barbara Kirkmeyer Bbatd of Commissioners (970)356-4000 X4200 d.SIGNATURE OF AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVE F-24 -2 /- / /�. - e.DATE SIGNED: (�' ,� / 4,--4/41C/3t. L/ �Cl�'1aY)7�(y,L./.r- /�^h/h.LCZIxC � �/ Z-, cti, /-?9ei cv, f k� �,)adAand, v 12( `(. 3// Page 1 tt For Official Use Only Narratives Executive Summary The Weld County Youth Conservation Corps (WCYCC)is located in Greeley,Colorado. Operated by the Weld County Department of Human Services and through Employment Services of Weld County (ESWC),WCYCC engages young adults,ages 17-24,to participate in an AmeriCorps program.WCYCC's AmeriCorps program strives to employ young adults,many of whom are at risk,to positively impact Weld County through community service projects and conservation efforts focusing on land,water and energy. Projects include,but are not limited to:historic restoration and preservation, maintenance and ecological restoration along Weld County's water systems, noxious species control and removal, and community beautification projects.WCYCC's AmeriCorps members have the unique opportunity to gain invaluable work maturity skills and to enhance personal development while simultaneously earning an educational award to use towards future post secondary endeavors. It's the intent of WCYCC to operate the grant from October 8, 2012 and end October 7, 2015.The expected outcomes of the project include environmental conservation, member development,members entering the workforce,and community engagement. Rationale and Approach A.NEED: The continuing growth of an at-risk youth population,the continued and increasing need for service opportunities for youth,as well as the increased need for parks/open space,trails and services to community based and faith based organizations have been identified as needs in Weld.The Weld County Youth Conservation Corps(WCYCC),through its design and mix of services to Corps members and its existing and emerging relationships with local communities, agencies,and community/faith based organizations,is positioned to positively and actively respond to these needs through the utilization of a Youth Corps model under AmeriCorps. Community needs were identified using diverse sources comprised of Federal(2010 Census,e.g.),State(Colorado State Service Plan and the Colorado Needs Assessment Report on Community Service e.g.) and local(Judicial District Profile Report, Division of Youth Corrections, e.g.)reports. Review of this data clearly indicates that Weld's youth face a major For Official Use Only Page 2 tvagg For Official Use Only Narratives social issue of an increasing population of at-risk,disenfranchised youth.With a high rate of poverty (16.9% all ages, 18.4% 18 years of age and younger and 9.5% age 65 or over),a higher dropout rate compared to the state average(Greeley/Evans dropout rate 35.8%; State average 27.6%), a high rate of adjudication and a lower median household income than other Front Range areas,Weld faces immediate challenges in positively effecting youth. In line with the 2010-2012 Unified State Service Plan,highlighting Priority Service Categories to include Civic Engagement,Veterans and Military Families and Conservation and the Environment,WCYCC, is situated to positively affect the prioritized areas. WCYCC will also address Focus Areas,including serving veterans and responding to The Kennedy Serve America Act to mobilize volunteerism.Greeley's quality of life ballot issues,passed in 2002, continue to foster projects that benefit residents of Greeley and surrounding areas.Areas from those initiatives that continue to be developed include new parks,improvement of existing parks creation of new recreational trails,plus other development and renovation projects.These initiatives continue to be the impetus for development and improvements throughout the community and the WCYCC continues to participate in these projects.The strengthening of communities through environmental and conservation projects extends to other area communities throughout Weld.WCYCC will continue to seek collaborative efforts with the State's Office of Energy Management and other potential partners,to install energy efficient compact florescent light bulbs (CFL),low flow shower heads,carbon monoxide and smoke detector units.WCYCC will also conduct Tier 1 energy audits in low income households eligible for Low Income Energy Assistance Program,focusing on veterans to lead this initiative. Promising discussions with local weatherization agencies and preliminary recruitment discussions with State Veteran representatives housed within local Workforce Centers have occurred. WCYCC continues to strive toward energy related services and is committed to enrolling veterans.The WCYCC believes that veterans possess the desired leadership skills and expertise necessary to lead energy related projects, and will build civilian relationships.Veterans also have the opportunity to engage with emerging community partners to build a foundation of a highly desirable skill set leading to For Official Use Only Page 3 For Official Use Only Narratives unsubsidized employment in the energy industry.The unique mix of services in which veterans will be engaged is an ideal solution to address community and conservation needs while simultaneously providing Veterans with the opportunity to reconnect within the community's workforce. Through the delivery of these services,the WCYCC continues to strive toward the Governor's Promise for Energy, established in 2008,by encouraging energy efficiency and conservation in low income homes.WCYCC will continue to,collaborate in proposals and provides service to meet identified community needs. It also provides much needed human needs services to agencies and faith based organizations allowing them to increase their capacity to serve area populations.WCYCC,through its AmeriCorps Youth Corps Model,supports the nation's commitment to assist individuals,families, and communities who have not shared in America's prosperity. It does so by recruiting and enrolling at-risk youth to be AmeriCorps members and through direct service, address the identified community need for parks,open space, recreational trails, improvement of Head Start facilities,assisting CBO's/FBO's in meeting the needs of the people they serve and improving county facilities.At-risk youth are in need of additional opportunities to improve their lives.Through service to their community, corps members acquire employability and job skills, in addition to the skills they acquire through member development activities.Many members need assistance in preparing for and acquiring a GED and all members benefit from life skills, citizenship,leadership,and teamwork skills gained through classroom training as well as actual service on projects. Other needs for these youth have been identified in the area of health awareness and maintenance.The Weld County Youth and Family Connections identified mentoring and conflict resolution as specific needs for this target group.The WCYCC targets at-risk/disenfranchised youth to become AmeriCorps members to positively affect this population of youth as part of the identified needs of the Corporation for National and Community Service(CNCS)through the 2011-2015 Strategic Plan,the Colorado State Service Plan of Youth Development which aligns with Kennedy SAA Education and Opportunity, and Weld's need to reduce the number of disenfranchised youth. B.VALUE ADDED AmeriCorps Member Roles and Responsibilities: Corps members are involved in service For Official Use Only Page 4 For Official Use Only Narratives projects that meet identified community needs and assist in situations when project sponsors do not have adequate staffing or volunteers. Examples of environmental and conservation projects members will provide service on include community and state parks; construction and maintenance of trails; planting trees and shrubs in parks; frost damage mitigation for saplings; removal of non-native species (in parks and open spaces), energy conservation efforts through education and marketing materials distributed to community members and schools such as installation of energy efficient compact florescent light bulbs(CFL),low flow shower heads,carbon monoxide and smoke detector units, conduct Tier 1 energy audits in low income households;water conservation through invasive species mitigation along waterways,replacements of identified low efficiency toilets with High Efficiency Toilets,focusing efforts in low socioeconomic neighborhoods; and assist in historical conservation/preservation projects to include public museums.Additional service opportunities with human service projects that provide service to community and faith based organizations, improvement of existing facilities of non-profit organizations; improvement of low income neighborhoods through cleanup activities; and assistance to community based organizations in the provision of needed services to disabled senior citizens by constructing wheel chair ramps, or helping with snow removal as needed. AmeriCorps members are instrumental in helping to meet overall community needs. Members are highly effective in meeting identified community needs with the crew based model providing a cost effective solution for community partners and in addition allowing WCYCC to perform invaluable community service. Currently,there are limited alternative opportunities for sponsors to receive assistance to meet community and environmental needs. For example,WCYCC's Sawyer(chainsaw) Crew has established strong partnerships with Weld County Public Works Weed Division and the Natural Resources Conservation Service(NRCS), Division of Wildlife etc. and completes projects that otherwise,due to limited financial resources,would not be completed. Additionally, members build a solid foundation of employment skills to build upon with future employment endeavors,thereby enhancing our future workforce.WCYCC uses crew based service learning projects as a means to afford For Official Use Only Page 5 For Official Use Only Narratives at-risk youth, ages 17-25, opportunities to provide valuable service to their communities while learning valuable skills.WCYCC will be made up of 15.03 MSY slots,where individuals will fill 20 half time(900 hours)slots,3 quarter time slots and 20 minimum time slots.The varied slot types enable WCYCC to be responsive to community needs including seasonal and emergency situations. WCYCC is committed to continuous program improvement. The requested time slots are reflective of an internal review of the program,focusing on member development and AmeriCorps completion/retention. During the last grant cycle,WCYCC was heavily invested in strategic planning both locally and statewide,to develop strategies and enabled us to continue to serving disenfranchised youth while simultaneously making their participation experience more successful and therefore increased overall member completion rate. As a result,WCYCC is practicing and realizing success with the following key strategies: 1) Enhance mentoring opportunities with at risk members by balancing the crew make up with members whose life experiences have been more positive and who have been more successful; 2)Convert full term MSY slots to part time slots that allow youth to experience short term success; 3) Structure the Corps year through the use of part time MSY slots to allow members to matriculate to post secondary education in a timely manner.Through direct service on projects,the corps provides its members the means to acquire employability and job skills and the unique opportunity to meet community needs,concurrently. Members receive project specific training prior to each project and,through member development activities, corps members are trained in leadership,teamwork,conflict resolution skills, and conservation training which they can then practice and use on the various service projects.To further develop skills, members also receive assistance and support for GED preparation,training in citizenship, disability awareness,diversity, and healthy life styles.Additionally, members receive certifications, such as S-212 Wildland Fire Chain Saws Faller Class A, CPR/ First Aid, Outdoor Stewardship Institute(OSI), 15 Passenger Van Driver Safety etc.Through direct service on energy projects, as well as projects in parks and open spaces, members are involved in environment and conservation.Job and employability skills are acquired through service projects that have a lasting and visible benefit to their communities. For Official Use Only Page 6 For Official Use Only Narratives Human services projects that assist CBO/FBO's in meeting the needs of the community provide members the ability to serve those less fortunate,thereby enhancing their understanding of the benefits of volunteerism and civic responsibility. C. EVIDENCE-BASED: The interventions in which WCYCC AmeriCorps members and volunteers will be engaged are both evidence-based and include measurable community impact. Members will be engaged in a variety of interventions that include environmental and conservation projects,energy conservation efforts,water conservation efforts,historical conservation/preservation, and human service projects that provide service to community and faith based organizations.The identified interventions were selected utilizing a process which included a review of established community needs inclusive of federal,state and local sources, input from community and project sponsors as well as the Youth Council,which is comprised of education and business leaders,local government officials and representatives from CBO/FBOs. Utilizing the Youth Corps model has proven to be a highly effective means to solve the identified interventions and has been successful,not only in Weld,but across the State of CO and throughout the United States. Long term partnerships, such as the City of Greeley, South Platte Valley Historical Society and Weld County Department of Public Works, recognize the contributions made by WCYCC AmeriCorps members. Through collaborative partnerships, successful completion of projects,targeting a variety of community needs,was possible. It has been noted many community and environmental based interventions would not be achieved without the contributions of local AmeriCorps members and volunteers.WCYCC has elected to implement nationally aligned Performance Measures. Each project/initiative in which WCYCC AmeriCorps members participate will include an end outcome identifying community impact. WCYCC will utilize project tracking spreadsheets and project/community sponsor evaluations to document and measure community impact. Measured community impact will include number of hours completed,number of miles of trails or waterways improved and/or created,estimated gallons of water saved,number of individuals that received CNCS-supported services in disaster mitigation in the event of a disaster, number of economically disadvantaged National Service Participants who are unemployed For Official Use Only Page 7 F For Official Use Only Narratives prior to their term of service, number of members who obtained their GED during their term of service, number of veterans engaged in service opportunities as a National Service Participant or volunteer, number of volunteers generated, age and or demographic volunteer information etc. D. MEMBER EXPERIENCE: WCYCC AmeriCorps members will have powerful service experiences throughout their term of service. Members will be heavily involved with a variety of projects,many of which are community service based; positively impacting both human and environmental needs while fostering the importance of continued civic participation.WCYCC has purposefully strived to educate its members in civic participation instill in them the foundational knowledge to recognize the importance of continued volunteerism throughout life after AmeriCorps. WCYCC has a collaborative partnership with the Colorado Youth Corps Association(CYCA) Good Works for Youth Program to host VISTA members. To date,WCYCC has been a host site to two VISTA members; one VISTA having successfully completed her term of service as of August 2011, a second year VISTA began his term August 2011 and a third begins in November 2011.One of the identified priorities is to enhance specifically outlined priorities regarding civic engagement to include member development, collaborative opportunities,life after AmeriCorps as well as the generation of volunteerism all of which will aid in the process of capacity building.Applying the orientation process for all AmeriCorps members,members will be provided with detailed AmeriCorps information.They will be instructed in what it means to serve as an AmeriCorps member,locally, regionally,and nationally.WCYCC AmeriCorps members are, and will continue to be, sworn into their term of service adding value to their commitment. Members will be empowered with the knowledge and foresight to provide accurate AmeriCorps information to community members, partners and the general public.WCYCC has multiple collaborative partnerships within our community which provide WCYCC AmeriCorps members with opportunity to connect with other AmeriCorps members. WCYCC has partnered with United Way of Weld County in numerous capacities, including collaborative efforts with their VISTA program. WCYCC's VISTA is currently working towards the development of a Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service project and activities for AmeriCorps Week and For Official Use Only Page 8 For Official Use Only Narratives has secured collaborative partnerships which include United Way of Weld County, UCAN Serve AmeriCorps,hosted by CO Campus Compact at UNC and Retired and Senior Volunteer Program. WCYCC members also participate in Youth Corps training opportunities which are inclusive of multiple Youth Corps across the State of CO as well as neighboring states including UT,AZ and NM. Program management staff has been trained to facilitate civic reflection activities through the Project on Civic Reflection. Corps members will participate in a monthly civic reflection activity. Each month varying focal points(readings, art,events,songs, etc.)will be utilized to facilitate reflection activities which draw attention to include environment, service,human nature,justice,volunteerism,community,etc. Through discussions of reflection, members will become more attune to their own role in civil service and their lifelong civic responsibility.WCYCC will foster a sense of connection and identity with the AmeriCorps brand using multiple strategies in an effort to maximize the number of community members and partners who will learn more about AmeriCorps. In effort to raise awareness of AmeriCorps and local programming,WCYCC publishes ongoing newsletters highlighting projects, member and staff accomplishments, upcoming service opportunities etc. Newsletters are sent electronically to each Weld County employee, numerous community partners,project sponsors, multiple CO Youth Corps programs,Colorado Youth Corps Association, Serve Colorado, and WCYCC Alumni and are posted on the Weld County website as well as placed in public areas of ESWC,the local Workforce Center. WCYCC has also made inroads with media streams and has had several articles published in local newspapers to include,the Greeley Tribune, Longmont Times, and Fort Lupton Press. Additionally,partnerships have provided WCYCC opportunities to provide the community with AmeriCorps program information via partner newsletters or reports highlighting services provided by WCYCC AmeriCorps members,including Colorado State Parks, CYCA, South Platte Valley Historical Society,Child Advocacy Resource and Education(c.a.r.e.)and United Way of Weld County. WCYCC provides all AmeriCorps members with a uniform within the first few days of beginning their term of service. The uniforms serve as the means for community members and sponsors to identify them as For Official Use Only Page 9 For Official Use Only Narratives local AmeriCorps members. Along with the WCYCC logo,uniforms reflect a large color screen printed AmeriCorps logo on the uniform. The AmeriCorps logo is also embroidered on winter coats of all AmeriCorps members. The local webpage for WCYCC is inclusive of general local AmeriCorps information and includes links to AmeriCorps, Serve Colorado and the CNCS to further promote the AmeriCorps brand. E. OVERALL PICTURE: Community needs,as stated above and identified through diverse sources such as Federal(2010 Census, e.g.), State(Colorado State Service Plan and the Colorado Needs Assessment Report on Community Service e.g.) and local(Judicial District Profile Report, Division of Youth Corrections, e.g.) reports.A review of this data clearly indicates that Weld County and its youth face the major social issue of an increasing population of at-risk,disenfranchised youth.With a high rate of poverty(16.9% all ages; 18.4%for those 18 years of age and younger and 9.5%of those age 65 or over), a higher dropout rate compared to the state average(Greeley/Evans dropout rate 35.8%; State average 27.6%), a high rate of adjudication and a lower median household income than other Front Range areas,Weld County faces immediate challenges in positively effecting youth.The Weld County Youth Conservation Corps(WCYCC)through its design and mix of services to corps members, its existing and emerging relationships with local communities,agencies, and community/faith based organizations,is positioned to positively and actively respond to these needs through the utilization of a Youth Corps model under AmeriCorps. WCYCC targets at-risk/disenfranchised youth to become AmeriCorps members to positively affect this population of youth as part of the identified needs of the CNCS through the 2011-2015 Strategic Plan,the Colorado State Service Plan of Youth Development which aligns with Kennedy SAA Education and Opportunity and Weld County's need to reduce the number of disenfranchised youth. Initiatives to be addressed by WCYCC AmeriCorps members include, but are not limited to: environmental and conservation projects,energy conservation efforts,water conservation efforts,historical conservation preservation, and human service projects that provide service to community and faith based organizations.There is a strong linkage between the identified needs and the interventions to be carried out by AmeriCorps members and community volunteers, as For Official Use Only Page 10 For Official Use Only Narratives well as connections with the ways in which AmeriCorps members are particularly well-suited to deliver the intervention and the anticipated outcomes. Enrolling at-risk/disenfranchised members to address the identified initiatives enables WCYCC to maximize community impact by concurrently effecting both members and the community.Members are reconnected to their community and can be viewed by the community and themselves as part of the solution rather than part of the problem.Members develop invaluable employment skills and experience while enhancing personal skills through member development activities.WCYCC has strong community partnerships with local VISTA and AmeriCorps programs, as well as a variety of sources to enhance and generate volunteerism to meet the overall needs of Weld. Community partnerships expose members to widespread opportunities linking members with other local AmeriCorps members as well as with fundamental partners who provide WCYCC members with opportunities for continued civic participation.WCYCC members will be empowered with the skills and knowledge necessary to successfully address and positively impact identified community needs. Anticipated outcomes include environmental conservation,member development,members entering the workforce, and community engagement. F.AMERICORPS MEMBER SELECTION,TRAINING, AND SUPERVISION: WCYCC has streamlined the member selection process with the assistance of VISTA members. Historically,WCYCC has served underrepresented populations such as low-income individuals,individuals with limited education and/or employment history,individuals with disabilities and members of faith-based organizations.WCYCC has initiated partnerships and has established an in- road with local veteran's representatives to increase veteran member enrollment.Through an internal review and continued improvement efforts,WCYCC has increased member retention.Member retention for the program year Oct 2010--Oct 2011,WCYCC enrolled a total of 47 members (10o%enrollment met)and had 85%of members successfully complete their term of service.The previous year,Oct 2009 - Oct 2010,WCYCC enrolled a total of 47 members(100%enrollment met) and 83%of members successfully completed their terms of service. Potential applicants are referred to WCYCC's AmeriCorps program by various agencies including the 19th Judicial Court District,Youth In Conflict Division of For Official Use Only Page 11 D RAFT For Official Use Only Narratives Human Services,Youth&Family Connections, Multidisciplinary Youth Assessment Team(MYAT), Connections for Independent Living, Envision, Habitat for Humanity,Transitional House,Guadalupe Shelter,Veteran Representatives,Temporary Assistance for Needy Families(TANF), Employment First/Food Stamps,Disability Program Navigator,Workforce Investment Act(WIA),and United Way. There are also those who come to apply,having heard of the WCYCC through the local Workforce Centers(Greeley, Ft Lupton and Dacono), and online.VISTA members and WCYCC staff attend local youth job fairs,high school career fairs etc.,in effort to increase community awareness and enhance recruitment efforts. Additionally, an e-mail blast is sent to referring agencies as well as to local Youth Net providers(facilitated by the City of Greeley)within Weld, is included in quarterly Faith Based newsletters,Weld County employee newsletters and WCYCC newsletters.Although applications submitted through MyAmeriCorps is the preferred method, in an effort to assure AmeriCorps members have equal opportunities throughout the application phase, and WCYCC initially accepts paper applications,resumes, and phone and/or walk-in applicants for consideration for open AmeriCorps positions.Applications initially screened for face to face interviews are made available to all applicants within reason. It is recognized that for many WCYCC AmeriCorps applicants,this is their first employment experience;therefore we strive to be inclusive of all applicants in an effort to provide individuals with experience essential for future employment opportunities.WCYCC specifically enrolls underrepresented individuals from low-income populations, individuals with limited education and/or employment history,individuals with disabilities,veterans and members of faith-based organizations. Weld's population reflects diversity; as a result,WCYCC has and will continue to enroll approximately 65%of its members from minority groups,with the majority being represented by Hispanics.WCYCC AmeriCorps members are provided with an initial orientation phase,typically 4-5 days. Continued member development,including workshops and certifications,will take place throughout members' terms of service.The orientation provides members with the opportunity to establish relationships with other members,while learning crucial information as it pertains to AmeriCorps,WCYCC, and their For Official Use Only Page 12 For Official Use Only Narratives positions in general and preliminary training specific to assigned crew. Orientation details include team building exercises,living on a stipend/budgeting,AmeriCorps history inclusive of local, regional and current program year,prohibited AmeriCorps activities,completion of all forms(enrollment, eligibility, citizenship,background checks,medical consent, permission to participate, food stamp eligibility application and information) review of the Weld County employee policies and procedures such as drug free workplace and harassment etc.,review of member handbook, explanation of professionalism expectations, uniforms issued etc.To ensure a positive member experience,WCYCC continuously reviews member development curriculum to make modifications and/or additions.Members are also provided with multiple opportunities to provide input and guidance regarding member development opportunities in which they are interested.As a result, career panel workshops were facilitated during the 2010-2011 program year. Career panel members were selected through a survey that members completed regarding career paths of interest. Members receive project specific training prior to beginning each project. Such training may consist of general overview of the scope,safety on worksite, history/background info, etc. or may be a specialized training,such as a course on non-native species to be removed,chemical treatment training, chainsaw certification,toilet replacement training/certification etc. Using a Youth Corps model,members are assigned to crews which are typically comprised of eight members plus one Crew Leader.The Crew Leader is a paid full time staff person who provides project training,daily oversight and support.Throughout the day, Crew Leaders are with members on site. Crew Leaders often take on a mentor and leadership role,while the Team Leader provides supervision to each crew and Crew Leader. Disciplinary action, if needed,is the role of the Team Leader and/or the Director of the program.Crew Leader and Team Leader positions are selected using the Weld County hiring process which includes extensive background checks and ergo- medical physical evaluations.All WCYCC staff are provided with training to include CPR, First Aid, Disability Awareness,Conflict Resolution, Leadership Training, Drivers Safety,Outdoor Stewardship Institute(OSI)training, statewide Crew Leader Trainings, Pesticide Applicator training,Wildlands Fire For Official Use Only Page 13 D RAF For Official Use Only Narratives Chain Saws certification, CERT,Gang Reduction Initiative of Denver(GRID),Suicide Prevention,Child Labor Laws etc.WCYCC staff,in conjunction with the management team, establishes training goals each year;for example, obtaining Red Card Certification for Emergency Preparedness facilitated and funded by WCYCC.Crew Leader's participation in monthly meetings with the Team Leader and Director and an extensive annual performance review to include input from AmeriCorps members,Team Leader,project sponsors,training facilitators etc is conducted for all staff. Daily communication between Crew Leader, Team Leader and/or Director occurs and monthly reviews of all staff is formally documented and included in annual performance reviews. G. OUTCOME: PERFORMANCE MEASURES Established Performance Measures(PM's)include Economic Opportunity(012 and 015) and Environmental Stewardship(EN5) as identified in the 2012 National Performance Measures(NPM's).As instructed by Serve Colorado,WCYCC will also include Member Development as a statewide initiative to be tracked through OnCorps reporting. In effort to include fully aligned NPM's, end outcomes were included in each NPM although an appropriate dropdown box was not available within eGrants.WCYCC will continue to actively recruit and engage at-risk, disenfranchised youth as WCYCC AmeriCorps members. Enrolling the underserved population provides opportunities to youth who would otherwise likely not gain the essential skills necessary to successfully transition into the workforce.WCYCC will increase participation each year in trail,waterway and volunteer projects designed to increase/generate community civic engagement.Through veteran initiatives,WCYCC will be viewed as a strong community and regional partner. Impact will be measured, reported bi-annually and will demonstrate impact. Data will be collected from each project and entered into appropriate collection tools to include internal excel tracking logs, OnCorps etc.to efficiently and accurately report collective information to the State Commission and the CNCS. PM targets were determined in conjunction with identified community needs;project based collaborative initiatives as well as regionally aligned and identified initiatives to include the Platte Invasives Endeavor(PIE)Plan for the South Platte Watershed.WCYCC has had significant regional impact and has been recognized as providing the region with quality For Official Use Only Page 14 For Official Use Only Narratives services highlighting services provided by the WCYCC Chain Saw Crew for removing invasive species along waterways as cost effective. During the 2010-2011 program year, evidence based impact includes, but is not limited to: 64 acres of Russian Olive trees removed along the Big Thompson River,3o trees removed and 75 trees hauled from Division of Wildlife at the Wray Fish Hatchery,responded to and prepared for flooding along the Poudre River, 20,492 hours of direct service, 2,569 hours of indirect service and 43 volunteers leveraged.As a result of the successful completion of previous sawyer based projects, additional collaborative efforts included a regional partnership with Ducks Unlimited and the South Platte River habitat restoration initiative. H.VOLUNTEER GENERATION: The WCYCC AmeriCorps program will recruit volunteers in various capacities to help meet established community needs to be responsive to emerging community needs as appropriate,and to aid in the process of member development. WCYCC's VISTA is currently working toward the development of a Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service and coordinating activities for AmeriCorps Week. Collaborative partnerships have been secured for the two events,including United Way of Weld County, UCAN Serve AmeriCorps hosted by CO Campus Compact at the University of Northern Colorado (UNC)and Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP).We will continue to partner and/or recruit from current partnerships and collaborative agencies while continuing to expand our outreach in the community for additional volunteers and opportunities.WCYCC VISTA volunteers have established foundations over the past 14 months specifically to increase the volunteer generation for WCYCC and Weld.Volunteer projects,meeting the needs of the community,will include specifically aligned days of service to include CO Cares Day,Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service, Cesar Chavez Day of Service and Learning and September iith Day of Service.Additional areas of focus include Arbor Day, Earth Day, as well as a variety of community service opportunities to meet environmental and community needs which include trail maintenance/ development,non-profit building and exterior maintenance/development,local school improvement of grounds or surrounding areas, graffiti removal, etc.AmeriCorps members will primarily aid in recruitment efforts by informing their friends and family of the service opportunities. For Official Use Only Page 15 R :9 . ?AA .3 For Official Use Only Narratives Identified members will work alongside VISTA'S and community volunteers focusing on capacity building.AmeriCorps members will be actively engaged in community service events with volunteers, building capacity, maximizing impact, and raising community awareness of AmeriCorps.VISTA's and identified AmeriCorps members will act as coordinators to schedule, organize, recruit,track and measure the impact of each project. I.TUTORING PORGRAMS N/A Organizational Capability A.ORGANIZATIONAL BACKGROUND AND STAFFING:The primary contact for the grant application is Tami Grant,Youth Program Manager of Employment Services of Weld County(ESWC) and AmeriCorps program Director.The secondary contact for the grant application is Erik Warrington, WCYCC Team Leader. Esther Gesick,Clerk to the Board, is the authorized individual to submit the grant application upon receipt of Board approval and the official grant recipient for all funding is the Board of Weld County Commissioners. ESWC,a Division within the Department of Human Services(DHS)has been operating federal and state funded employment and training programs for OVER 30 years and has extensive experience with program design, implementation, delivery,evaluation and financial management. Grant management is provided by DHS,fiscal oversight for all programs operated by DHS is provided by the Department's Fiscal Officer.There have been no audit exceptions with any programs operated under ESWC over its 30 years of existence. Many programs have been recognized as models for program implementation across the State. Programs currently operated by ESWC include Wagner- Peyser basic labor exchange,Workforce Investment Act(WIA) Programs for Youth,Adults and Dislocated Workers,Temporary Assistance for Needy Families(TANF) Program,Employment First/Food Stamp Job Search Program, and the WCYCC program which includes various youth corps programs such as the TIGHT Program, and AmeriCorps Program. Oversight for programs operated by ESWC is provided by the Weld County Workforce Development Board(WCWDB),comprised of leaders in the community from the public and private arenas.The WCYCC has operated the AmeriCorps program for nine years and youth corps model programs for 16.The AmeriCorps program and its For Official Use Only Page 16 vA For Official Use Only Narratives members have accomplished a tremendous amount of work for the communities and organizations it serves. Historically,the AmeriCorps program has exceeded the goals for environmental projects and has received ratings from project sponsors that exceed the anticipated rate of satisfaction. Since the WCYCC program is a youth corps model,members typically work as a team, although,they can simultaneously work in a number of team settings at specific sites to meet multiple community needs on projects throughout Weld County. In addition to receiving funding from sources other than CNCS,WCYCC AmeriCorps is capable of raising funds to meet and/or exceed match requirements.The WCYCC AmeriCorps Program Year ending October 2011 resulted with WCYCC exceeding match requirements set at 46%,fully expending allocated CNCS award and enrolling t00%of members.The major sources of match funds have been program income received from fee-for-service projects as well as matching funds from the WIA Youth Program to cover staff salary and fringe costs not paid by corporation funds. In the past WIA Youth dollars have covered the grantee share of personnel expenses, member travel, equipment,supplies, staff and member training,plus other program costs. Program income from fee- for-service agreements has covered the grantee share for member living allowances,member insurance coverage, member support costs,member training,program supplies etc. However,as fee-for-service projects have increased,the amount of WIA funds used to cover the staff costs has, and will continue to be,lowered.There has not been any difficulty in securing match resources required to meet match requirements. It's anticipated due to the expanding fee-for-service projects with the invasive species removal and specifically the chainsaw crew,WCYCC will be able to continue meeting future match requirements.The total percentage of the proposed AmeriCorps project represents 2.5%of the total ESWC budget,which is consistent with the current CNCS funding received. Board of Directors, ESWC Admin and Staff,the WCWDB and the Youth Council(YC)provide oversight of the WCYCC Program and have assisted in the design and development of the Corps.Both entities are comprised of community, education and business leaders,local government officials as well as representatives from CBO/FBOs.The DHS Fiscal Officer reports directly to the Executive Director of DHS to provide fiscal For Official Use Only Page 17 For Official Use Only Narratives oversight and fiscal management of the program and the DHS Director reports directly to the Board of Weld County Commissioners,the official grant recipient of the funding.The WCYCC AmeriCorps Program is a program offered through ESWC and is efficiently integrated and well supported within the Division.As a result,members are exposed to other programs and services to assist them in achieving their goals. AmeriCorps staff collaborates with case managers,workshop facilitators,Assessment and Learning Lab staff,etc.to co-enroll eligible members appropriate for available services. ESWC operates an Assessment and Learning Lab where members may increase personal skills including GED preparation,GED pre-testing, CareerReady Colorado Certification,Microsoft Tutorials,Typing Tutors, Career Assessments, Employment Inventory,WorkGo!, "Bring Your A Game To Work" Certification, etc. WCYCC has operated a successful AmeriCorps Program focusing member development opportunities to at-risk/disenfranchised youth.WCYCC believes in continuous improvement and collaborates frequently with Youth Corps across CO to implement statewide successful practices locally. As a result, in recent program years,WCYCC has consistently increased member retention, as follows: 2008-2009 AmeriCorps: 55% retention; 2009 ARRA AmeriCorps: 58% retention; 2009-2010 AmeriCorps: 69% retention; 2010-2011 AmeriCorps: 83% retention.WCYCC's goal is to achieve the highest member retention rate possible,while serving an underserved and difficult population,maximizing the effect AmeriCorps has in our community.The 2010-2011 AmeriCorps project and activity highlights include, but are not limited to: 20,492 hours of direct service, 2,569 hours of indirect service,leveraged 43 volunteers,five of which are considered baby boomers, 8 corps members' responded to natural disaster (flooding),two members obtained their GED,three additional members increased basic skills levels and continue to work toward obtaining their GEDs, 64 acres of Russian Olive trees removed along the Big Thompson River,replacement of 245 toilets to conserve water, construction of an amphitheatre to be used for environmental education/awareness and trail maintenance at St Vrain State Park. In addition, three AmeriCorps members provided 10 weeks(40 hrs per week)of peer mentoring to 16 adjudicated and or at-risk youth participants, outside of AmeriCorps. Services delivered included basic skills For Official Use Only Page 18 For Official Use Only Narratives remediation,life skill development, socialization skills,basic work maturity, environmental education and healthy life styles.WCYCC was also responsive to the Windsor Tornado by deploying the Chain Saw Crew to aid in clean-up efforts along with all other crews to work within the communities affected by the natural disaster.WCYCC AmeriCorps has had no compliance issues.With current staff on board for the past three years, responsiveness has increased and reports are submitted early or on time.The WCYCC AmeriCorps program is comprised of three staff positions: Corps Director,Youth Team Leader and Crew Leader,as needed seasonal crew leaders are recruited and hired to meet community and project needs,typically during the summer months.The Youth Team Leader was previously a crew leader for the adjudicated youth corps operated by ESWC for approximately two years and has been the Team Leader for over three years.The Team Leader has an extensive background in working with young adults and is well acquainted with community agencies and organizations.The Crew Leader was selected for the AmeriCorps Program Year 2008-2009 and has extensive background working with youth from all socio-economic backgrounds.The Crew Leader is skilled in supervising,leading and mentoring young adults and has a good knowledge relating to work done by the Corps.The Corps Director directly supervises the Youth Team Leader and the Crew Leader as well as the staff of other youth programs operated by ESWC.The Director of the Corps has been in the position for over three years and has over to years of additional experience working with youth in federally funded programs,including WIA Youth and the TANF Programs.Approximately zo%of the Director's time is spent on Corps activities. The Youth Team Leader spends about 60%of his time on Corps activities including supervising the Crew Leader,project development,preparing and conducting weekly training for crew members and report preparation.The Crew Leader spends i00%of her time on Corps activities providing direct supervision of crew members and overseeing the day-to-day operation of the WCYCC.In addition to the three AmeriCorps staff members,two full time Crew Leaders supervise non-AmeriCorps crews and a qualified WIA Case Manager act as a back-up Crew Leader to ensure members are well supervised in the absence of AmeriCorps staff or to provide additional assistance in the event of emergencies.There are For Official Use Only Page 19 For Official Use Only Narratives no current position vacancies.WCYCC AmeriCorps staff and related fiscal staff will participate in all available and appropriate training opportunities to include annual Program Managers Institute(s),fiscal training facilitated by Serve Colorado or CNCS, State Service Conference,monthly conference calls etc. WCYCC AmeriCorps has achieved accreditation through the Colorado Youth Corps Association(CYCA) since 2000.CYCA provides annual program reviews in addition to the reviews completed by Serve Colorado,provides guidance regarding program management, risk management, reporting and as a means to share best practices,peer reviewers from Youth Corps across the State.WCYCC does not have separate service sites.The strength of this program is its relationship with community agencies and organizations. Knowledge of local and state resources and the willingness of these resources to assist has not been an issue in securing technical assistance. Collaboration with the community has provided Corps management opportunities to provide technical assistance in relation to potential service projects. The Corps plans to continue to approach each potential service project with the questions: what is it to be done;what is the timeline; what more do we need to do the project effectively, and what is the end result of the project?Answers to these questions determine the viability of Corps involvement of the project and provide a framework for any necessary technical assistance.Technical assistance is sought from the appropriate source as determined advisable or necessary and may be implemented as training sessions for members,training or orientation for the Crew Leader and/or project sponsor, as information assistance for all involved.The management team, in collaboration with sponsors, determines the need for, and the type of,assistance.The Director often seeks technical assistance through the AmeriCorps national web site and the available resources listed,especially Project Star.This has been, and will continue to be, a valuable resource,especially in preparing performance measurement and updating procedures.WCYCC receives fewer funds than required for external evaluations and therefore,has completed internal evaluations of the program.WCYCC continuously assesses its effectiveness in the delivery of services to its project sponsors as well as the effect projects has on its corps members. Project evaluations completed by project sponsors rate quality of the work,benefit to For Official Use Only Page 20 For Official Use Only Narratives the sponsor,cost savings and overall evaluation of the crew's effectiveness,and reflect the number of service hours provided. Member development evaluations include the number of members achieving the development outputs/outcomes, e.g. GED, certificates obtained from member development training, etc. Evaluation results are reviewed with a management team debriefing and against outputs/outcomes to determine the need for program improvement alterations or adjustments. Evaluations of the programs structure,target populations,services,performance,other program functions,as well as provide general oversight by the WCWDB and the WCYC. External fiscal audits are provided through the county's arrangement for external auditing of programs.As a result of internal evaluations the WCYCC identified a number of areas for program improvement and strengthening.As a result of implementation of areas of program improvement and strengthening,WCYCC has realized increased retention of members and no compliance issues. B. SUSTAINABILITY: Through fee-for-service dollars, non-federal financial support comes to the program for service performed on specified projects.As Great Outdoor Colorado, to develop parks,trails, and open space,funds are made available to local communities;WCYCC will continue to collaborate with our community partners to be built in to the work components as appropriate.Non-federal funds also come through some services provided to local communities and State negotiated projects.The Corps plans to continue to seek and access these funds and types of funding sources.WCYCC will continue to partner with communities and CYCA for additional fee for service projects.WCYCC continues to operate and expand its community collaborations and fee-for-service opportunities.This reflected in the history of the Corps and the WCYCC continues to work toward the goal of 50%match by year ten,in accordance with Corporation Guidelines.WCYCC has consistently collaborated with a number of CBOs, United Way,Weld Food Bank,Salvation Army,Catholic Charities, Habitat for Humanity, and Weld County Health Department. Through these collaborative efforts,WCYCC has developed a relationship of reliable,quality service and mutual support for projects,thus allowing the Corps to provide focused,valid, necessary services to Weld communities.The CBO/FBOs and other agencies identify needs and service targets that will meet For Official Use Only Page 21 For Official Use Only Narratives the needs of target populations in addition to identifying expected outcomes.They provide whatever support they can,as appropriate.These collaborations signify community investment synergistically extend the reach that may not be otherwise available to the citizens of Weld County.The range of community stakeholders in the WCYCC is wide and diverse.Through the WCWDB,the Corps is able to access a range of government,business (small and large); educational leaders as well as a number of CBOs and FBOs and thus build a stakeholder pool.Through ESWC,connections with area employers, the Corps is further able to expand its stakeholder population and identification of future potential projects.The variety of project sponsors creates an even further group of diverse stakeholders. Ultimately,the people of Weld County(252,825 according to 2010 US Census)who have benefited from Corps services comprise the largest group of stakeholders.Non-financial support comes in the form of participation in the Corps,either as a project sponsor, or by providing feedback input connecting the activities and direction of the Corps.The WCWDB has assumed a great deal of responsibility in the design of the Corps, its target membership and activity mission.As the Corps becomes increasingly more known and recognizable, its stakeholder base has become more diverse and broader in scope. Members will be directly involved in volunteer recruitment and will recruit from local service organizations'pools of youth, as well as agencies serving individuals with disabilities. It is also important that volunteers reflect ethnic and gender diversity.When a project may require more assistance to expand the Corps' capacity,volunteers are sought,oriented and/or trained to assist. Care is taken in properly preparing a volunteer to participate in a project, not only for the effectiveness of their assistance but to provide them with a rewarding experience. C. COMPLIANCE AND ACCOUNTABILITY:The organizational structure of the DHS aids in the processes to ensure WCYCC AmeriCorps, and all operating programs, are well within compliance to include adhering with the AmeriCorps rules and regulations. As previously noted,WCYCC continuously assesses its effectiveness in the delivery of services,including the general oversight provided by the WCWDB and the YC in addition to reviews/audits conducted by Serve Colorado to ensure WCYCC remains well within For Official Use Only Page 22 mr For Official Use Only Narratives compliance standards; external fiscal audits are provided through a county arrangement for external auditing of programs.There have been no audit exceptions in programs operated under ESWC during its 3o years of existence. Furthermore, many programs have been recognized as models for program implementation across the State.Throughout all reviews,both internal and external, and in effort to practice continuous improvement,WCYCC will make and receive guidance regarding program compliance and accountability.To maintain transparency,the Director and Team Leader of the WCYCC will implement program modifications as necessary and will ensure program compliance,which will be reported to the Division Head and Director of DHS as well as the WCWDB and YC.WCYCC utilizes extreme caution as it relates to prohibited activities and has no history of breaching established and well defined guidelines.WCYCC will work closely with Serve Colorado regarding specific issues as needed to ensure compliance is maintained.WCYCC, as part of Weld County Government,follows guidelines surrounding similar topics of interest and is prohibited as defined by the County Commissioners and written in Weld County's policies and procedures. Subgrantees and service site locations are not applicable for WCYCC. D.MULTI-STATE APPLICANTS ONLY: N/A E. ENROLLMENT AND RETENTION: WCYCC achieved i00%member enrollment during the last full year of program operation.WCYCC targets, recruits and enrolls members who are considered to be at- risk/disenfranchised youth.As a result,maintaining i00%of retention is extremely difficult.WCYCC believes in continuous improvement,has implemented program changes upon completion of a self assessment and collaborates frequently with Youth Corps across CO to implement locally statewide successful practices.As a result,WCYCC has consistently increased member retention during each of the recent program years,most recently during 2010-2011 when WCYCC AmeriCorps realized 83% retention rate.WCYCC's goal is to achieve the highest possible member retention rate while continuing to serve an underserved and difficult population in effort to maximize the overall impact AmeriCorps has in our community. F. PERFORMANCE TARGETS AND DEMONSTRATED COMPLIANCE: Objectives during 2010-2011 program year resulted in t00%performance achievement. Established For Official Use Only Page 23 a For Official Use Only Narratives Performance Measures(PM's)included: Member Skill Development, Environmental Projects-Other,CO Statewide Member Development and Environmental Projects-Energy.Although no compliance issues were identified internally or externally, internal reviews of PM's combined with the effort to align with nationally established guidelines has resulted in WCYCC modifying proposed PM's.G. OPERATING SITES AND MEMBER SERVICE SITES: N/A H.SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES: Included under cost effectiveness and budget adequacy's special circumstances. Cost Effectiveness and Budget Adequacy A.COST EFFECTIVENESS: This proposal requests funding for 15 MSY's;WCYCC is currently operating with 15 MSY's.The proposed cost per MSY is less than the maximum allowable cost as published in the CNCS application instructions however; it's higher than the requested amount in the previous grant cycle.The increase requested is necessary to continue operating a variety of AmeriCorps crews.The Chain Saw Crew required specialized certifications and expensive protective wear and tools.WCYCC's ability to operate multiple crews simultaneously diversifies project scopes,provides opportunities to collaborate regionally,promotes WCYCC's abilities to respond to community needs and ultimately facilitates capacity building. B. CURRENT GRANTEES ONLY: Non-federal financial support comes to the program through fee for service dollars for service performed on specified projects.As Great Outdoor Colorado (GOCO)funds are made available to local communities to develop parks,trails, and open space,the WCYCC will continue to collaborate with our community partners to be built in to the work components as appropriate.Non-federal funds also come through some services provided to local communities and through State negotiated projects.The Corps plans to continue to seek these funds and types of funding sources. Current projected partnerships include,but are not limited to: City of Greeley, Town of Windsor,Natural Resources Conservation Service(NRCS), GOCO projects and a regional partnership with Ducks Unlimited.The WCYCC will continue to partner with communities and the Colorado Youth Corps Association for additional fee for service projects.As the WCYCC continues to operate, collaborations have continued to expand and have achieved increases in fee for service For Official Use Only Page 24 if For Official Use Only Narratives opportunities.This has been shown through the history of the Corps In this grant proposal we have a 50%match and is slightly above the Corporation's contribution for ten year grantees.A total of $202,198 will be contributed from non-CNCS resources of which $117,279 will be a mixture of in-kind and cash generated from a variety of project contracts. In-kind sources include state funds contributed by the Workforce Investment Act(WIA)Youth Program and allocated to staff salaries.Cash generated from various private and state funds will be utilized for member support services;the proposed grantee budget for member support is $84,919. C. SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES: ESWC administrates the WCYCC and has served the County and its citizens for over 30 years.Weld County,historically known as a rural community,is one of the fastest growing areas in the State of CO and has a high poverty rate of 18.4%of youth ages 18 and under living below the poverty level, and an 16.9%overall poverty rate.Weld has limited large corporate resources and existing resources are spread thin among the population. Through partnerships with Division of Wildlife and a new collaborative partnership with Ducks Unlimited,WCYCC will be improving wildlife habitats and waterways in Weld, Logan, Morgan, Sedgwick and Yuma Counties. D. BUDGET ADEQUACY: The budget(current)has been adequate to provide the array of services and member development.With the extent of partnerships built, additional partnerships anticipated and program design, it is anticipated that the budget under this grant proposal will be adequate to continue a strong program. Evaluation Summary or Plan The WCYCC receives funds that are less than those required for an external evaluation and therefore has completed internal evaluations of the program.The WCYCC continuously assesses its effectiveness in the delivery of services to its project sponsors and the effect that it has on its corps members. Project evaluations completed by project sponsors rate the quality of the work,benefit to the sponsor,the cost savings and the overall evaluation of the crew's effectiveness. Evaluations also include the number of service hours provided. Member development evaluation includes the number of members achieving the development outputs/outcomes, e.g. GED,certificates obtained from member development training, For Official Use Only Page 25 For Official Use Only Narratives etc.All of these evaluation results are reviewed immediately against outputs/outcomes with a management team debriefing to determine the need for program improvement alterations or adjustments. Evaluations of the programs structure,target populations, services,performance, other program functions, as well as general oversight are provided by the Weld County Workforce Development Board and the Youth Council. External fiscal audits are provided through the county's arrangement for external auditing of programs.As a result of the internal evaluations the WCYCC program identified a number of areas for program improvement and strengthening.As indicated previously in this proposal,since 2007 the WCYCC has been heavily invested in strategic planning both locally and statewide to develop strategies to allow us to continue to serve disenfranchised youth while also making their experience more successful and to increase the member completion rate.As a result of this planning,we developed key strategies which were implemented for the 2008-2009 program year and which we will continue monitor, evaluate and adjust for future crews: i) Balance the crew make up with youth whose life experiences have been more positive and who have been more successful to enhance mentoring opportunities with the at risk youth; 2)Convert a number of our full term MSY slots to part time slots to allow youth to experience short term success; 3) Structure the corps year through the use of part time MSY slots to allow youth to matriculate to post secondary education sooner. Retention rates have greatly improved as a result of the changes and are committed to pursue the highest retention rates possible. Amendment Justification N/A Clarification Summary N/A Continuation Changes N/A For Official Use Only Page 26 T For Official Use Only Performance Measures Grant Characteristics AmeriCorps Member Population-Comrr x I AmeriCorps Member Population - Low-in AmeriCorps Member Population - Memb AmeriCorps Member Population -Native AmeriCorps Member Population - New A AmeriCorps Member Population-Older, AmeriCorps Member Population -Peoplk AmeriCorps Member Population- Rural I AmeriCorps Member Population-Vetere AmeriCorps Member Population- None Geographic Focus- Rural Geographic Focus- Urban Encore Program Focus Areas Capacity Building Education Selected for National Measure Selected for National Measure Healthy Futures x Environmental Stewardship Selected for National Measure Selected for National Measure x Veterans and Military Families x Economic Opportunity Selected for National Measure Selected for National Measure x Other Disaster Services Selected for National Measure Selected for National Measure Grand Total of all MSYs entered for all Focus Areas 15.03 Service Categories Park Facilities/Trail Improvement Employment Services For Official Use Only Page 27 For Official Use Only National Performance Measures Focus Area: Economic Opportunity Strategy to Achieve Results Briefly describe how you will achieve this result(Max 4,000 chars.) WCYCC AmeriCorps will recruit and enroll economically disadvantaged National Service Participants. Targeted recruitment and outreach strategies will be implemented to ensure that potential participants meet identified eligibility requirements. In order to do this successfully, WCYCC will utilize its resources available'in-house'to assist in confirming status claims made by potential participants on their program application. Working within a Colorado Workforce Center and under the Weld County Department of Human Services allows WCYCC to work closely with TANF case managers, WIA case managers, our registration and intake processing units (TANF, Employment First, Food Stamps, Medicaid, etc.), and provides access to Colorado's W6 employment verification database to confirm unemployment history. Utilizing these resources, along with established hiring practices, WCYCC will be successful in enrolling economically disadvantaged National Service Participants to complete their terms of service while enrolled in AmeriCorps. Result: Intermediate Outcome Result. 100% of members will participate in member development activities. 75%of members will report increased employment sills as a direct result of member development activities. As a result, 50% of economically disadvantaged members will transition into gainful and sustainable employment within 12 months of completing their term of service. Indicator: END OUTCOME: Combined O12 and O15 National Performance Measures Target :50% of members, who are unemployed and meet the identified eligibility requirements,will have received member development activities and as a result will obtain gainful and sustainable employment within 12 months of completing their term of service. Target Value: 50 Instruments: Collaboration with WIA and TANF case managers, program staff will provide active case management during and post exit. Through exit surveys and post service follow-up, data will be collected to ensure successful transition into employment with continued case management as needed. PM Statement:50% of the identified econdomically disadvantaged members will obrtain gainful employment within 12 months of successfully completing their term of service. Program staff will follow-up to obtain verification of successful employment. Result: Output Result. WCYCC will recruit and enroll economically disadvantaged individuals as National Service Participants, to successfully complete an AmeriCorps term of service. Indicator: O12: Members unemployed prior to service. For Official Use Only Page 28 DRAF7 For Official Use Only National Performance Measures Result. Target :75 % of enrolled corps members will meet the identified eligibility requirements of economically disadvantaged participants. Target Value: 75 Instruments: WCYCC will utilize a supplemental application to aid in the determination of eligibility prior to enrollment. Responses to supplemental applications will be cross referenced utilizing tools available through the Workforce Center and eligibility for federally funded programs (TANF, Food Stamps, and Medicaid etc.)through Colorado Benefits Management System (CBMS). PM Statement:WCYCC will recruit and enroll 75% of members meeting the identified eligibility requirements and will complete their terms of service. Result: Intermediate Outcome Result. 75% of members enrolled will be unemployed and will meet the identified eligibility requirements. Members meeting the criteria will receive and participate in member development activities promoting employability skills. Indicator: O15: Members that secure employment. Target : 100%of enrolled members who are unemployed and meet the identified eligibility criteria will participate in and complete member development trainings promoting employability. Target Value: 100 Instruments: Training logs, time sheets, approved resumes, and acquired certifications will aid in the verification of acquired members development of employability. PM Statement:100% of enrolled members,who are unemployed and meet the identified eligibility requirements, will participate in a variety of member development workshops facilitated by WCYCC and partner agencies; selected workshops will provide members with certification. As a result, 75%of members will report increased employment skills. Focus Area: Environmental Stewardship Strategy to Achieve Results Briefly describe how you will achieve this result(Max 4,000 chars.) WCYCC local AmeriCorps members will be recruited to meet the community needs and those of project sponsors within Weld County as these projects pertain to public assess trail improvements and waterway restoration efforts. Full-time and seasonal staff has been and will continue to be trained in aligning practices with Outdoor Stewardship Institute (OSI)guidelines for trail construction and maintenance, erosion control, drainage structures and ecological restoration. Members will work on crews of approximately eight individuals, along with a Crew Leader, for an averaged minimum of 32 hours per week. Through corps member orientations, AmeriCorps members will also be trained in OSI techniques to complete projects to meet the standards of all sponsors as well as achieving the overall community needs. As it pertains to waterway restoration, AmeriCorps For Official Use Only Page 29 F T For Official Use Only National Performance Measures Briefly describe how you will achieve this result(Max 4,000 chars.) members will receive certified training in chainsaw operations. Waterway restoration will target invasive species removal along Poudre River and the Big Thompson River in Weld County. Water fowl habitat restoration will take place along the South Platte River. Irrigation canals serving communities of North Central Colorado will also receive seasonal spring improvements in effort to maximize conservation initiatives. Regional project sponsors include but are not limited: Ducks Unlimited, Natural Resource Conservation Service(NRCS), Central Colorado Water Conservancy District, Weld County Weed Division, Poudre River Trail Corridor Inc., Colorado Division of Wildlife, City of Greeley, Town of Windsor, West Greeley Conservation District, Greeley Trails and Open Space Foundation, Wildlands Restoration Volunteers etc. Result: Output Result. Members will be engaged in projects which focus on trail and waterway improvements. Indicator: (PRIORITY) EN5: Miles of trails or rivers improved and/or created. Target :A minimum of 20 miles of trail will be improved. A minimum of 15 miles of waterways will be improved. Target Value: 35 Instruments: Within Weld County and through project sponsors, access to Global Information Systems (GIS) data will provide accurate calculations of miles of trail and waterways improved. PM Statement:Members will be engaged in projects which focus on trail and waterway improvements. A minimum of 20 miles of trail will be improved and a minimum of 15 miles of waterways will be improved. Result: Intermediate Outcome Result. END OUTCOME: Members have completed projects focused on trails and waterway improvements. Target :A minimum of 20 miles of trail have been improved. A minimum of 15 miles of waterways have been improved. Target Value: 35 Instruments: Within Weld County and through project sponsors, access to Global Information Systems (GIS) data will provide accurate calculations of miles of trail and waterways improved. PM Statement:Members have completed projects focusing on trails and waterway improvements. A minimum of 20 miles of trails and a minimum of 15 miles of waterways have been improved. Result: Intermediate Outcome Result. 100%of AmeriCorps members serving on a trail and water related projects will receive training prior to projects beginning. Indicator: Trails and waterways are being improved by AmeriCorps members. Target : 100%of identified AmeriCorps members demonstrate the acquired skills necissary to For Official Use Only Page 30 a For Official Use Only National Performance Measures Result. successfully complete projects along trails and waterways. Target Value: 100 Instruments: Training log, time sheets, certficiations and on the job training will be utilized to verify members skills development regarding improvments along trails and waterways. PM Statement:Training log, time sheets, certficiations and on the job training will be utilized to verify members skills development regarding improvments along trails and waterways. As a result, 100% of identified AmeriCorps members will demonstrate the acquired skills necissary to successfully complete projects along trails and waterways. For Official Use Only Page 31 T For Official Use Only Required Documents Document Name Status Evaluation Sent Labor Union Concurrence Sent For Official Use Only Page 32 RPT_BGT_424 October 31,2011 4:13 PM Weld County Youth Conservation Corps (WCYCC) Board of Weld County Commissioners, Weld County Division of Human Application ID: 12AC133070 Services Budget Dates: Total Amt CNCS Share Grantee Share Section I.Program Operating Costs A.Personnel Expenses 72,097 44,831 27,266 B. Personnel Fringe Benefits 21,547 11,817 9,730 C.Travel Staff Travel Travel to CNCS-Sponsored Meetings 2,000 1,000 1,000 0 Member Travel 48,000 2,500 45,500 Total $50,00O $3,500 $46,500 D. Equipment 0 0 0 E.Supplies 20,000 2,000 18,000 F. Contractual and Consultant Services 0 0 0 G.Training Staff Training 1,500 0 1,500 Member Training 12,000 4,000 8,000 Total $13,500 $4,000 $9,500 H. Evaluation 800 0 800 I.Other Program Operating Costs 2,129 500 1,629 Section I.Subtotal $180,073 $66,648 $113,425 Section I Percentage 37% 63% Section II.Member Costs A.Living Allowance Full Time(1700 hrs) 0 0 0 1-Year Half Time(900 hours) 135,000 81,000 54,000 Reduced Half Time(675 hrs) 0 0 0 Quarter Time(450 hrs) 8,568 5,140 3,428 Minimum Time(300 hrs) 38,080 26,656 11,424 2-Year Half Time(2nd Year) 0 0 0 2-Year Half Time(1st Year) 0 0 0 Total $181,648 $112,796 _ - $68,852 - - B. Member Support Costs FICA for Members 13,392 8,035 5,357 Worker's Compensation 0 0 0 Health Care 15,300 4,590 10,710 Total $28,692 $12,625 $16,067 Section II.Subtotal $210,340 $125,421 $84,919 Section II.Percentages 60% 40% Section III.Administrative/Indirect Costs A. Corporation Fixed Percentage Corporation Fixed Amount 9,635 5,781 3,854 Commission Fixed Amount 1,889 1,889 0 Total $11,524 $7,670 $3,854 B.Federally Approved Indirect Cost Rate Section III.Subtotal $11,524 $7,670 $3,854 Section III Percentage 67% 33% Section I+Ill.Funding Percentages 39% 61% Budget Totals $401,937 $199,739 $202,198 Budget Total Percentage 50% 50% Required Match 50% #of years Receiving CNCS Funds 10 Total MSYs 15.03 Form 424A Modified SF-424A(4/88 and 12/97) Page 1 RPT_BGT_424 October 31,2011 4:13 PM Weld County Youth Conservation Corps (WCYCC) Board of Weld County Commissioners, Weld County Division of Human Services CosVMSY $13,289 Form 424A Modified SF-424A(4/88 and 12/97) Page 2 ASSURANCES Vitatz- iG53 4,tthlnzl aA ///7120 "":;./(0 ,� Page 1 of 4 ASSURANCES As the duly authorized representative of the applicant,I certify,to the best of my knowledge and belief,that the applicant: • Has the legal authority to apply for federal assistance,and the institutional,managerial,and financial capability(including funds sufficient to pay the non-federal share of project costs)to ensure proper planning,management,and completion of the project described in this application. • Will give the awarding agency,the Comptroller General of the United States,and if appropriate,the state,through any authorized representative,access to and the right to examine all records,books,papers,or documents related to the award;and will establish a proper accounting system in accordance with generally accepted accounting standards or agency directives. • Will establish safeguards to prohibit employees from using their position for a purpose that constitutes or presents the appearance of personal or organizational conflict of interest,or personal gain. • Will initiate and complete the work within the applicable time frame after receipt of approval of the awarding agency. • Will comply with the Intergovernmental Personnel Act of 1970(42 U.S.C.4728-4763)relating to prescribed standards for merit systems for programs funded under one of the nineteen statutes or regulations specified in Appendix A of OPM's Standards for a Merit System of Personnel Administration(5 CFR 900,Subpart F). • Will comply with all federal statutes relating to nondiscrimination.These include but are not limited to:Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964(P.L.88-352)which prohibits discrimination on the basis of race,color,or national origin;(b)Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972,as amended(20 U.S.C. 1681-1683,and 1685-1686).which prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex;(c)Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973,as amended(29 U.S.C.794),which prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability(d)The Age Discrimination Act of 1975,as amended(42 U.S.C.6101-6107),which prohibits discrimination on the basis of age;(e)The Drug Abuse Office and Treatment Act of 1972(P.L.92-255),as amended,relating to nondiscrimination on the basis of drug abuse;(f)The Comprehensive Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism Prevention,Treatment and Rehabilitation Act of 1970(P.L.91-616),as amended,relating to nondiscrimination on the basis of alcohol abuse or alcoholism; (g)sections 523 and 527 of the Public Health Service Act of 1912(42 U.S.C.290dd-3 and 290ee-3),as amended,relating to confidentiality of alcohol and drug abuse patient records;(h)Title VIII of the Civil Rights Act of 1968(42 U.S.C.3601 et seq.), as amended,relating to nondiscrimination in the sale,rental or financing of housing;(i)any other nondiscrimination provisions in the National and Community Service Act of 1990,as amended;and(j)the requirements of any other nondiscrimination statute(s) which may apply to the application. • Will comply,or has already complied,with the requirements of Titles II and III of the Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act of 1970(P.L.91-646)which provide for fair and equitable treatment of persons displaced or whose property is acquired as a result of federal or federally assisted programs.These requirements apply to all interests in real property acquired for project purposes regardless of federal participation in purchases. • Will comply with the provisions of the Hatch Act(5 U.S.C. 1501-1508 and 7324-7328)which limit the political activities of employees whose principal employment activities are funded in whole or in part with Federal funds. • Will comply,as applicable,with the provisions of the Davis-Bacon Act(40 U.S.C 276a and 276a-77),the Copeland Act(40 U.S.C 276c and 18 U.S.C.874),and the Contract Work Hours and Safety Standards Act(40 U.S.C.327-333),regarding labor standards for Federally assisted construction sub-agreements. • Will comply,if applicable,with flood insurance purchase requirements of Section 102(a)of the Flood Disaster Protection Act of 1973(P.L.93-234)which requires the recipients in a special flood hazard area to participate in the program and to purchase flood insurance if the total cost of insurable construction and acquisition is$10,000 or more. • Will comply with environmental standards which may be prescribed pursuant to the following:(a)institution of environmental quality control measures under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969(P.L.91-190)and Executive Order(EO) 11514; (b)notification of violating facilities pursuant to EO 11738;(c)protection of wetlands pursuant to EO 11990;(d)evaluation of flood hazards in floodplains in accordance with EO 11988;(e)assurance of project consistency with the approved state management program developed under the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972(16 U.S.C 1451 et seq.);(f)conformity of federal actions to State(Clean Air)Implementation Plans under Section 176(c)of the Clean Air Act of 1955,as amended(42 U.S.C.7401 et seq.);(g)protection of underground sources of drinking water under the Safe Drinking Water Act of 1974,as amended(P.L.93-523);and(h)protection of endangered species under the Endangered Species Act of 1973,as amended(P.L. 93-205). • Will comply with the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act of 1968(16 U.S.C 1271 et seq.)related to protecting components or potential components of the national wild and scenic rivers system. • Will assist the awarding agency in assuring compliance with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966,as amended(16 U.S.C.470),EO 11593(identification and protection of historic properties),and the Archaeological and Historic Preservation Act of 1974(16U.S.C.469a-I et seq.). • Will comply with P.L.93-348 regarding the protection of human subjects involved in research,development,and related activities supported by this award of assistance. https://egrants.cns.gov/cnsmisc/eAssur.htm 11/1/2011 ASSURANCES Page 2 of 4 • Will comply with the Laboratory Animal Welfare Act of 1966(P.L.89-544,as amended,7 U.S.C.2131 et seq.)pertaining to the care,handling,and treatment of warm blooded animals held for research,teaching,or other activities supported by this award of assistance. • Will comply with the Lead-Based Paint Poisoning Prevention Act(42 U.S.C.§§4801 et seq.)which prohibits the use of lead based paint in construction or rehabilitation of residence structures. • Will cause to be performed the required financial and compliance audits in accordance with the Single Audit Act of 1984,as amended,and OMB Circular A-133,Audits of States,Local Governments,and Non-Profit Organizations. • Will comply with all applicable requirements of all other Federal laws,executive orders,regulations,application guidelines,and policies governing this program. For AmeriCorps State and National Applicants ONLY If you are not applying for a grant through AmeriCorps*State and National,you may ignore this section. • Will comply with all rules regarding prohibited activities,including those stated in applicable Notice,grant provisions,and program regulations,and will ensure that no assistance made available by the Corporation will be used to support any such prohibited activities. • Will comply with the nondiscrimination provisions in the national service laws,which provide that an individual with responsibility for the operation of a projector program that receives assistance under the national service laws shall not discriminate against a participant in,or member of the staff of,such project or program on the basis of race,color,national origin,sex,age,political affiliation,disability,or on the basis of religion. (NOTE:the prohibition on religious discrimination does not apply to the employment of any staff member paid with non-Corporation funds or paid with Corporation funds but employed with the organization operating the project prior to or on the date the grant was awarded. If your organization is a faith-based organization that makes hiring decisions on the basis of religious belief,your organization may be entitled,under the Religious Freedom Restoration Act,42 U.S.C. §2000bb,to receive federal funds and yet maintain that hiring practice,even though the national service legislation includes a restriction on religious discrimination in employment of staff hired to work on a Corporation-funded project and paid with Corporation grant funds. (42 U.S.C. §§5057(c)and 12635(c)). For the circumstances under which this may occur,please see the document"Effect of the Religious Freedom Restoration Act on Faith-Based Applicants for Grants"on the Corporation's website at:httm://www.usdoj.gov/archive/fbci/effect-rfra.pdf. • Will comply with all other federal statutes relating to nondiscrimination, including any self-evaluation requirements. These include but arc not limited to:(a)Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964(P.L.88-352)which prohibits discrimination on the basis of race,color,or national origin;(b)Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972,as amended(20 U.S.C. 1681-1683, and 1685-1686).which prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex;(c)Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973,as amended(29 U.S.C.794),which prohibits discrimination on the basis of handicaps(d)The Age Discrimination Act of 1975,as amended(42 U.S.C.6101-6107),which prohibits discrimination on the basis of age;(e)The Drug Abuse Office and Treatment Act of 1972(P.L.92-255),as amended,relating to nondiscrimination on the basis of drug abuse;(f)The Comprehensive Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism Prevention,Treatment and Rehabilitation Act of 1970(P.L.91-616),as amended,relating to nondiscrimination on the basis of alcohol abuse or alcoholism;(g)sections 523 and 527 of the Public Health Service Act of 1912 (42 U.S.C.290 dd-3 and 290 ee-3),as amended,relating to confidentiality of alcohol and drug abuse patient records;(h)Title VIII of the Civil Rights Act of 1968(42 U.S.C.3601 et seq.),as amended,relating to nondiscrimination in the sale,rental or financing of housing;and(i)the requirements of any other nondiscrimination statute(s)which may apply to the application. • Will provide,in the design,recruitment,and operation of any AmeriCorps program,for broad-based input from—(I)the community served, the municipality and government of the county(if appropriate)in which the community is located,and potential participants in the program;and(2)community-based agencies with a demonstrated record of experience in providing services and local labor organizations representing employees of service sponsors,if these entities exist in the area to be served by the program; • Will,prior to the placement of participants,consult with the appropriate local labor organization,if any,representing employees in the area who are engaged in the same or similar work as that proposed to be carried out by an AmeriCorps program,to ensure compliance with the nondisplacement requirements specified in section 177 of the NCSA; • Will,in the case of an AmeriCorps program that is not funded through a State,consult with and coordinate activities with the State Commission for the state in which the program operates. • Will ensure that any national service program carried out by the applicant using assistance provided under section 121 of the National and Community Service Act of 1990 and any national service program supported by a grant made by the applicant using such assistance will address unmet human,educational,environmental,or public safety needs through services that provide a direct benefit to the community in which the service is performed; • Will comply with the nonduplication and nondisplacement requirements set out in section 177 of the National and Community https://egrants.cns.gov/cnsmisc/eAssur.htm 11/1/2011 ASSURANCES Page 3 of 4 Service Act of 1990,and in the Corporation's regulations at§2540.100; • Will comply with the grievance procedure requirements as set out in section 1760)of the National and Community Service Act of 1990 and in the Corporation's regulations at 45 CFR§2540.230; • Will provide participants in the national service program with the training,skills,and knowledge necessary for the projects that participants are called upon to perform; • Will provide support services to participants,such as information regarding G.E.D.attainment and post-service employment, and,if appropriate,opportunities for participants to reflect on their service experiences; • Will arrange for an independent evaluation of any national service program carried out using assistance provided to the applicant under section 121 of the National and Community Service Act of 1990 or,with the approval of the Corporation,conduct an internal evaluation of the program; • Will apply measurable performance goals and evaluation methods,which are to be used as part of such evaluation to determine the program's impact on communities and persons served by the program,on participants who take part in the projects,and in other such areas as required by the Corporation; • Will ensure the provision of a living allowance and other benefits to participants as required by the Corporation; • Has not violated a Federal criminal statute; • If a state applicant,will ensure that the State subgrants will be used to support national service programs selected by the State on a competitive basis; • If a state applicant,will seek to ensure an equitable allocation within the State of assistance and approved national service positions,taking into consideration such factors as the locations of the programs,population density,and economic distress; • If a state applicant,will ensure that not less than 60%of the assistance will be used to make grants to support national service programs other than those carried out by a State agency,unless the Corporation approves otherwise. For Learn and Serve America Applicants ONLY If you are not applying for a grant through Learn and Serve America,you may disregard this section. • Will keep such records and provide such information to the Corporation with respect to the programs as may be required for fiscal audits and program evaluation. • Will comply with the nonduplication,nondisplacement,and grievance procedure requirements of 45 CFR Part 2540. • Will,prior to the placement of a participant,consult with the appropriate local labor organization,if any,representing employees in the area who are engaged in the same or similar work as that proposed to be carried out by the program,to prevent the displacement and protect the rights of those employees. • Will comply with the 45 CFR 2540.200-207 criminal history check requirements for all individuals receiving a living allowance, stipend,national service educational award,or salary through a program receiving assistance under the national service laws— regardless of the type of service the individual is performing or the individual's access to vulnerable populations. • Will comply with the parental involvement requirements 45 CFR 2540.330. • Will,for school-based grants,make efforts to: 1. ensure that students of different ages,races,sexes,ethnic groups,disabilities,and economic backgrounds have opportunities to serve together; 2. include any opportunities for students,enrolled in schools or programs of education providing elementary or secondary education,to participate in service-learning programs and ensure that such service-learning programs include opportunities for such students to serve together; 3. involve participants in the design and operation of the programs; 4. promote service-learning in areas of greatest need,including low-income or rural areas;and 5. otherwise integrate service opportunities into the academic program of the participants. For Social Innovation Fund Applicants ONLY https://egrants.cns.gov/cnsmisc/eAssur.htm 11/1/2011 ASSURANCES Page 4 of 4 If you are not applying for a Social Innovation Fund grant,you may disregard this section. • Will use the funds received through the award in order to make subgrants to community organizations that will use the funds to replicate or expand proven initiatives,or support new initiatives,in low-income communities. • Will consult with a diverse cross section of community representatives in making decisions about subgrants for communities (including individuals from the public,nonprofit private,and for-profit private sectors). • Will make subgrants of a sufficient size and scope to enable the community organizations to build their capacity to manage initiatives,and sustain replication or expansion of the initiatives; • Will not make any subgrants to-- • the parent organizations of the applicant, • a subsidiary organization of the parent organization of the applicant,or, • if the applicant applied for a SIF award as a partnership,any member of the partnership. • Commits to meeting the matching fund requirements of section 198k(i)of the National and Community Service Act of 1990(42 U.S.C. §12653k(i)). • Commits to use data and evaluations to improve the applicant's own model and to improve the initiatives funded by the applicant. • Commits cooperate with any evaluation activities undertaken by the Corporation. https://egrants.cns.gov/cnsmisc/eAssur.htm 11/1/2011 CERTIFICATIONS Page 1 of 2 CERTIFICATIONS Certification—Debarment,Suspension,and Other Responsibility Matters This certification is required by the government-wide regulations implementing Executive Order 12549,Debarment and Suspension,2 CFR Part 180, Section 180.335, What information must!provide before entering into a covered transaction with a Federal agency? As the duly authorized representative of the applicant,I certify,to the best of my knowledge and belief,that neither the applicant nor its principals: • Is presently excluded or disqualified; • Has been convicted within the preceding three years of any of the offenses listed in § 180.800(a)or had a civil judgment rendered against it for one of those offenses within that time period; • Is presently indicted for or otherwise criminally or civilly charged by a governmental entity(Federal,State,or local)with commission or any of the offenses listed in § I80.800(a);or • Has had one or more public transactions(Federal, State,or local)terminated within the preceding three years for cause or default. Certification—Drug Free Workplace This certification is required by the Corporation's regulations implementing sections 5150-5160 of the Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988(P.L. 100-690),45 CFR Part 2545,Subpart B. The regulations require certification by grantees,prior to award,that they will make a good faith effort,on a continuing basis,to maintain a drug-free workplace. The certification set out below is a material representation of fact upon which reliance will be placed when the agency determines to award the grant. False certification or violation of the certification may be grounds for suspension of payments,suspension or termination of grants,or government-wide suspension or debarment(sec 2 CFR Part 180,Subparts G and H). As the duly authorized representative of the grantee,I certify,to the best of my knowledge and belief,that the grantee will provide a drug-free workplace by: A. Publishing a drug-free workplace statement that: a. Notifies employees that the unlawful manufacture,distribution,dispensing,possession,or use of a controlled substance is prohibited in the grantee's workplace; b. Specifies the actions that the grantee will take against employees for violating that prohibition;and c. Informs employees that,as a condition of employment under any award,each employee will abide by the terms of the statement and notify the grantee in writing if the employee is convicted for a violation of a criminal drug statute occurring in the workplace within five days of the conviction; 13. Requiring that a copy of the statement described in paragraph(A)be given to each employee who will be engaged in the performance of any Federal award; C. Establishing a drug-free awareness program to inform employees about: a. The dangers of drug abuse in the workplace; b. The grantee's policy of maintaining a drug-free workplace; c. Any available drug counseling,rehabilitation,and employee assistance programs;and d. The penalties that the grantee may impose upon them for drug abuse violations occurring in the workplace; D. Providing us,as well as any other Federal agency on whose award the convicted employee was working,with written notification within 10 calendar days of learning that an employee has been convicted of a drug violation in the workplace; E. Taking one of the following actions within 30 calendar days of learning that an employee has been convicted of a drug violation in the workplace: a. Taking appropriate personnel action against the employee,up to and including termination;or b. Requiring that the employee participate satisfactorily in a drug abuse assistance or rehabilitation program approved for these purposes by a Federal,State,or local health,law enforcement,or other appropriate agency; F. Making a good faith effort to continue to maintain a drug-free workplace through implementation of paragraphs(A)through(E). Certification-Lobbying Activities As required by Section 1352,Title 31 of the U.S.Code,as the duly authorized representative of the applicant,I certify,to the best of my knowledge and belief,that: https://egrants.cns.gov/cnsmisc/eCerts.htm 11/1/2011 CERTIFICATIONS Page 2 of 2 • No federal appropriated funds have been paid or will be paid,by or on behalf of the applicant,to any person for influencing or attempting to influence an officer or employee of any agency,a member of Congress,an officer of Congress in connection with the awarding of any federal contract,the making of any federal loan,the entering into of any cooperative agreement,or modification of any federal contract,grant,loan,or cooperative agreement; • If any funds other than federal appropriated funds have been paid or will be paid to any person for influencing or attempting to influence an officer or employee of any agency,a member of Congress,an officer or employee of Congress,or an employee of a member of Congress in connection with this federal contract,grant,loan,or cooperative agreement,the applicant will submit Standard Form-LLL,"Disclosure Form to Report Lobbying,"in accordance with its instructions; • The applicant will require that the language of this certification be included in the award documents for all subcontracts at all tiers(including subcontracts,subgrants,and contracts under grants,loans and cooperative agreements)and that all subrecipients will certify and disclose accordingly. Certification-Grant Review Process(State Commissions Only) I certify that in conducting our review process,we have ensured compliance with the National and Community Service Act of 1990,the Corporation's peer review requirements,and all state laws and conflict of interest rules. For AmeriCorps State and National Applicants ONLY If you are not applying for a grant through AmeriCorps*State and National,you may ignore this section. Erroneous certification or assurance The assurances and certifications are material representations of fact upon which we rely in determining whether to enter into this transaction. If we later determine that you knowingly submitted an erroneous certification or assurance,in addition to other remedies available to the federal government,we may terminate this transaction for cause or default. Notice of error in certification or assurance You must provide immediate written notice to us if at any time you learn that a certification or assurance was erroneous when submitted or has become erroneous because of changed circumstances. Definitions The terms"debarment","suspension","excluded","disqualified","ineligible","participant","person","principal","proposal",and "voluntarily excluded"as used in this document have the meanings set out in 2 CFR Part 180,subpart I,"Definitions." A transaction shall be considered a"covered transaction"if it meets the definition in 2 CFR part 180 subpart B,"Covered Transactions." Assurance requirement for subgrant agreements You agree by submitting this proposal that if we approve your application you shall not knowingly enter into any lower tier covered transaction with a person who is debarred,suspended,declared ineligible,or voluntarily excluded from participation in this covered transaction,unless authorized by us. Assurance inclusion in subgrant agreements You agree by submitting this proposal that you will obtain an assurance from prospective participants in all lower tier covered transactions and in all solicitations for lower tier covered transactions that the participants are not debarred,suspended,ineligible,or voluntarily excluded from the covered transaction. Assurance of subgrant principals You may rely upon an assurance of a prospective participant in a lower-tier covered transaction that is not debarred,suspended,ineligible, or voluntarily excluded from the covered transaction,unless you know that the assurance is erroneous. You may decide the method and frequency by which you determine the eligibility of your principals. You may,but are not required to,check the List of Parties Excluded from Federal Procurement and Nonprocurement Programs. Non-assurance in subgrant agreements If you knowingly enter into a lower tier covered transaction with a person who is suspended,debarred,ineligible,or voluntarily excluded from participation in this transaction,in addition to other remedies available to the federal government,we may terminate this transaction for cause or default. Prudent person standard Nothing contained in the aforementioned may be construed to require establishment of a system of records in order to render in good faith the assurances and certifications required. Your knowledge and information is not required to exceed that which is normally possessed by a prudent person in the ordinary course of business dealings. https://egrants.cns.gov/cnsmisc/eCerts.htm 11/1/2011 Page 1 of 1 11/1/2011, 2:26 PM, EDT home my account help logout I NATIdVALST COMMUNITY SERVICED • i Thank you You have successfully completed the action to Submit 424 to prime applicant on 11/1/2011 at 2:26 PM, EDT.The status of your application is now Submitted to Prime. Go to your eGrants home 508 Approved I Contact Help Desk I disable the pictures https://egrants.cns.gov/espan/gr_app/thanks.j sp?sid=688bdafbb5262bc 166c6e0cafa439a77... 11/1/2011 Hello