HomeMy WebLinkAbout20141079.tiff RESOLUTION
RE: APPROVE RESUBMITTAL OF CONTINUATION GRANT 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 a Continuation Grant 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 Corporation for National and Community Service,
commencing October 1, 2014, and ending September 30, 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 for
resubmittal, 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 Continuation Grant 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 Corporation for National and Community Service, be, and hereby is,
approved for resubmittal.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED by the Board that the Deputy Clerk to the Board be, and
hereby is, authorized to electronically resubmit said grant.
The above and foregoing Resolution was, on motion duly made and seconded, adopted by
the following vote on the 7th day of April, A.D., 2014.
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
Las
COUNTY, COLORADO
J
ATTEST: ; &ach: �C( �
Chair
Weld County Clerk to the Bo. ;.►� Z LA
`UJ���r (k OIL e ms
arbara Kirkmey= , Pro-Tem
BY: X4. 1 �r ' 1�� -. _861
Dep y Clerk to the Boa
f can P. Conway
APP ED AS M: : -
Mike Fr an
ttorney
William F. Garcia
/Date of signature: ` 11.olli
ee : 1456 (O-n
2014-1079
HR0085
1861 MEMORANDUM
AIT
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V0(/ DATE: April 2, 2014
`_- -O—UN "
TO: Douglas Rademacher, Chair, Board f County om issioners
40
FROM: Judy A. Griego, Director, Human y es" ` " �t I
YV
RE: AmeriCorps Continuation Grant or Year Three of hree
between the Weld County Board of Commissions on behalf of
the Weld County Department of Human Services' Youth
Conservation Corps (WCYCC) and Serve Colorado
Enclosed for Board approval is the AmeriCorps Continuation Grant for Year Three of Three
between the Weld County Board of Commissioners on behalf of the Weld County Department of
Human Services' Youth Conservation Corps (WCYCC) and Serve Colorado (formerly known as
the Governor's Commission of Community Service). This Continuation Grant was reviewed
under the Board's Pass-Around Memorandum dated April 2, 2014, and was approved for
placement on the Board's Agenda.
The 2014 Colorado AmeriCorps State Formula Continuation Grants are due by 5:00 p.m. April 7,
2014. The continuation grant application will remain consistent with the original three (3) year
grant proposal submitted. The anticipated modifications include minor adjustments to performance
measures and budget as requested by Serve Colorado.
WCYCC's plan includes providing invaluable employment and educational opportunities to 35
participants between the ages of 17 and 24 (total number of participants is contingent upon total
hours of individual service commitment). WCYCC AmeriCorps members will complete a vast
variety of projects throughout Weld County. WCYCC will complete projects within Weld County
and, with Board approval, outside of Weld County that have direct benefit to Weld County in an
effort to generate matching funds for the grant.
The estimated total budget will include the Corporation of National and Community Service
funding estimated at $131,807.
If you have any questions, please contact me at extension 6510.
PART I - FACE SHEET
APPLICATION FOR FEDERAL ASSISTANCE 1.TYPE OF SUBMISSION:
Modified Standard Form 424(Rev.02107 to confirm to the Corporation's eGrants System) Application X❑ Non-Construction
2a.DATE SUBMIT I t1)TO CORPORATION 3.DATE RECEIVED BY STATE: STATE APPLICATION IDENTFER:
FOR NATIONAL AND COMMUNITY
SERVICE(CNCS):
2b.APPLICATION ID: 4.DATE RECEIVED BY FEDERAL AGENCY: FEDERAL IDENTIFIER
14AC159511 12AFHCO0010002
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 Tani Grant
ADDRESS(give street address,city,state,zip code and county): TELEPHONE NUMBER: (970)353-3800 6754
PO Box 1805
315 N.11th Ave FAX NUMBER: (970)346-7981
Greeley CO 80632 INTERNET E-MAIL ADDRESS: tgrant@co.weld.co.us
County:
6.EMPLOYER IDENTIFICATION NUMBER(EN): 7.TYPE OF APPLICANT:
7a. Local Government-County
846000813
7b. Community Action Agency/Community Action Program
8.TYPE OF APPLICATION(Check appropriate box).
NEW NEW/PREVIOUS GRANTEE
X CONTINUATION I AMENDMENT
I 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 APPLICANTS 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 NITIATIVE(IF ANY):
The Weld County Youth Conservation Corps(WCYCC)is located in Greeley
Colorado.Weld County CO is the third most extensive and the ninth most populou
13.PROPOSED PROJECT: START DATE 10/01/14 END DATE 09/30/15 14.CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT OF: a.Appficant b.Program CO 04
15.ESTIMATED FUNDING: Year#: 3 16.IS APPLICATION SUBJECT TO REVIEW BY STATE EXECUTIVE
ORDER 12372 PROCESS?
a.FEDERAL $ 131,794.00
Q YES.THIS PREAPPLICATION/APPLICATION WAS MADEAVALABLE
b.APPLICANT $ 170,020.00 TO THE STATE EXECUTIVE ORDER 12372 PROCESS FOR
REVIEW ON:
c.STATE 5 0.00 DATE
d.LOCAL $ 0.00 ❑X NO.PROGRAM IS NOT COVERED BY EO.12372
e.OTHER 5 0.00
f.PROGRAM INCOME $ 0.00 17.IS THE APPLICANT DELINQUENT ON ANY FEDERAL DEBT?
0 YES if"Yes,"attach an explanation. ® NO
g.TOTAL $ 301,814.00
18.TO THE BEST OF MY KNOWLEDGE AND BELIEF,ALL DATA IN THIS APPLICATION/PREAPPLICATION ARE TRUE AND CORRECT,THE DOCUMENT HAS BEEN
DULY AUTHORIZED BY THE GOVERNING BODY OF THE APPLICANT AND THE APPLICANT WILL COMPLY WITH THE ATTACHED ASSURANCES IF THE ASSISTANCE
IS AWARDED.
a.TYPED NAME OF AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVE b.TITLE c.TELEPHONE NUMBER:
Esther Gesick OfficeManager/Coord (970)356-4000 4226
d.SIG TURE OF AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVE e.DATE SIGNED:
2014-1079
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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 primarily 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 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,
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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 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
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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 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
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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 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 (goo 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
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and visible benefit to their communities. 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 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
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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 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
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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 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
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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 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 (t00% 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 (t00%
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
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Judicial Court District,Youth In Conflict Division of 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 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,
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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 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
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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 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, 30 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
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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 nth 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. 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 3o 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 3o 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
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corps model programs for 16. The AmeriCorps program and its 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 i00% 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 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
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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 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
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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 10 years of additional experience working with youth in federally funded
programs, including WIA Youth and the TANF Programs.Approximately 20% 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 t00% 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 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
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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
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.
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The CBO/FBOs and other agencies identify needs and service targets that will meet 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 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 30 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
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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 I
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 100% 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. WCY CC'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 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
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,
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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 opportunities.This has been shown through the history of the
Corps, in this grant proposal we have a 50% match as required for ten year grantees.A total of
$193,500 will be contributed from non-CNCS resources of which $112,897 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 $80,603. 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
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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, 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: 1) 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
YEAR TWO CONTINUATION CHANGES:
In the applicant information section, WCYCC is proposing to begin the grant cycle on October 1, 2013
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and to end on September 30, 2014. The slight adjustment in dates was discussed during an onsite
review with Serve Colorado and Fiscal Staff with Employment Services of Weld County and direct
fiscal agents for the AmeriCorps grant. Ending the program year at the end of a month will allow for
accurate and detailed fiscal reporting.
WCYCC has one staff change to report, originally submitted within the Organizational Capability
Narrative section. Erik Warrington left his position as the Team Leader of WCYCC in May of 2012.
Holly Nelson has replaced Erik Warrington in this position. Holly was an AmeriCorps Crew Leader
for over four years before accepting the position and increased responsibilities of the Team Leader.
Performance Measures have been modified to mirror the updated Performance Measures in OnCorps.
The two Performance Measures continue to be aligned with National Performance measures. Serve
Colorado provided technical guidance and approval of the modifications within OnCorps. The
modifications will enhance the measurement of each Performance Measure. In addition, end
outcomes were removed as requested.
The proposed budget has been adjusted. The adjustments to the proposed budget support the recent
guidance of current Serve Colorado administrators through the reporting of monthly expense reports
as well as recent onsite reviews of WCYCC and fiscal procedures. The major modifications include
increased personnel fringe benefits, increased staff salaries to adjust with cost of living increases and
Administrative /Indirect Costs within section III of the budget. Other minor modifications were
made in effort to align the proposed budget as closely as possible with actual expenditures as well as to
meet the demands of the increases in other areas. Overall, the grantee match has increased to 51%
and the overall requested funds from CNCS have fluctuated minimally. The cost per MSY has also
realized an increase due to the changes however it is under the $13,300 maximum amount.
W CYCC has historically met t00% of enrollment each program year. Retention of WCYCC members
P g
has been a challenge at times. WCYCC specifically targets and enrolls members who are considered
to be at-risk youth. Many youth have juvenile delinquent backgrounds,have not obtained a high
school diploma or GED and have many individual barriers to employment and education. The
majority of WCYCC members have not realized success in previous areas of their life, WCYCC
affords youth the opportunity to serve their community while gaining invaluable employment and
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educational skills enhancing their ability to obtain unsubsidized employment and or attend post
secondary education following their term of service. Serving this population of young adults is both
challenging and rewarding. WCYCC strives to have the highest retention rates as possible. During
the last full program year, the average retention rate was 64.2% enrolling a total of 53 members, 19 of
whom unsuccessfully completed i00% of their AmeriCorps agreement. WCYCC experienced a
sudden void in a critical staff position in May of 2012,just before summer programs were launching.
The staff person who moved out of state and vacated their position with WCYCC was the "Team
Leader". This position is the primary person charged with the task of recruiting and filling member
positions as well as scheduling projects for all crews and generating funds to meet the grantee cash
match. The sudden change affected the program in many ways. Although all member positions were
filled, the situation forced a minor change in member slots and how members would serve. While the
general idea was effective and 10 youth thrived and completed their term of service, 10 members were
unsuccessful. Additionally, the previous Team Leader had recruited members for the Chainsaw Crew
from out-of-state. Unfortunately,the majority of members from out-of-state were unsuccessful for a
variety of reasons moving out of Colorado. WCYCC has intentionally increased the selection process
for those from out of state to ensure potential members are aware of Weld County's general location
(not the mountains) and demographics. WCYCC has also modified the seasonal crews to include less
quarter time members which was the lowest retention for last program year. It should be noted that
the previous program year(2010-2011) had an average retention rate of 85.1%. -
YEAR THREE CONTINUATION CHANGES
APPLICANT INFORMATION AND APPLICATION INFORMATION:
No Changes
RATIONAL AND APPROACH:
It should be noted that WCYCC does not have a VISTA placed with WCYCC as was in the initial year
of the grant. Additionally, to assist the overall needs of Serve Colorado to reduce total MSY allocations
across the State, WCYCC elected to reduce the total number of MSY's from 15.03 to 9.99. The
reduction also aids WCYCC to continue to meet the minimum of 50% grantee match more effectively.
WCYCC would also request the ability to provide members with the ability to perform approved
service up to 20% of their total term of service outside of WCYCC when members obtain approval
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Page 23
Narratives
from WCYCC. This would not be provided to each member,however, if members miss service hours
outside of their control and have demonstrated their desire to complete successfully, they would be
able to meet their overall service hour requirements, up to 20%, outside of WCYCC normal operating
days/hours.
MEMBER/ COMMUNITY OUTPUTS AND OUTCOMES:
No Changes
ORGANIZATIONAL CAPABILITY:
As increased capability,WCYCC responded to the September 2013 Flood immediately and has projects
in Weld County aligned to continue Flood recovery efforts; to include mitigation efforts addressing
spring run offs, this spring. WCYCC will continue to support Flood recovery to meet overall
community needs in the years to come.
COST EFFECTIVENESS AND BUDGET ADEQUACY:
The overall budget includes minor modifications this program year. Modifications include increased
grantee share for the Crew Leader in Personnel Expenses, allocation adjustments to CNCS sponsored
meetings, member travel adjustment, member uniforms and equipment modification, and slight
adjustments to member costs. The overall cost per MSY was reduced by one dollar. WCYCC's
expected fee for service (cash match) generation is increased from the prior year. WCYCC has
commitment of at least an additional $50,000 above last program year for the current program year
and is expected to carry into PY14. Diversifying funds and increasing cash match is one focus area of
WCYCC. Additionally, the Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) for Weld County is in the final
stages of approval. If fully funded and upon approval, CSBG will provide funding to assist with staff
costs for WCYCC's AmeriCorps program.
ENROLLMENT:
WCYCC had a t00% enrollment during the 2012-2013 program year.
RETENTION:
WCYCC has historically met t00% of enrollment each program year. Retention of WCYCC members
has been a challenge at times. WCYCC specifically targets and enrolls members who are considered
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Page 24
RAFT
Narratives
to be opportunity/at-risk youth. Many youth have juvenile delinquent backgrounds,have not
obtained a high school diploma or GED and have many individual barriers to employment and
education. The majority of WCYCC members have not realized success in previous areas of their life,
WCYCC affords youth the opportunity to serve their community while gaining invaluable
employment and educational skills enhancing their ability to obtain unsubsidized employment and or
attend post secondary education following their term of service. Serving this population of young
adults is both challenging and rewarding. WCYCC strives to have the highest retention rates as
possible. During the last full program year,the average retention rate was 74.3% which is nearly an
r1%increase. The 74.3% includes a total of 35 members; 9 exited without an award. WCYCC
continues to review and modify recruitment efforts, selection process as well as strategies to achieve
high retention rates while continuing to meet community needs and providing invaluable service
opportunities for opportunity youth.
3o DAY COMPLIANCE:
During the 2012-2013 program year, WCYCC had 10 late enrollments and 5 late exits. The errors
were identified and solutions to correct the issue have been identified. The exits were a result of
members not returning to WCYCC however, were given an opportunity to complete their term of
service due to circumstances. When the members were unable to complete terms successfully,
members were exited on the last date of service which in this case was more than 3o days. It's not the
intention of WCYCC to be outside of this compliance area in the future as processes of both
enrollments and exits have been streamlined. Additionally, a system to double check each process is in
place to ensure data entry is done with accuracy.
PERFORMANCE MEASURES:
PM modifications are limited. The Environmental Stewardship National Performance Measure will
have increased outcomes. The new outcomes will be measured in acres as opposed to miles as acres
are measured more effectively. Historically, WCYCC has exceeded the former outcome of 35 miles of
trails and waterways to be improved. The third year of this continuation grant will include an
outcome of 75 acres of trails and waterways to be improved. For the second Nationally aligned PM,
it's WCYCC's intent to enroll 75% of the total members who meet the economically disadvantaged
criteria. In effort to continue to meet the community needs while simultaneously meeting the needs
of AmeriCorps members, WCYCC modifies term of service slots which results with a varied number of
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Page 25
Narratives
total participants. For this reason, the overall goal of 75% of members will meet the established
criteria will be used and modified into projected total members enrolled.
For Official Use Only
Page 26
Grant Characteristics
AmeriCorps Member Population- Communities of Color
x AmeriCorps Member Population- Low-income Individuals
AmeriCorps Member Population- Native Americans
AmeriCorps Member Population- New Americans
AmeriCorps Member Population- Older Americans
AmeriCorps Member Population- People w ith Disabilities
AmeriCorps Member Population- Rural Residents
AmeriCorps Member Population- Veterans,Active Military, or their Families
X AmeriCorps Member Population- economically disadvantaged young adults/opportunity youth
AmeriCorps Member Population- None of the above
Geographic Focus - Rural
Geographic Focus - Urban
Encore Program
Community Based Organizations
Geographic Focus - Rural and Urban
Faith Based Organizations
21st CSC
Professional Corps
Governor/Mayor Initiative
SIG/Priority School
Other Initiative
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Page 27
rj
r
Performance Measures
Table1: MSYs by Focus Areas
Environmental 100%
Stewardship
Tablet: MSYs by Objective:
46,27;:171:',,17.3,19141
At—Risk Ecosystems 100%
Table3: %MSYs by NPM vs.Applicant vs. Not in ANY
t N Applicant Not in ANY
+°. 0% 0% 100%
Table4: No of MSY and Slots by Objective
ribra it4al8, T.1,7:72.00:11:',791110.**; 4j,d Yq ii4'l�,"Ab m
s.At—Risk Ecosystems 9 22
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Page 28
DAcralr
For Official Use Only
Page 29
3
A
Required Documents
Document Name Status
Evaluation Not Sent
Labor Union Concurrence Not Sent
For Official Use Only
Page 30
PM Summary Report for Application ID: 14AC159511 Page '
Grant application ID: 14AC 159511
NOFA: Commission AmeriCorps State FY 2014(New and Continuation)
Type: Continuation Status: Submitted to Prime
Submitted:
Legal Applicant Name: Board of Weld County Commissioners,Weld County Division of Human Services
EN5 - Improvement of Trails and/or Waterways
Focus Area Environmental Stewardship
Objective At-Risk Ecosystems
Title ENS-Improvement of Trails and/or Waterways
No of MSYs 5.50 No of Slots 13
Problem Statement 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.
Without the assistance of AmeriCorps,projects focusing on the imporvement of trails and waterways would not be
adequately addressed. 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
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 mitigation and 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.
Selected Interventions
Improvement of Trail
Improvement of Waterways
Describe Interventions AmeriCorps members will have the necessary skills to successfully improve a minimum of 50 miles of trails and
waterways.AmeriCorps members will be engaged in projects which focus on trail and waterway improvements.
Improvements will include but not limited to invasive species removal by hand,small tool and or chainsaws,trail
improvement and waterways improved to include mitigation control and Flood recovery. A minimum of 25 miles
of trail will be improved and a minimum of 25 miles of waterways will be improved.
Output
(PRIORITY) ENS: Miles of trails or rivers improved and/or created
Target 50 Miles
Measured By Activity Logs,Survey
Describe Instrument Project accomplishment forms along with project sponsor surveys will be used to verify achieved
improvements along trails and waterways.Project sponsor surveys will recognize their level of
satisfaction by rating completed projects as"satisfied"or above. Project accomplishment forms along
with project sponsor surveys will be used to verify achieved improvements along trails and waterways.
Project sponsor surveys will recognize their level of satisfaction by rating completed projects as
"satisfied"or above. Additionally,Crew Leaders and Team Leader will maintain project specific
information to track activities.
PM Summary Report for Application ID: 14AC159511 Page 2
Outcome
A minimum of 50 miles of trails and waterways will be improved
Target 50 Miles
Measured By Other
Describe Instrument 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.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 Summary Report for Application ID: 14AC 159511 Pagel
Grant application ID: 14AC 159511
NOFA: Commission AmeriCorps State FY 2014(New and Continuation)
Type: Continuation Status: Submitted to Prime
Submitted:
Legal Applicant Name: Board of Weld County Commissioners,Weld County Division of Human Services
012 and 015: Members unemployed prior to service
Focus Area Economic Opportunity
Objective Other Economic Opportunity
Title O12 and O15:Members unemployed prior to service
No of MSYs 4.49 No of Slots 13
Problem Statement Weld County's demographics includes a high volume of families living in poverty,a higher than average high
school dropout rate as well as a higher than average unemployment rate for youth. WCYCC AmeriCorps will
recruit and enroll economically disadvantaged National Service Participants. 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.
Selected Interventions
Recruit&enroll economically disadvantaged member
Describe Interventions WCYCC will recruit and enroll economically disadvantaged individuals as National Service Participants,to
successfully complete an AmeriCorps term of service.Members will be provided with soft skills,tools to job
search and post service case managment to assist members to secure employment and or enter post secondary
educational opportunities.
Output
Members who are economically disadvantaged skill secure employment within 1 year following service
Target 10 Members
Measured By Other
Describe Instrument Training logs,time sheets,approved resumes,member surveys,acquired certifications will aid in
verification of acquired members development of education and employability.Upon exit from
AmeriCorps,additional measures during post service follow up will include education and or
employment verification to include school records,pay stubs,letters of employment verification and
verbal conversations between WCYCC staff and applicable personnel representing educational facilities
or employers.
Outcome
I3 AmeriCorps members will be economically disads antaged
Target 13 Members
Measured By Other
Describe Instrument Training logs,time sheets,approved resumes,member surveys,acquired certifications will aid in
verification of acquired members development of education and employability. Upon exit from
AmeriCorps,additional measures during post service follow up will include education and or
employment verification to include school records,pay stubs,letters of employment verification and
verbal conversations between WCYCC staff and applicable personnel representing educational facilities
or employers.
ASSURANCES Page 1 of 4
`dttrylAisyve4 ¢«64u,e4,L Yer
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.
n
• prohibit employees from theirposition for a purpose that constitutes or presents the
Will establish safeguards to using p rP p
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 HI 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.
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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 project or 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:http://www.usdoi.eov/archive/fbci/effect-rfra.pdf.
• Will comply with all other federal statutes relating to nondiscrimination,including any self-evaluation requirements. These
include but are 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;(0 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—(1)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 though 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 4/8/2014
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 176(f)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
If you are not applying for a Social Innovation Fund grant,you may disregard this section.
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ASSURANCES Page 4 of 4
• 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.
• Has adopted and implemented standard of conduct policies and procedures in regard to procurements which meet the
requirements of either 45 C.F.R. §2541.360(b)(3),or 2 C.F.R. §215.42 and 45 C.F.R. §2543.42.
• Has adopted and implemented policies and procedures in regard to the applicant's subgrant competitions which will provide
reasonable assurance that conflicts of interest(or appearances of conflicts of interest)on the part of reviewers or decision-makers
are identified and appropriately mitigated.
https://egrants.cns.gov/cnsmisc/eAssur.htrn 4/8/2014
CERTIFICATIONS �G •i ud Page 1 of2
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 I 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 § 180.800(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(see 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;
B. 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.govicnsmise/eCerts.htrn 4/8/2014
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 4/8/2014
Page 1 of 1
4/8/2014, 10:16 AM, EDT home my account help logout
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Thank you
You have successfully completed the action to Submit 424 to prime applicant on
4/8/2014 at 10:16 AM, 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
Release version: 5.8.4
•
https://egrants.cns.gov/espan/gr app/thanks jsp?sid=WpnDTGDXFBtZBXyT1PmgKh02gv... 4/8/2014
Esther Gesick
From: Tami Grant
Sent: Tuesday, April 08, 2014 7:34 AM
To: Esther Gesick
Subject: RE: e-Grants
Hi Esther,
I received confirmation from Serve Colorado that we will be authorized to submit the grant today due to verified
technical difficulties. I have modified the two errors and believe it's good to go.
Again, I appreciate your continued support with this grant initiative!
Tami Grant
Youth Program Manager
Employment Services of Weld County
3158 N. 11th Avenue
Greeley, CO 80631
970-353-3800 ext. 6754
i
fi •
Confidentiality Notice:This electronic transmission and any attached documents or other writings are intended only for
the person or entity to which it is addressed and may contain information that is privileged,confidential or otherwise
protected from disclosure.If you have received this communication in error, please immediately notify sender by return
e-mail and destroy the communication. Any disclosure, copying, distribution or the taking of any action concerning the
contents of this communication or any attachments by anyone other than the named recipient is strictly prohibited.
From: Esther Gesick
Sent: Monday, April 07, 2014 5:11 PM
To: Tami Grant
Subject: RE: e-Grants
Documents
Evaluation-Value for this required document must not be NOT SENT.Use the scroll bar on the
Documents tab to verify that all documents listed are not in the"NOT SENT"status.
Documents
Labor Union Concurrence-Value for this required document must not be NOT SENT.Use the scroll
bar on the Documents tab to verify that all documents listed are not in the"NOT SENT"status.
Esther E. Gesick
Clerk to the Board
1150 O Street(P.O. Box 7581 Greeley, CO 80632
tel: (970)336-7215 X4226
'Ml`T rhl
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1
Confidentiality Notice:This electronic transmission and any attached documents or other writings are intended only for the person or entity to which it is addressed
and may contain information that is privileged,confidential or otherwise protected from disclosure.If you have received this communication in error,please
immediately notify sender by return e-mail and destroy the communication.Any disclosure,copying,distribution or the taking of any action concerning the contents
of this communication or any attachments by anyone other than the named recipient is strictly prohibited.
From: Tami Grant
Sent: Monday, April 07, 2014 3:38 PM
To: Esther Gesick
Subject: e-Grants
Importance: High
Hi Esther,
Would you please submit our grant in e-Grants? I think it's ready to go!
• NOFA: Commission AmeriCorps State FY 2014 (New and Continuation)
• Grant Application ID #: 14AC159511
• Grant ID #: 12AFHCO0010002
• Due Date: 01/22/2014
• Summary: These grant funds support community service programs under AmeriCorps and operate
through state service commissions
Also,while you're in e-Grants, the State has asked that we remove Erik Warrington from being a user and add Holly
Nelson with the same electronic preferences. I think in the past it was a question of who should do this and the State
has said it's on our end.
Thanks!!!
Tami Grant
Youth Program Manager
Employment Services of Weld County
3158 N. 11th Avenue
Greeley, CO 80631
970-353-3800 ext. 6754
Y
I
Confidentiality Notice:This electronic transmission and any attached documents or other writings are intended only for
the person or entity to which it is addressed and may contain information that is privileged, confidential or otherwise
protected from disclosure. If you have received this communication in error, please immediately notify sender by return
e-mail and destroy the communication.Any disclosure, copying, distribution or the taking of any action concerning the
contents of this communication or any attachments by anyone other than the named recipient is strictly prohibited.
2
Tami Grant
From: Gaskill -GovOffice, Jeremy[jeremy.gaskill@state.co.us]
Sent: Friday, April 04, 2014 10:47 AM
To: Angie Bertrand; Tami Grant; Michelle Petix; Jennifer Cashmen; Laura Mulvey
Subject: Continuation Application Update:
Good Morning,
It's come to my attention that programs will be required to re-enter their Performance Measures as part of this year's
continuation process. eGrants modified their performance measure worksheets this year and thus (this year only)will not be
able to copy over. Please note that you'll thus have to go into the Performance Measure section and redraft your measures.
Any changes to your measures from last year should still be communicated in the continuation changes narrative.
Thanks...and let me know if you have any questions.
Jeremy I
Jeremy Gaskill I Deputy Director
Serve Colorado I Office of Lt.Governor Joseph Garcia
225 E. 16th Ave,Suite 575 I Denver,Colorado 80203
w. 303.866.25651 Jeremv.Gaskill@state.co.us
Under Colorado's Open Records Act (CORA), all e-mails sent by or to me on this state-owned e-mail account
may be subject to public disclosure,
i it
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Hello