September 14, 2016
Grant Selection and Performance Task Force Minutes 9-14-16
Present: Ed Barrett, Robert Liscord, Nicole Pellenz, Carol Rancourt, David Whiry, Joe Young
Absent: Kevin Bois, Laura Hudson
Staff: Michael Ashmore, Pelin Fitzpatrick
Guests: No guests
Minutes: 67
Meeting convened at 10:00 AM
1. Follow-up on state audit findings:
PF described the process for issuance of a corrective action and disallowance. MA provided additional information about the state audit timeline and the specific findings. He also described CNCS’s method of assigning mitigation levels and disallowance assessments and how it was used with the program.
2. Supplemental Request for Formula Funding
PF described the supplemental request made in June. $30,000 was made for increasing public awareness of AmeriCorps by supporting the three formula programs with $10,000 each, GINNE, MCD, & RSU14. These programs’ budgets will be increased through amendment. Deliverables
The request for $60,000 to create planning grants was not funded. DW question, was this a one-time item or JY asked if it is possible that we could under expend on purpose, creating a pool of reserved funds. MA noted that it is not possible to reserve funds because the entire amount must be encumbered and programs.
CR recommended that programs be asked to cooperate on a joint campaign, noting it is a more efficient use of funds JY added that PSA’s could be common across programs. He also noted that the programs will need to develop the strategies based on the target audience. Group suggested that social media can be effective and inexpensive. RL pointed out that, while he like the idea of joint work, one organization needs to lead that plan. CR offered that the Commission contacted Senior Corps to create PSA’s and which encourage seniors to volunteer, a generic request based on the similarities across the three distinct SC programs. This is a similar situation to the three formula programs, crosscut is that they are AmeriCorps. EB asked if the overall goal is this going to be raising awareness or recruitment, noting that the approaches would be very different. MA explained that the request for funds submitted called for branding and awareness over recruitment, but that the ultimate goal of increased awareness is to assist in getting more Mainers involved in AmeriCorps
DW recommended pooling some funds from all three programs to create overall awareness and reserve some for program specific outreach. JY suggested something like an AmeriCorps Facebook page with program links which would need to be updated and monitored regularly. RL mentioned creating memes, graphics and videos, as Social media might not be as effective as direct outreach to places like schools and social service organizations on campuses, etc..
3.Contracts & Program Funding: TAKE2
PF reviewed the status of the Take2 application, noting the letter of notification was received (award is pending prior to Oct 1st) stating that the program will be funded at the amount requested. PF is working with the program to develop the items needed to meet the Task Force’s conditions for funding and is drafting the year 2 contract so it will be ready when the final award is made.
4.Timeline for the upcoming competition:
AmeriCorps Competitive
PF reviewed the timeline for the upcoming AmeriCorps State Competitive grant competition. NOFA has been issued. Commission is developing a state RFP which should be issued in early October with a due date in late November. Peer review will take place in early December followed by Grants review in late December. Clarification and corrections will occur in the first week in January as will the development of funding recommendations by GTF. Because the federal due date is prior to the date of the Commission meeting, it is likely that the Executive Committee will need to act on the recommendations.
Opiate Abuse Reduction Applications
Opiate reduction initiative. MA-noted that the NOFA includes a separate deadline later in the spring for programs supporting Community policing in promise zones (none in Maine) and for programs targeting he reduction in opiate abuse. CNCS also issued a notice that it would fund commissions up to $50,000 in support of outreach and training to potential applicants in these areas. The Commission submitted a request and it looks likely to be funded. The proposal submitted included funding for three contractors to work with potential applicants, one in law enforcement one with expertise on substance abuse and treatment and a third with expertise in crafting AmeriCorps proposals. Applications for this special initiative would be due in May.
EB recommended that the law enforcement contractor reach out to the various police agencies that have received funding to support action in this area. Also noted was Law enforcement approaches are diversionary – getting people to treatment.
Closing Notes:
DW will not be there on Friday. EB will report out.
Meeting adjourned at 11:07am