Program Development & Training Officer: April 2021

Major projects completed

  • Wrap up of Member Conference details prior to S. Elliott’s departure, including certificates, invoicing, distribution of event materials, follow-up with sponsor, etc.
  • Individualized training/meetings on multiple topics for Healthy Acadia, GPCOG, KVCAP, MEAP & MYA, in addition to regular Technical assistance.
  • Staff agency and application assessment for all Rural State applicants.
  • Finalized of guidance for programs resulting from new Background Check rules taking effect on May first.
  • Developed staff training on new NSCHC rules and developed waiver request for program subject to Maine DHHS background check requirements to avoid duplication.
  • Organized Service Enterprise cohort re-start after inability to get the training organized in mid-winter
  • Submitted CIF progress report to AmeriCorps agency.
  • Individual meetings with all VGF grantees to clarify closeout requirements and missing reports
  • Facilitated participation of one of our grantees in national presentation on AmeriCorps supported after-school programs.

Issues to be aware of

  • New NSCHC rules will require multiple training opportunities and individual support to ensure that programs adapt their enrollment processes before bulk of new applicants are processed.
  • Volunteer Reception Center Training, normally scheduled for late May/early June is uncertain due to lasting effects of COVID – this is a grantee requirement that was waived in 2020 due to COVID.

Major focus of effort in the new month

  • Final certifications for VGF Closeout and submission of federal closeout paperwork.
  • Complete online course for AmeriCorps Planning
  • Renewed work with Child Development Services personnel and Adult Education staff at DOE on application design. Outreach to Public health to try and re-energize interest in application.  Other outreach to potential application candidates.
  • Update remaining training Writeboards ahead of summer training season.

Other activity

  • Facilitated E & E Task Force Meeting and follow-up.
  • Ongoing AmeriCorps & VGF Assistance to existing grantees via email, teleconference & face to face.
  • Procurement system management and initial entry of financial documents in state purchasing system, including purchase orders, bids, and contracts.