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FY26 NCJC App
The Neighborhood Centers of Johnson County - FY26-FY27 Joint Funding ApplicationCommunity Impact Funding FY26-FY27 - Joint Application Application Status: Submitted Application Submission Details Executive Director: Rachel Rockwell I certify that the information submitted in this application is true and correct to the best of my knowledge: Yes Submission Confirmation Email Sent To: chastity-dillard@ncjc.org Submitted By: Chastity Dillard on 10/11/2024 at 3:35 PM (CST) The Neighborhood Centers of Johnson County FY26-FY27 Joint Funding Application General Information Agency Name The Neighborhood Centers of Johnson County Executive Director Name Rachel Rockwell Board President Name Mel Sanders Requestor Name Chastity Dillard Requestor Phone (319) 354-2886 Requestor Email chastity-dillard@ncjc.org Agency Mission Statement and Description of Community Need Your agency's mission statement will automatically populate from your profile. You can leave it as is or update it below. The Description of Community Need is also available in your agency profile, but it will not auto-fill. You may copy and paste it from your profile or write a new statement below Agency Mission Statement 10/16/2024 9:26 AM CST © 2024 e-CImpact page 1 of 32 Mission Statement: Neighborhood Centers work together with neighbors and neighborhoods to build better futures through education, outreach, and inclusive programs that celebrate diversity, strengthen families, and create safe spaces for community. Vision Statement: Neighborhood Centers S.H.I.N.E. Safe Healthful Inclusive Neighborhood- level Engagement Tagline: A Safe Space Community Need: What specific need in the community is your agency addressing? Describe the extent of the need, including current local data with source information and the major factors in the community contributing to the need. 10/16/2024 9:26 AM CST © 2024 e-CImpact page 2 of 32 The COVID-19 pandemic revealed disparities in Johnson County, disrupting health, well-being, and economic stability. Many low-income families still face barriers to essential services, affordable childcare, and safe environments for their children. Neighborhood Centers acts as a vital bridge, stabilizing these families through comprehensive support and connections to build a healthier community. We focus on new Iowans—immigrants, refugees, undocumented families, and individuals resettling from larger cities—alongside low-income households. While open to all, we prioritize welcoming these populations who often encounter unique challenges, such as language barriers and systemic inequities. Our programs link families to services, educational support, and resources for stronger futures. Childcare Access: The Better Together 2030 report cites the Iowa Women’s Foundation: for every licensed childcare slot, three children need care – a significant gap. During the pandemic, closures and reduced capacity disrupted employment and child stability. We help fill this gap with affordable, quality childcare that supports children's development and allows parents to maintain employment. Youth Safety and Well-Being: Community safety and student well-being are pressing concerns. In the 2023 Iowa City Community School District’s Conditions for Learning School Climate Survey, only 21.04% of elementary students and 30.11% of secondary students perceived their emotional safety at school positively. For physical safety, 57.3% of elementary students and 56.29% of secondary students reported feeling physically safe. These numbers highlight a need for trauma-informed interventions to enhance youth safety and support. Community Violence: Johnson County is addressing community violence, including gun violence, through initiatives like the Community Violence Intervention, which leverages trusted voices to engage those at highest risk and strengthen neighborhood resilience. According to the CDC, community violence—violence between unrelated individuals outside the home—disproportionately impacts youth and communities of color. Youth violence is especially concerning, with homicide being the third leading cause of death for young people aged 10-24. Addressing Systemic Gaps: The loss of 21st Century Community Learning Centers funding in 2022 for our youth programs eliminated scholarships for critical afterschool support, affecting at least 90 kids and their families over the past two years. This gap limits youth development and supervision, forcing families to choose between work and providing a safe environment for their children. Expansion into Towncrest: We are expanding into the Towncrest neighborhood to address pressing needs related to safety, violence, and mental health. To better serve this community, we are building a third neighborhood center, offering affordable early childhood programs, afterschool care, and family support services to underserved families. Additionally, our fourth new building will serve as a family resource center to many in this area. To address these needs, we have expanded partnerships and developed innovative solutions, such as the planned Resilience Hubs at one or more of our centers. These Hubs will provide mental health resources, educational workshops, and safe spaces before, during, and after crises—contributing to long-term stability and reducing root causes of violence. Our collaborations include the University of Iowa Mobile Health Clinic and other organizations for healthcare access and our educational partnerships to fill service gaps. Impact Summary: Each year, we serve over 2,000 individuals—youth and adults—through a wide range of services, including early childhood education, youth programs, family support services, and community engagement projects. By coordinating local support and providing critical resources, we meet community needs and foster stability for families in Johnson County. United Way JWC Impact Areas Please select the United Way JWC Impact Areas that your agency's services support. Note that these areas have been recently updated. Hover over each option to see a description and examples of relevant programming for each impact area. 10/16/2024 9:26 AM CST © 2024 e-CImpact page 3 of 32 Healthy Community Youth Opportunity Community Resiliency Financial Security City of Iowa City - City Steps Priority Areas If you are applying for City of Iowa City funding, please indicate the City of Iowa City - City Steps Priority Areas that your agency services support: Services to the homeless or those at risk of homelessness Childcare Transportation Health/Mental Health Services Youth Activities and Programming Elderly activities and programming Assistance for persons with disabilities Food Pantries Services for victims of domestic violence Services for immigrants and refugees Utility Assistance Financial literacy and credit repair programs Other - Please Specify Below If you selected 'Other' as a City of Iowa City - City Steps Priority Area, please specify: 10/16/2024 9:26 AM CST © 2024 e-CImpact page 4 of 32 Johnson County Priority Areas Please indicate the Johnson County Priority Areas that your agency services support: Basic Human Needs Child and Family Wellbeing Health/Mental Health Grant Narratives - Funder Requests Please complete the narratives below for each funder from whom you are requesting funding. If you are not requesting funding from one of the five listed funders, please enter 'N/A' in the corresponding field. You can find eligibility details and contact information for each funding entity by hovering over the questions below. 1. United Way JWC Funding Narrative: Tell us about your services to Johnson and/or Washington County and how United Way priorities are represented in your operation. If your agency serves a larger regional area, please provide the percent of overall clients that are Johnson or Washington County residents. If your request is program specific, please provide the percentage of Johnson and Washington County clients for that program. 10/16/2024 9:26 AM CST © 2024 e-CImpact page 5 of 32 Healthy Community: Improving Health and Well-Being for All Neighborhood Centers promotes healthier communities by offering prenatal and doula care for low-income families from pregnancy through early childhood. Our multilingual Family Support team employs the Parents as Teachers curriculum, sharing vital knowledge on child development. We partner with the University of Iowa Mobile Clinic to provide free health screenings and education. In 2024, our “Lunch Bunch” summer lunch program in partnership with St. Andrew Presbyterian Church served 2,665 meals to 302 children. Our nutrition program serves breakfast, lunch and snacks for 96 children in licensed early childhood programs and snacks for 185 kids in licensed afterschool programs daily. Collaborations with CommUnity Crisis Services, Table to Table, HACAP and Grow Johnson County ensure access to healthy, locally-grown and culturally-relevant food options. We enhance mental health support through Unity University, offering six- week courses in restorative justice and cognitive behavioral therapy. Youth Opportunity: Helping Young People Realize Their Full Potential We provide licensed early childhood education for 96 children aged 0 to 5 at our Pheasant Ridge and Broadway Centers. Both centers are accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) and have received high ratings from the Iowa Quality for Kids (IQ4K) rating system, with a strong emphasis on literacy and school readiness. Our licensed and IQ4K-rated afterschool programs serve 185 children, emphasizing social-emotional learning, health, social skills, and life skills. Our Youth Engaged in Leadership & Learning (YELL) program supports 26 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade youth in building leadership and social responsibility. Each summer, our Youth Empowered to Serve (YES!) program offers internships and job readiness training for 25 teens ages 14–17, ensuring pathways to professional success. Family engagement is key, with home visits, family nights, and support services from our multilingual Family Support team. Community Resiliency: Laying the Groundwork for a Prepared Future We are in the planning stages of establishing Resiliency Hubs to strengthen community response and recovery capabilities in our neighborhoods. These hubs will serve as safe spaces for residents, providing vital resources such as internet access, translation services, mental health support, and disaster education. Our vision includes engaging volunteers, offering sustainable power solutions, and building trust to ensure that our neighborhoods are equipped for both everyday needs and emergencies. We are currently collaborating with local partners and conducting needs assessments to lay a strong foundation for a more resilient future. Financial Security: Building Financial Stability and Strength The YES! Program provides paid internships and job readiness training for 25 youth ages 14–17, in partnership with Goodwill of the Heartland, including financial education sessions to prepare participants for future employment. In 2024, the City of Iowa City awarded Neighborhood Centers American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds for their Inclusive Economic Development initiative. This will enable us to expand financial literacy and entrepreneurship services, primarily supporting BIPOC entrepreneurs and youth. We will provide workshops, networking events, competitions, and Summer Youth Entrepreneurship Boot Camps, creating a robust pipeline of opportunities for young entrepreneurs. All programs supported by this initiative are in the planning stages and will be implemented to support economic growth and empower underserved entrepreneurs to achieve financial independence and success. 10/16/2024 9:26 AM CST © 2024 e-CImpact page 6 of 32 2. Johnson County Funding Narrative: Johnson County prioritizes funding for organizations addressing basic needs, improving child and family wellbeing and/or health outcomes for Johnson County residents. Tell us about your services that address any or all of the County priority areas. If your agency serves a larger regional area, please provide the percent of overall clients that are Johnson County residents. Basic Human Needs Neighborhood Centers ensures access to essential resources through comprehensive food security and emergency support initiatives. Our nutrition program addresses basic nutrition needs for children and families, serving over 2,665 meals through our "Lunch Bunch" summer program, along with daily meals (breakfast, lunch and snack) for 96 children in early childhood programs and snacks for 185 children in our afterschool programs. These efforts are supported through partnerships with CommUnity Crisis Services, Table to Table, HACAP and Grow Johnson County, enabling us to provide nutritious, culturally relevant food options for the diverse families we serve. Additionally, we are working to establish Resiliency Hubs, which will serve as resource-rich environments, enhancing community preparedness and response to crises by filling gaps in emergency services. These hubs will be pivotal in building long-term strategies to support our community’s most vulnerable populations, ensuring that basic human needs are met during emergencies and times of need. Child and Family Wellbeing Neighborhood Centers prioritizes early childhood education and family support to create strong foundations for children’s future success. Our NAEYC-accredited early childhood programs at the Pheasant Ridge and Broadway Centers serve 96 children aged 0 to 5, focusing on literacy, social-emotional development, and school readiness. We also engage 185 children in in-school, afterschool, and summer learning programs to foster academic and social growth. Our Youth Empowered to Serve (YES!) program build leadership, social responsibility, and job readiness for youth ages 14 to 17, preparing them for future careers and empowering them as community leaders. Our Youth Engaged in Leadership & Learning program (YELL) offers experiences of leadership, wellness and community engagement for 3rd, 4th, and 5th graders. For families, our multilingual Family Support team, fluent in eight languages, provides prenatal services, home visitation, and regular family nights, making essential parenting and educational resources accessible to diverse households. Our Parents as Teachers curriculum equips parents with the tools they need to support their child’s development from pregnancy through early childhood, promoting long-term family stability. By combining these services, we ensure a holistic approach to child and family wellbeing, strengthening both immediate and future outcomes. Health/Mental Health Neighborhood Centers fosters healthier communities through preventive health services, mental health support, and wellness programming. Our partnership with the University of Iowa Mobile Clinic enables us to offer free health screenings and education to underserved populations. Monthly clinics at the Pheasant Ridge Center help meet the health needs of our diverse community members, improving overall health access and outcomes. We also focus on enhancing mental health support through our innovative Unity University initiative, which provides six-week sessions on restorative justice and cognitive behavioral therapy to promote community healing and resilience. Through this program, we are building a foundation for stronger mental health 10/16/2024 9:26 AM CST © 2024 e-CImpact page 7 of 32 resources and creating environments where individuals and families feel supported and connected. Future initiatives, such as the planned Resiliency Hubs, will also prioritize mental health by offering a space for recovery and support during times of crisis, ensuring no resident is left without the help they need. Serving Johnson County Residents All of Neighborhood Centers’ participants are Johnson County residents, reflecting our commitment to local families. Through family support, early childhood education, and youth development, we address County priorities and build a healthier, more resilient community. 3. City of Iowa City Funding Narrative: Tell us about your services to Iowa City and how the City Steps Priorities are represented in your operation. If the agency serves a regional area, please provide % of overall clients that are Iowa City residents, if your request is program specific, please provide % of Iowa City clients for that program. Neighborhood Centers serves 100% Johnson County residents, with a significant majority residing in Iowa City. Our programs address several of the City Steps priority areas, specifically Childcare, Health/Mental Health Services, Youth Activities and Programming, and Services for Immigrants and Refugees, by providing direct services that meet critical needs and contribute to a stronger, healthier community. Childcare Neighborhood Centers provides high-quality, accessible early childhood education to 96 children aged 0 to 5 at our Pheasant Ridge and Broadway Centers. Both sites are NAEYC-accredited and IQ4K-rated, ensuring that children receive the highest standard of care. Our early childhood programs focus on literacy, social-emotional development, and school readiness, helping children build the foundational skills needed for long-term academic and social success. We provide daily meals, snacks, and age-appropriate learning environments, supporting working families by offering affordable, safe, and enriching childcare options. Additionally, our multilingual Family Support team connects parents with resources, conducts home visits, and hosts family nights to engage parents in their child’s learning and development, ensuring holistic family support. Health/Mental Health Services We promote health and well-being through a range of services that directly impact the physical and mental health of Iowa City residents. Our collaboration with the University of Iowa Mobile Clinic enables us to provide free health screenings, health education, and referrals to underserved families in Iowa City. We also focus on prenatal health by providing comprehensive support and culturally competent doula care for expectant mothers. Our Unity University initiative enhances mental health resources by offering community- based courses that address trauma, stress management, and restorative justice, building resiliency and emotional well-being for participants. Youth Activities and Programming Neighborhood Centers engages over 185 children in our in-school, afterschool, and summer programs, offering structured activities that focus on academics, social skills, and health. We create a safe space for children to learn and grow, with daily programming that includes tutoring, physical activities, and enrichment opportunities. Our programs extend beyond the classroom through initiatives like Youth Empowered to Serve (YES!), which provides paid internships and job readiness training to 25 youth each summer, and the YELL leadership program, which builds leadership skills and social responsibility among middle and high school students. These programs prepare youth for success by building confidence, skills, and a sense of 10/16/2024 9:26 AM CST © 2024 e-CImpact page 8 of 32 community involvement. Services for Immigrants and Refugees We are proud to serve many of Iowa City’s immigrant, refugee, and newcomer families through a range of targeted support services. Our Family Support team, collectively fluent in eight languages, provides culturally competent programming that includes home visits, health screenings, parenting classes, and advocacy. This team bridges language and cultural gaps, ensuring that families can access the resources they need to thrive in Iowa City. Our early childhood education and youth programming also cater to these families, offering multilingual staff, culturally relevant activities, and a welcoming environment where diversity is celebrated and supported. We help families navigate systems, advocate for their rights, and connect with local resources, fostering a sense of community and belonging. Summary Neighborhood Centers addresses Iowa City’s City Steps priorities through childcare, health services, youth programming, and support for immigrant and refugee families. With most participants from Iowa City, we are a trusted partner promoting family stability, child development, and community resilience. 4. City of Coralville Funding Narrative: How do your services specifically address needs in Coralville? If your agency serves a regional area, please provide the percentage of overall clients that are Coralville residents. If your request is program specific, please provide the percentage of Coralville clients for that program. 10/16/2024 9:26 AM CST © 2024 e-CImpact page 9 of 32 Neighborhood Centers recognizes the need for expanded services in Coralville and has a vision to grow our outreach to better meet the needs of this community over time. Currently, 1-2% of our enrolled program participants reside in Coralville, and we regularly see Coralville families and youth attending our community events. We acknowledge that this number does not fully capture our potential to serve a larger Coralville population. With increased capacity, we aspire to enhance our presence in the community, developing targeted programs and resources tailored to Coralville’s unique needs. A notable portion of children who participate in our youth programming live in neighborhoods near our Pheasant Ridge and Broadway Neighborhood Centers in Iowa City but attend Northwest Junior High School in Coralville. Many of these youth benefit from our afterschool and summer programs, and we maintain strong connections with their families. According to the 2023 Iowa City Community School District’s (ICCSD) Conditions for Learning School Climate Survey, 33% of middle school students reported feeling unsafe at school, and a significant portion expressed concerns related to mental health and academic engagement. This data highlights a crucial need for enhanced youth services and support in Coralville, which Neighborhood Centers aims to address as we expand our capacity. We also recognize Coralville’s growing immigrant and refugee population and are committed to building upon our current efforts to support these families. Our Family Support Workers currently serve families across Johnson County, including Coralville, through home visits, family advocacy, and connections to vital resources. These services are delivered in multiple languages, ensuring that diverse families feel supported and empowered. Our hope is to establish a dedicated Coralville Outreach Team in the future, focusing on building partnerships, delivering direct services, and identifying community needs. This team would enable us to be more responsive to Coralville residents, providing culturally relevant support, educational resources, and a robust network of services. While we are not in a position to launch this initiative today, it remains a priority goal as we continue to expand our capacity. Overall, our aspiration is to contribute more fully to Coralville’s wellbeing, bringing our strengths in youth development, family support, and community engagement to a broader group of residents as we grow. With time, resources, and community collaboration, we hope to establish a stronger presence and provide more comprehensive support for Coralville families. 5. North Liberty Funding Narrative: How will this program/project benefit the community of North Liberty? What percentage of the program/project benefits North Liberty residents, and approximately how many North Liberty residents will you be serving with this program/project? 10/16/2024 9:26 AM CST © 2024 e-CImpact page 10 of 32 Neighborhood Centers currently has a limited but impactful presence in North Liberty, with 1-2% of our enrolled participants residing in the community. One of our key programs, a Before and After School Program (BASP), operates directly at Garner Elementary, serving over 30 children and their families throughout the school year. This program not only provides critical academic and social support for students but also offers a safe and nurturing environment, helping parents balance work and family responsibilities. While our presence in North Liberty is modest, we recognize the potential to expand and better address the community’s needs. Our vision includes broadening our youth programming and family support services in North Liberty, providing greater access to resources that support positive development, health, and well- being. The feedback we’ve received from families engaged in our programs indicates a strong need for additional youth services and family support in the area. North Liberty’s rapid growth has highlighted gaps in accessible services for low-income families and youth, particularly in affordable childcare, mental health support, and culturally relevant programming for the increasingly diverse community. Neighborhood Centers is committed to exploring new opportunities to partner with local organizations and the City of North Liberty to address these gaps, aligning our future expansion efforts with the community’s priorities. Although our capacity is currently limited, we are focused on building the infrastructure and partnerships needed to expand our reach. Establishing a dedicated North Liberty outreach effort is part of our long-term strategy to ensure that more families and youth have access to vital resources that foster resilience, educational success, and community engagement. Our existing BASP at Garner Elementary is an important first step in establishing a stronger foundation in North Liberty, and as we continue to grow, we hope to bring additional programs, such as youth empowerment, mental health resources, and family advocacy, to serve the broader community. With time, resources, and continued support, Neighborhood Centers aspires to be a trusted partner in North Liberty, helping families thrive and youth reach their full potential. Grant Narratives - Additional Agency Information All agencies applying for funding from any of the listed entities must complete the following questions. If a question does not apply to your organization, please provide an explanation. 6. Provide a succinct, specific description of your primary target populations(s). Describe clients as a group in terms of their primary needs and strengths. What barriers to success do they face? If your agency serves a regional area, please provide % of overall clients that are Johnson County residents. 10/16/2024 9:26 AM CST © 2024 e-CImpact page 11 of 32 For over 50 years, Neighborhood Centers has served families in economically vulnerable neighborhoods and schools. Many of these families are new to the community and in transition—seeking safety, employment, quality childcare, supportive schools, and strong community connections. We specialize in serving new Iowans, including immigrants, refugees, undocumented families, and Americans resettling from larger cities, as well as local low-income households. While our programs are open to all, we focus on welcoming these populations, who face unique challenges such as language barriers, cultural adjustments, and systemic inequities. By connecting families to essential services, educational support, and community resources, we help them build strong and resilient futures. Our grassroots approach has allowed us to adapt to emerging community needs. Over the decades, we have supported a diverse range of populations: local Iowan families in the 1970s and 1980s; refugees from war-torn Asian countries; families relocating from impoverished urban areas in the late 1980s and early 1990s; and waves of lottery winners and political asylees from Sudan and Central America in the late 1990s and early 2000s. In the 2010s, our focus expanded to include new arrivals from Central Africa, including the Democratic Republic of the Congo, alongside continued support for low-income Iowans and Americans relocating from out of state. As families make our neighborhoods their home, our role is to help them settle in, build social capital, and discover their pathway to self-efficacy. Our family-centered, community-based approach reflects a long-term commitment to enhancing the quality of life for families in the neighborhoods and schools we serve. Recognizing that a child’s future success and happiness are closely linked to community support, we work diligently to make life’s transitions fruitful, particularly for children. We connect families to broader community resources and services, understanding that the well-being of children is intertwined with the stability and health of their families. Currently, we operate two neighborhood-based centers in Iowa City: the Pheasant Ridge Center on the west side and the Broadway Center on the southeast side. We also have a presence in four area schools, providing before- and after-school programs. In addition, we conduct outreach to mobile home communities to ensure our services reach families in harder-to-access areas. In exciting recent developments, we have expanded into the Iowa City Towncrest neighborhood with two new properties. At 1041 Arthur Street, we are developing a new neighborhood center and early childhood program site, which will feature 60 early childhood slots and 30 for afterschool care. This facility will include a full-service kitchen, computer lab, library, and state-of-the-art playground, tailored to serve diverse community needs. While we are still assessing the specific needs of this neighborhood, the population of Census Tract 14, where Towncrest is located, mirrors the diversity of our current service areas. With a population of 4,927, the neighborhood is 12.3% Black/African-American, 6.6% multiracial, and 5.9% Hispanic/Latino. Over 7% of residents are foreign-born, and 6.5% speak a language other than English at home. This alignment with our primary service population makes us confident in meeting emerging demands All of the families we serve live in Johnson County. In addition to our work in Iowa City, we have a presence in North Liberty and Coralville through school-based programs and early childhood home visitation services. 10/16/2024 9:26 AM CST © 2024 e-CImpact page 12 of 32 7. Please explain how your agency promotes racial equity and inclusivity for historically oppressed and marginalized populations (including BIPOC, LGBTQ, immigrants/refugees, individuals with disabilities) through your services, for your clients and for staff. Neighborhood Centers is dedicated to advancing racial equity and inclusivity across all levels of our organization. We intentionally design our programs and services to support historically marginalized communities—including BIPOC individuals, LGBTQ+ communities, immigrants and refugees, and individuals with disabilities—by cultivating an inclusive and welcoming environment for all. Diverse Leadership and Representation We prioritize leadership and staffing that reflect the diverse backgrounds of our participants. Over 75% of our employees identify as people of color, with our management team predominantly composed of Black leaders, including our first Black Executive Director and Associate Director. This commitment ensures that our leadership mirrors the communities we serve. Our Board of Directors is also diverse, featuring a Black board president and two additional Black members who contribute valuable lived experiences and insights. Notably, 90% of our staff, including our executive and associate directors, identify as women. Culturally Responsive Services Our staff's cultural and linguistic diversity is vital for building authentic connections with families. We prioritize recruitment from our neighborhoods, ensuring representation from communities like African American, Latino, Sudanese, and Congolese. Many staff members speak multiple languages—English, Spanish, Arabic, French, Swahili, and Lingala—facilitating sensitive communication and tailored support, especially for families facing language barriers. Inclusive Programming Our Early Childhood Education, Youth Development, Family Support, and Community Engagement programs are designed to be inclusive and accessible. We provide multi-language services, including translated materials in Spanish, Arabic, and other local languages, to foster participation and belonging. We are also expanding our impact with a new neighborhood center in Towncrest, adding 60 early childhood slots and 30 for afterschool programs. Equity in Policy and Practice We understand that true equity requires systemic change beyond mere representation. Our policies and practices are regularly reviewed to align with equity goals. We promote inclusive spaces, train staff in cultural competence, and advocate for policy reforms addressing marginalized populations' needs. Notably, in 2013, we convened stakeholders to establish support systems for Central African families seeking refuge in Iowa City. Community Advocacy and Engagement Our commitment to community engagement includes initiatives like the Broadway Improvement Group, launched in the early 2000s, and collaborations on citywide planning for youth programming. These efforts amplify the voices of families often excluded from decision-making processes. We advocate for structural change and actively encourage parents to engage meaningfully in their children’s schools and community institutions. 10/16/2024 9:26 AM CST © 2024 e-CImpact page 13 of 32 Long-Term Commitment to Equity For over 50 years, we have adapted to meet the evolving needs of diverse populations, from local Iowan families to refugees from Asia, Sudan, Central America, and Central Africa. Our organization has embraced challenges and developed programs to address language barriers, cultural adjustment, and systemic inequities. This commitment to inclusivity and advocacy is evident in our culturally relevant services and efforts to empower families as leaders within their communities. In 2019, our dedication to equity in early education was recognized with the Iowa Association for the Education Young Child's Equity and Opportunity Award. As we expand into new neighborhoods and strengthen partnerships, we remain focused on creating equitable, inclusive, and welcoming spaces for all families to thrive. 8. Please describe how your Agency is collaborating with other service providers in the community to reduce costs, increase efficiency or improve services for community members. How are you addressing duplication of services or how are you serving a unique unmet need? Neighborhood Centers collaborates widely with local organizations to reduce costs, enhance efficiency, and improve services for families. These partnerships streamline resources and minimize duplication while tailoring services to meet diverse community needs. Key Collaborations: Iowa City Community School District (ICCSD): We operate Before and After School Programs (BASPs) at four elementary schools and preschool programs at Pheasant Ridge and Broadway Centers, expanding access and enriching support for working families. United Action for Youth (UAY): Collaborates on the SPARK program to provide safe, engaging spaces and outdoor activities for underserved youth, reaching more 5th-6th graders in our summer camps and afterschool programs. University of Iowa: Engages in research partnerships, grant evaluations, and practicum opportunities, enhancing professional development and evidence-based programming through projects like the Play Project. City of Iowa City Parks and Recreation Department: Offers swimming lessons for summer camps and supports community engagement events, promoting safety and reducing costs through shared park resources. Grow Johnson County: Supplies fresh produce for food distributions and garden activities, integrating nutrition education for families. Lions Club: Provides annual eye screenings, helping children meet kindergarten requirements and reducing barriers for families. Backyard Abundance and The Lena Project: Facilitate environmental education through the Earth Warrior summer camp, fostering an appreciation for nature and sustainability. Iowa City Public Library (ICPL): The Bookmobile visits our centers with culturally relevant books and programming for literacy support. Both centers also feature curated libraries offering diverse literature. 10/16/2024 9:26 AM CST © 2024 e-CImpact page 14 of 32 UI Mobile Health Clinic: Offers medical services to families near the Westside of Iowa City, ensuring healthcare access and early intervention. St. Andrew Presbyterian Church: Provided 2,553 meals to 182 children through the “Lunch Bunch” program, addressing food insecurity for families at Pheasant Ridge. Community Violence Intervention Collaboration: Partners with local organizations to address safety and trauma, providing resources to families affected by violence. Johnson County Conservation: The Nature Buds program offers early childhood nature-based learning, promoting outdoor exploration. The Iowa Children’s Museum: Engages families in interactive learning activities, enhancing our early childhood and family support programs. Citizenship and ELL Classes: Collaborates with IC Compassion and Friendship Community Project to provide language and civic support for immigrant and refugee families. Wonderful Westside Neighborhood Association: Partnered to establish the association in 2022, focusing on community advocacy and resident engagement. Youth Empowered to Succeed (YES) Program: Local partners provide internships, financial literacy training, and job experiences for youth aged 14 to 18. BASP Enrichment Programs: Features partnerships with organizations like Girls on the Run and Iowa Children's Museum, promoting health, leadership, and creativity. CommUnity: Hosts a monthly mobile food pantry at Pheasant Ridge, providing fresh produce and regular food distribution. Table to Table: Supplies our centers with rescued food items for pantry support. These partnerships not only reduce costs through shared resources but also ensure our programs address unique community needs. Our focus on multilingual families and newcomers involves cultural competency, making us a trusted resource for immigrants and refugees. By collaborating, we empower families and build a stronger, more connected community. 9. What costs are required of clients for services provided? Describe your fee structure and services available for those without ability to pay. 10/16/2024 9:26 AM CST © 2024 e-CImpact page 15 of 32 We do have a fee structure in place; however, service fees make up less than 8% of our total revenue. Our priority is to ensure that all services are accessible to families, regardless of their ability to pay. We welcome students who use Child Care Assistance (CCA) without restrictions and actively raise funds to provide scholarships when needed. Because our programs primarily serve low-income families, the majority of our funding comes from grants, public support, and CCA subsidies. Families enrolled in our early childhood and licensed afterschool programs who qualify for CCA may be subject to a co-payment, which is determined by the Department of Human Services based on income. This ensures that the cost remains affordable for a diverse range of financial situations. To further support access, we seek additional funding to cover expenses for families who may not qualify for CCA but still face financial barriers. Our goal is to make our programs inclusive and available to everyone in our community, ensuring no one is turned away due to inability to pay. 10. Describe how local funding received by your organization helped leverage other revenue in the last fiscal year. Identify and include specific grant/funding sources and amounts that were awarded that require a match. Neighborhood Centers did not receive any funding that required a match in the last fiscal year. However, local funding has been crucial in leveraging additional revenue and supporting our expansion efforts. Contributions from sources like Johnson County, GreenState Credit Union, and the City of Iowa City serve as strong indicators of community investment, which in turn attract additional grants and private donations. A primary example is our ongoing Raise the Roof capital campaign. Local funding has been pivotal in advancing our efforts to build a new neighborhood center and early childhood education facility at 1041 Arthur Street in the Towncrest neighborhood and establish a new Family Resource Center at 971 Muscatine Avenue. Early contributions from local partners have generated momentum and allowed us to secure additional support, moving us closer to our $3.5 million goal. Key local funding sources supporting the capital campaign include: $75,000 from GreenState Credit Union, which was instrumental in launching our public campaign. $2,000,000 from the City of Iowa City’s ARPA funds, dedicated to expanding our programs and services throughout Johnson County and enabling the purchase and renovation of our new sites. This foundational support has allowed us to approach additional donors and grant providers with a strong financial base, demonstrating that the campaign is well-supported locally and that there is shared commitment across sectors for the expansion of vital services. This community backing significantly boosts our credibility and attractiveness to other funders, allowing us to grow and sustain high-quality services for underserved families. Local funding not only covers project-related expenses but also supports our ongoing operations, staff wages, and program delivery, ensuring that we remain financially stable and responsive to emerging community needs. 10/16/2024 9:26 AM CST © 2024 e-CImpact page 16 of 32 Form A: FY26-FY27 Funding RequestsThe Neighborhood Centers of Johnson County Form A: FY26-FY27 Funding Requests Please complete this section by including your agency's projected budget for the entire funding cycle, covering FY26 and FY27, along with the total amounts you are requesting from each funder for that period. Saving Your Work You can save your progress at any time by clicking on the "Save My Work” link/icon located at both the bottom and top of the page. Submitting the Form Once you have answered all questions in the form, select the "Save My Work and Mark as Completed” link/icon at the bottom or top of this page to finalize your submission. Switching Forms You may switch between forms within this application by using the SWITCH FORMS feature in the upper right corner. Any updates made to the current form will be automatically saved when you switch to a different form. Agency Budget Please enter your estimated total agency budget for the fiscal years FY26 and FY27. This should reflect the overall projected budget for your agency during this granting cycle. Agency Budget FY26 FY27 Agency Budget 4,300,000.00 4,800,000.00 Funding Requests Please enter your FY26 funding request for each funding entity. The amount will automatically populate the FY27 column, as all funders in this application roll over the annual request to duplicate in the following year. The percentage of the total budget will auto-populate for each fiscal year and funder. You can find funding eligibility details and contact information for each funding entity by hovering over the funder name below. FY26 Funding Request FY26 % of Total Budget FY27 Funding Request FY27 % of Total Budget United Way JWC 150,000.00 3.49 150,000.00 3.13 Johnson County 150,000.00 3.49 150,000.00 3.13 City of Iowa City 150,000.00 3.49 150,000.00 3.13 10/16/2024 9:26 AM CST © 2024 e-CImpact page 17 of 32 FY26 Funding Request FY26 % of Total Budget FY27 Funding Request FY27 % of Total Budget City of Coralville 5,000.00 0.12 5,000.00 0.10 City of North Liberty 5,000.00 0.12 5,000.00 0.10 10/16/2024 9:26 AM CST © 2024 e-CImpact page 18 of 32 Form B1: FY26-FY27 Agency DemographicsThe Neighborhood Centers of Johnson County Form B1: FY26-FY27 Agency Demographics Provide the total number of unique clients your agency served during the last fiscal year and a projected number you plan to serve during the current fiscal year. Please Note - you cannot submit the form with any blanks. If your agency does not have a client count for any of the categories, please enter "0" in that box. You may report the total number of unknown clients in the "Unknown" section for each demographic category. If your organization does not collect information for one or more of the categories, please include the total number of individuals served in the "Unknown" category and provide an explanation in Form B2: FY26-FY27 Agency Demographic - Additional Information for the corresponding category. Gender Please provide the unique number of individuals served who self-identified within each of the gender categories listed below. If your organization does not collect gender information, please report the total number of individuals served in the "Unknown" category and provide an explanation in Form B2: FY26-FY27 Agency Demographic - Additional Information. FY24 Projected FY25 Male 568 600 Female 758 815 Non-binary 2 5 Unknown Gender 0 1,000 Total 1,328 2,420 Race Please provide the unique number of individuals served who self-identified within each of the racial categories listed below. If your organization does not collect racial information, please report the total number of individuals served in the "Unknown" category and provide an explanation in Form B2: FY26-FY27 Agency Demographic - Additional Information. FY24 Projected FY25 Asian 0 2 African American 708 775 10/16/2024 9:26 AM CST © 2024 e-CImpact page 19 of 32 FY24 Projected FY25 American Indian or Alaska Native 0 0 Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander 0 0 White 588 595 Multiple Races 31 40 Other Racial Identity 1 8 Unknown Racial Identity 0 1,000 Total 1,328 2,420 Ethnicity Please provide the unique number of individuals served who self-identified within each of the ethnicity categories listed below. If your organization does not collect ethnicity information, please report the total number of individuals served in the "Unknown" category and provide an explanation in Form B2: FY26-FY27 Agency Demographic - Additional Information. FY24 Projected FY25 Hispanic, Latino, or Spanish Origin 307 360 Not of Hispanic, Latino, or Spanish Origin 1,021 1,060 Unknown Ethnicity 0 1,000 Total 1,328 2,420 Age Please provide the unique number of individuals served who self-identified within each of the age categories listed below. If your organization does not collect age information, please report the total number of individuals served in the "Unknown" category and provide an explanation in Form B2: FY26-FY27 Agency Demographic - Additional Information. FY24 Projected FY25 0-5 277 301 6-17 493 535 18-29 69 75 10/16/2024 9:26 AM CST © 2024 e-CImpact page 20 of 32 FY24 Projected FY25 30-61 476 500 62-74 12 8 75+ Years 1 1 Unknown Age 0 1,000 Total 1,328 2,420 Geographic Location Please provide the unique number of individuals served who reside within each of the geographic locations listed below. If your organization does not collect information on place of residence, please report the total number of individuals served in the "Unknown" category and provide an explanation in Form B2: FY26-FY27 Agency Demographic - Additional Information. NOTE: For Johnson County data, please exclude individuals from the following municipalities: Iowa City, Coralville, and North Liberty. To ensure unduplicated data, only include individuals from other Johnson County municipalities and rural areas. For Washington County, you may provide data at the whole county level. FY24 Projected FY25 Johnson County (Combined, Unduplicated) 27 30 Iowa City 1,101 1,165 Coralville 89 95 North Liberty 111 130 Washington County 0 0 Unknown Geographic Location 0 1,000 Total 1,328 2,420 10/16/2024 9:26 AM CST © 2024 e-CImpact page 21 of 32 Form B2: FY26-FY27 Agency Demographics - Additional InformationThe Neighborhood Centers of Johnson County Form B2: FY26-FY27 Agency Demographics - Additional Information If you reported individuals served in the unknown category for any of the demographic categories in Form B1: FY26-FY27 Agency Demographics, please provide additional context in the corresponding section below. This may include an explanation of why your agency does not collect this information, or if there are other categories not listed in the provided options. If you did not report individuals served in the unknown category for any of the demographic categories, please indicate 'NA" in the sections below. You may save your work at any time by clicking on the "Save My Work" link/icon at the bottom or top of the page. When you have completed all questions on the form, select the "Save My Work and Mark as Completed" link/icon at the bottom or top of this page. You may also SWITCH between forms in this application by using the SWITCH FORMS feature in the upper right corner. When switching forms, any updates to the existing form will automatically be saved. Additional Information for Unknown Catergories 1. UNKNOWN GENDER If you reported any individuals in the unknown gender category, please provide additional context. Neighborhood Centers hosts multiple community events that are open to the public, and we do not track attendee information for these events. Additionally, every day at our centers, we serve a variety of visitors who seek advice, use our computers, access printing and faxing services, or request referrals—either in person or via phone. Our Family Support workers also assist individuals not on their caseloads and often provide translation services. These interactions are not tracked in our system, 2. UNKNOWN RACE If you reported any individuals in the unknown race category, please provide additional context. Neighborhood Centers hosts multiple community events that are open to the public, and we do not track attendee information for these events. Additionally, every day at our centers, we serve a variety of visitors who seek advice, use our computers, access printing and faxing services, or request referrals—either in person or via phone. Our Family Support workers also assist individuals not on their caseloads and often provide translation services. These interactions are not tracked in our system, 10/16/2024 9:26 AM CST © 2024 e-CImpact page 22 of 32 3. UNKNOWN ETHNICITY If you reported any individuals in the unknown ethnicity category, please provide additional context. Neighborhood Centers hosts multiple community events that are open to the public, and we do not track attendee information for these events. Additionally, every day at our centers, we serve a variety of visitors who seek advice, use our computers, access printing and faxing services, or request referrals—either in person or via phone. Our Family Support workers also assist individuals not on their caseloads and often provide translation services. These interactions are not tracked in our system, 4. UNKNOWN AGE: If you reported any individuals in the unknown age category, please provide additional context. Neighborhood Centers hosts multiple community events that are open to the public, and we do not track attendee information for these events. Additionally, every day at our centers, we serve a variety of visitors who seek advice, use our computers, access printing and faxing services, or request referrals—either in person or via phone. Our Family Support workers also assist individuals not on their caseloads and often provide translation services. These interactions are not tracked in our system, 5. UNKNOWN AREA MEDIAN INCOME If you reported any individuals in the unknown area median income category, please provide additional context. Neighborhood Centers hosts multiple community events that are open to the public, and we do not track attendee information for these events. Additionally, every day at our centers, we serve a variety of visitors who seek advice, use our computers, access printing and faxing services, or request referrals—either in person or via phone. Our Family Support workers also assist individuals not on their caseloads and often provide translation services. These interactions are not tracked in our system, 6. UNKNOWN GEOGRAPHIC LOCATION If you reported any individuals in the unknown geographic location category, please provide additional context. Neighborhood Centers hosts multiple community events that are open to the public, and we do not track attendee information for these events. Additionally, every day at our centers, we serve a variety of visitors who seek advice, use our computers, access printing and faxing services, or request referrals—either in person or via phone. Our Family Support workers also assist individuals not on their caseloads and often provide translation services. These interactions are not tracked in our system, 10/16/2024 9:26 AM CST © 2024 e-CImpact page 23 of 32 Form C: FY26-FY27 Agency BudgetThe Neighborhood Centers of Johnson County FY26-FY27 Form C: FY26-FY27 Agency Budget Please complete all information. If there is an item that does not apply to your budget or the value is zero, please enter a "0" in that box. Do not leave an item blank. Some columns have auto-calculation but will not auto-calculate until the information is saved. Please save information often to activate the calculated fields. For items that require itemization, click the link to enter specific information in the itemization form. Budget Type Please enter a corresponding number to indicate your Budget type: 1 = Agency Level 2 = County Specific Budget Type 1.00 Revenues This includes all funding that your agency receives throughout the fiscal year for your operating expenses and planned restricted expenses. FY23 FY24 FY25 United Way of Johnson and Washington Counties Allocation 127,500.00 125,333.00 125,333.00 United Way of Johnson and Washington Counties Designations 1,970.77 1,079.60 1,200.00 Johnson County - Block Grant Funding 93,940.00 91,281.00 91,281.00 Johnson County Funding - Other Funding 526,521.39 487,373.46 561,812.84 City of Iowa City - Aid to Agencies Funding 58,759.00 67,000.00 63,485.00 City of Iowa City - Other Funding 95,106.13 3,000.00 109,065.00 City of Coralville Funding 1,628.00 0.00 0.00 City of North Liberty Funding 0.00 0.00 0.00 10/16/2024 9:26 AM CST © 2024 e-CImpact page 24 of 32 FY23 FY24 FY25 Community Foundation of Johnson County Funding 0.00 0.00 0.00 East Central Mental Health Region 0.00 0.00 0.00 Grants - Federal, State, Foundation 777,337.45 741,741.22 738,708.00 Fees for Services 1,085,378.57 1,203,708.04 1,204,100.00 Fundraising/Contributions/D onations 126,633.69 55,842.95 75,000.00 Interest and Investment Income 14,326.00 67,557.46 72,500.00 Annual Endowment Draw 0.00 0.00 0.00 Reserve or Carryover Funds 0.00 0.00 0.00 Other Revenue - Please Specify Source in Attachments 407,709.00 718,118.59 2,000,000.00 Total 3,316,810.00 3,562,035.32 5,042,484.84 Expenses FY23 FY24 Projected FY25 Personnel Expenses - Salaries & Benefits 2,613,100.00 2,913,273.59 3,100,000.00 All Other Operational Expenses 558,461.00 529,463.07 545,000.00 Other - Please Specify in Attachments 0.00 0.00 0.00 Total 3,171,561.00 3,442,736.66 3,645,000.00 Restricted Funds This category includes funds recorded in the revenues section that is restricted and was not paid out and included in the expense section. This may also involve funds set aside to meet required operating reserve thresholds or other designated reserve purposes. Please itemize all such restricted funds here. FY23 FY24 FY25 10/16/2024 9:26 AM CST © 2024 e-CImpact page 25 of 32 Restricted Funds - Please Itemize 407,709.35 707,548.86 2,000,000.00 ARPA Building Funds 2,000,000.00 DHHS Stabilization Funds 407,709.35 707,548.86 Total 407,709.35 707,548.86 2,000,000.00 Operational Budget FY23 FY24 FY25 Total Revenue 3,316,810.00 3,562,035.32 5,042,484.84 Total Expenses 3,171,561.00 3,442,736.66 3,645,000.00 Restricted Funds 407,709.35 707,548.86 2,000,000.00 Surplus/Deficit -262,460.35 -588,250.20 -602,515.16 Reserve Funds Enter all reserve balances below. If you have additional reserves not listed, please enter them in the 'Other Reserve' section and specify their purpose in the Attachments. FY23 FY24 FY25 Operating Reserve Balance 0.00 0.00 0.00 Total 0.00 0.00 0.00 In-Kind Support FY23 FY24 FY25 Service and Volunteer Hours 7,942.00 8,432.96 13,400.32 Material Goods 20,000.00 22,000.00 22,000.00 Space, Utilities, etc.36,000.00 28,000.00 28,000.00 Other 15,000.00 15,000.00 15,000.00 Total 78,942.00 73,432.96 78,400.32 10/16/2024 9:26 AM CST © 2024 e-CImpact page 26 of 32 Form D: FY26-FY27 Agency Salaries & BenefitsThe Neighborhood Centers of Johnson County Form D: FY26-FY27 Agency Salaries & Benefits Please provide information for the employees and volunteers in your organization. If a position is not listed, please add it in the "Other" section. You will need to add each position individually in the "Other" category. Average Salary: Enter the average salary for all staff in this position. Please note, this should not be the total salaries paid for all staff in this position. If only one staff member holds this position, enter that individual’s salary. Paid Leave, Health Insurance, Retirement: If the position offers any of these benefits, place a "1" in the corresponding column for each benefit received. FTE (Last Year, This Year, Next Year): Indicate the number of employees in this position for the periods noted. For part-time positions, you can use fractions (e.g., 0.25, 0.5) as needed. Employees Position Average Salary Paid Leave Health Insuranc e Retireme nt Plan FTE (Last Year) FTE (This Year) FTE (Next Year) Executive Director / President / CEO 113,526. 00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 Director of Operations /COO 92,310.0 0 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 Director of Development 75,000.0 0 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 Business Manager/CFO 67,000.0 0 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 Program Director / Manager 46,271.2 0 1.00 1.00 1.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 Program/Services Coordinator 40,310.0 0 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 Direct Services Worker 20,480.0 0 1.00 1.00 1.00 70.85 65.00 65.00 Administrative/Clerical staff 45,364.0 0 1.00 1.00 1.00 2.25 2.25 2.25 Other 296,642. 60 5 5 5 15.50 15.50 15 Total 796,903. 80 13 13 13 98.60 92.75 92.25 10/16/2024 9:26 AM CST © 2024 e-CImpact page 27 of 32 Volunteers Please indicate the number of volunteers active with your Agency. Last Year This Year Volunteers 292 464 10/16/2024 9:26 AM CST © 2024 e-CImpact page 28 of 32 Services Provided:Early Childcare Services Provided:Youth activities and programming The Neighborhood Centers of Johnson County - Neighborhood Centers - FY26-FY27 Outcomes. - Form E: FY26-FY27 Performance Measures and OutcomesThe Neighborhood Centers of Johnson County - Neighborhood Centers - FY26-FY27 Outcomes. Form E: FY26-FY27 Performance Measures and Outcomes Reporting Metrics: Common Indicators, Agency-Identified Indicators, and Service Delivery Narrative Applicants are required to report on the common outcomes associated with each service for which funding is requested. In addition to the common outcomes, you may also report metrics your agency has used in the past that are no longer part of the common list or select your own outcome metrics that best represent the services you provide. Examples might include: the number of individuals receiving nutrition education, the number of individuals receiving case management services, or the number of attendees at a youth summit. In the final section, you may provide any additional information you would like reviewers to know about your common outcomes or agency- identified outcomes. You will also submit a narrative about your previous service delivery, including any unexpected outcomes, successes, or challenges experienced over the past year. Common Provided Outcome Number of Services Provided Number of Services Provided FY25 Projected # of early childcare slots created or maintained Number of Services Provided 96 Number of Individuals Number of Individuals Served Measurement FY25 Projected # of unique children involved in early learning programs Number of Individuals Served 106 Number of Services Provided Number of Services Provided FY25 Projected # of enriching out-of-school services/sessions provided Number of Services Provided 1,239 Number of Individuals Number of Individuals Served Measurement FY25 Projected # of students receiving enriching out- of-school programming Number of Individuals Served 318 10/16/2024 9:26 AM CST © 2024 e-CImpact page 29 of 32 Services Provided:Financial literacy and credit repair Services Provided:Services for immigrants and refugees Outcome Statement: Healthy Community: Nutrition and Food Security By the end of the program year, 100% of children enrolled in our early childhood and afterschool programs will receive daily nutritious meals, and we will partner to serve summer lunches to children in our Pheasant Ridge community, ensuring consistent access to healthy food year-round. Number of meals provided: 8,848 Number of individuals served: 595 Number of Services Provided Number of Services Provided FY25 Projected # of financial literacy education sessions provided Number of Services Provided 14 Number of Individuals Number of Individuals Served Measurement FY25 Projected # of individuals involved in financial literacy education Number of Individuals Served 95 Number of Services Provided Number of Services Provided FY25 Projected # of support services/sessions provided to individuals with immigrant or refugee status Number of Services Provided 4,643 Number of Individuals Number of Individuals Served Measurement FY25 Projected # of individuals with immigrant or refugee status served Number of Individuals Served 653 Agency Identified Outcome Agency Identified Outcome Explanation 10/16/2024 9:26 AM CST © 2024 e-CImpact page 30 of 32 Supplemental Information on Outcomes: Neighborhood Centers is committed to addressing the critical needs of families by offering comprehensive early childhood education, family support, and community engagement services. Our outcomes are measured through key metrics like home visits, parent group participation, and community engagement events. These metrics ensure that our programs are not only meeting immediate needs but also fostering long-term resilience and stability in families. We continuously assess our service delivery to adapt to the evolving needs of the communities we serve, and we plan to expand our early childhood capacity by 50% by 2028 to address the childcare shortage in our region. Please explain agency identified metrics. What is being measured and how is each metric an indicator of the expected outcome. How does the indicator show impact to those you serve? We measure the number of meals served across three areas: lunches provided through our summer Lunch Bunch program (in partnership with St. Andrew’s), daily meals (breakfast, lunch, snack) served in our early childhood classrooms, and snacks provided in our afterschool programs. These metrics ensure children receive nutritious food, reducing food insecurity, promoting healthy development, and supporting focus and engagement throughout the day. Previous Service Delivery Narrative + Supplemental Information on Outcomes Indicator Narrative Question: Pervious Service Delivery Previous Service Delivery: Please provide a specific outcome/performance measure your organization achieved in the last grant cycle. How are people/conditions better because of the services you provided? Were there any unanticipated outcomes you’d like to share? 10/16/2024 9:26 AM CST © 2024 e-CImpact page 31 of 32 Family Support Program Our Family Support Program is a lifeline for low-income families with children from prenatal to pre-K, offering vital resources through home visits and parent group meetings. With a diverse, multilingual team, now trained as doulas, we aim to improve maternal and infant health outcomes by providing emotional, physical, and healthcare support during pregnancy and childbirth. 2,032 home visits with 103 families 179 children supported 35 parent education groups held Community Engagement Community is at the heart of everything we do. Our events like National Night Out and the Back-to- School Bash connect hundreds of participants, demonstrating the power of collaboration and partnerships in uplifting families and promoting resilience. 500+ celebrated NCJC 50th Fest (Fall 2023) 350+ attendees at National Night Out 700+ backpacks distributed 200+ volunteers engaged Addressing the Childcare Crisis As Iowa faces a childcare shortage, Neighborhood Centers provides high-quality early childhood education through highly-trained staff. By 2028, we aim to expand our capacity by 50%, ensuring more children can access the care they need while maintaining our top-tier standards. Achieved statewide highest rating for IQ4K Only 6% of centers nationwide earn NAEYC Accreditation, signifying excellence in early childhood education. 10/16/2024 9:26 AM CST © 2024 e-CImpact page 32 of 32