Community Investment: 2018 Grant Impact

VCF's responsive grant distributions are announced each year, providing details about the receiving organization, the grant amount, and its purpose. But what happens after VCF awards a grant to a nonprofit? These grants can range from a single-year distribution to a multi-year award and can provide operating support, assistance with capacity building efforts, or a particular project. As part of VCF's terms of grant, the receiving organization is required to report on outcomes and data showing the impact of that funding - something we would like to start sharing with you

The WorkPlace
With a single-year general operating support grant awarded in 2016, The WorkPlace was able to increase awareness of the Ansonia and Derby American Job Centers. Through multi-channel marketing efforts, The WorkPlace reached Valley residents to encourage participation in their programs. A three-part community forum series was held at the American Job Centers to acclimate area residents with the center and provide more information on services offered in collaboration with Career Resources, CT Dept. of Labor, TEAM, Valley Regional Adult Education, Dept. of Rehabilitation Services, Bureau of Education, Services for the Blind, and the Greater Valley Chamber of Commerce.

Literacy Volunteers
With a three-year general operating support grant awarded in 2014, Literacy Volunteers of Greater New Haven provided programs for adults from more than 75 countries, and was able to serve 54% more students as a result of this funding. Literacy Volunteers increased the number of adult students to nearly 1,200 during 2016-2017, which represents a 23% increase since 2014. A total of 14 new tutoring sites were added during years 2-3 of this grant. As a result of these programs and services, 60% of Valley students achieved a 4-point or higher gain in reading levels. A 4-point gain is roughly equivalent to an increase of one grade level in reading, which is considered significant by the CT State Dept. of Education.

New Haven Legal
With a two-year project grant awarded in 2015, the New Haven Legal Assistance Association held weekly legal clinics targeting families of children in the Head Start program. A total of 36 families were served during year one and 49 in year two. In addition to offering one-on-one consultation, the staff conducted a Know-Your-Rights workshop on Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for 30 people. New Haven Legal Assistance Association doubled its office hours in year two, which allowed staff to better spend time with families in need and accommodate walk-ins. Over the term of this grant, parents became more familiar with the New Haven Legal Assistance Association staff and the positive experiences during year one fostered referrals by fellow parents, which contributed to a 25% increase in year two. This program has established a greater physical presence in the Valley, which has proven to be critical as the legal needs for low-income people in the region continue to grow.