Boone County News Release

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Boone County Children's Services Board Awards Contracts to Six Grassroots Organizations

COLUMBIA, Mo. (July 11, 2024) – The Boone County Children’s Services Board (BCCSB) is thrilled to announce that six grassroots organizations have been awarded contracts through the Grassroots Funding Opportunity. This initiative, utilizing an innovative and unprecedented funding structure, aims to empower community-based nonprofits to expand their reach and effectiveness in serving children, youth, and families in Boone County.

The organizations selected for this funding include Destiny of H.O.P.E., Columbia Supreme, Grade A Plus, Incorporated, The Center Project, Dream Tree Academy 573, and Do Something Right Now. The total contracted amount for the first six months is $359,194.50. The first full year of funding, pending contract renewal, will commence on January 1, 2025, with a total allocation of $623,116.00.

"The BCCSB is proud to support these outstanding grassroots organizations that are deeply rooted in our community. Their work is vital to addressing the unique needs of Boone County’s children, youth, and families," said Leigh Spence, Chair of the Boone County Children's Services Board. "This funding opportunity is a testament to our commitment to fostering collaboration and innovation at the community level."

The selected organizations have demonstrated a strong commitment to their communities, with staff and leadership that reflect the diverse backgrounds of the families they serve. The funding will be utilized to:

• Expand Programming: Enhance and broaden the scope of services offered to better meet the needs of the community.
• Provide Case Management: Offer comprehensive support to families, ensuring they have access to the resources and services they need.
• Enhance Youth Out-of-School Programming: Develop and implement programs that engage and support youth outside of regular school hours.
• Build Organizational Capacity: Strengthen the internal structures and capabilities of each organization to ensure sustainable and effective service delivery.

For more information about the Grassroots Funding Opportunity or the organizations that have been awarded contracts, please contact the Boone County Community Services Department by calling (573) 886-4298 or emailing communityservices@boonecountymo.org.

About Boone County Community Services Department

The mission of Boone County Community Services Department (BCCSD) is to support the greatest possible level of independence and self-sufficiency of Boone County residents by promoting their physical, mental and social well-being to cultivate a safe and healthy community. The BCCSD oversees funding distributed from the Boone County Children’s Services Fund and Domestic Violence Services funding.

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