Item:
Title
Update on Nonprofit Request for Proposals to Support Youth Enrichment Programming (20min)
Body
Date of BOCC Meeting: September 28, 2026
Request for Board Action:
Agenda Text
The Board is asked to receive an update on the Request for Proposals (RFP) process for youth programming grants. Durham County is home to more than 73,000 youth who are essential to the community's well-being, resilience, and growth. The County has a longstanding commitment to evidence-based, holistic services for youth ages 4 to 24. Across multiple departments, the County leads or supports more than 15 programs focused on education, workforce development, violence reduction, crime prevention, enrichment, and social-emotional and mental health.
This grant program will draw on the expertise, experience, and trusted relationships of community organizations to help meet those challenges and strengthen outcomes for youth across Durham. Grants will support projects that provide social-emotional and mental health services, enrichment and recreational activities, and academic support.
The FY 2026-27 budget appropriated $500,000 for the grant program, which will fund approximately 10 to 12 one-year grants. The RFP will open on October 16, 2026, and applications are due by November 20, 2026.
Alignment with Strategic Plan: This item aligns with Strategic Plan Goal - Empowered Community
Resource Persons: Claudia Hager, County Manager; John Keefer, Director of Organizational Effectiveness; Julia Hedelman, Senior Management Analyst
County Manager’s Recommendation: The County Manager recommends that the Board receive the update on the RFP process. The RFP will launch on October 16, 2026, with applications due no later than November 20, 2026.
Signature
County Manager: ____________________________