Equitable Community Grant Award RecommendationCity of Dubuque
City Council
CONSENT ITEMS # 15.
Copyrighted
March 3, 2025
ITEM TITLE: Equitable Community Grant Award Recommendation
SUMMARY: City Manager recommending City Council approval of the
Equitable Community Grant disbursement in the amount of
$5,000 each to Afriwell Hub, Inc. and Dubuque Visiting Nurse
Association.
RESOLUTION Awarding Equitable Community Grant To
Dubuque Visiting Nurse Association
RESOLUTION Awarding Equitable Community Grant To
Afriwell Hub, Inc
SUGGUESTED Receive and File; Adopt Resolution(s)
DISPOSITION:
ATTACHMENTS:
1. MVM Memo
2. EQ Comm Grant Memo FY25
3. EQ Comm Grant Resolution VNA
4. EQ Comm Grant Resolution Afriwell
5. Dubuque Equitable Community Grant Guidelines and Evaluation Rubric
Page 317 of 629
THE CITY OF
DUB E-E
Masterpiece on the Mississippi
TO: The Honorable Mayor and City Council Members
FROM: Michael C. Van Milligen, City Manager
SUBJECT: Equitable Community Grant Award Recommendation
DATE: February 25, 2025
Dubuque
All -America Ciq
IIIr
II
2007.2012.2013
2017*2019
Chief of Equity and Human Rights Dr. Gisella Aitken-Shadle is recommending City
Council approval of the Equitable Community Grant disbursement in the amount of
$5,000 each to Afriwell Hub, Inc. and Dubuque Visiting Nurse Association.
In 2022, the City Council approved the Equitable Community Grant program to provide
funding to assist non -profits, businesses, clubs, organizations, and groups of passionate
residents in implementing their ideas to make Dubuque a more equitable place and to
support community leadership in alignment with the City of Dubuque's Five -Year Goals.
The first grant was awarded in 2023 to Tri Phoenix Group in support of the Black
Business Event and Expo. The grant helped the organization provide a platform for
Black -owned businesses to showcase their products and services, network with other
entrepreneurs and potential customers, and gain visibility and exposure within the
community. In 2024, one $5,000 grant was awarded to the Red Basket Project to aid in
their mission to end period poverty. The other $5,000 grant was awarded to the Hills
and Dales Childcare Center to aid in their establishment of a "medical childcare
program" to more effectively support area children with disabilities and medical needs.
$10,000 was allocated for grant disbursement in FY25 for two applicants to receive
$5,000 each. Twenty (20) applications were received. A panel comprised of three (3)
staff and two (2) commissioners submitted their individual scores and comments.
I concur with the recommendation and respectfully request Mayor and City Council
approval.
/'�,,a)wa k�a.
Mic ael C. Van Milligen
►VA140►TAWA
Attachment
cc: Crenna Brumwell, City Attorney
Cori Burbach, Assistant City Manager
Dr. Gisella Aitken-Shadle, Chief Equity and Human Rights
Page 318 of 629
THE CM OF
DUB E
EQUITY & HUMAN RIGHTS
TO: Michael Van Milligen, City Manager
FROM: Dr. Gisella Aitken-Shadle, Chief of Equity and Human Rights
SUBJECT: Equitable Community Grant Award Recommendation
DATE: February 18, 2025
Dubuque
2011*2019
INTRODUCTION
The purpose of this memo is to present the recommendations of the Equity and Human Rights
Department on the Equitable Community Grant Award applications.
BACKGROUND
In 2022, the City Council approved the Equitable Community Grant program to provide funding
to assist non -profits, businesses, clubs, organizations, and groups of passionate residents in
implementing their ideas to make Dubuque a more equitable place and to support community
leadership in alignment with the City of Dubuque's Five -Year Goals.
The first grant was awarded in 2023 to Tri Phoenix Group in support of the Black Business Event
and Expo. The grant helped the organization provide a platform for Black -owned businesses to
showcase their products and services, network with other entrepreneurs and potential
customers, and gain visibility and exposure within the community. In 2024, one $5,000 grant
was awarded to the Red Basket Project to aid in their mission to end period poverty. The other
$5,000 grant was awarded to the Hills and Dales Childcare Center to aid in their establishment
of a "medical childcare program" to more effectively support area children with disabilities and
medical needs.
$10,000 was allocated for grant disbursement in FY25 for two applicants to receive $5,000 each.
Twenty (20) applications were received. A panel comprised of three (3) staff and two (2)
commissioners submitted their individual scores and comments.
DISCUSSION
The following applications were received:
• TSG (Together Standing N Growing) Daycare
• Oh Happy Play
• Dubuque Area Library Information Consortium (DALINC)
Page 319 of 629
• Afriwell Hub, inc
• Paula Kaufman
• Myson's Tacos & Burritos
• Foutain Of Youth Program
• The Goose
• Dubuque Esports League
• Dubuque Visiting Nurse Association
• Tri-State Women Warriors
• Positive Productions Plus LLC
• Bluff Strokes Art Center
• La'shamy R. Davis
• Multicultural Family Center
• Voices Productions
• Dr. Alice Oleson
• Julien Dubuque International Film Festival
• Jessica Pfohl Paisley
• 011iewood
The following applicants are recommended for funding:
• Afriwell Hub, inc
• Dubuque Visiting Nurse Association
BUDGET IMPACT
$10,000 was allocated for grant disbursement in the FY25 budget under account number 64130.
REQUESTED ACTION
I respectfully recommend the City Council approve the recommendations of the Equity and
Human Rights Department regarding the funding of the Equitable Community Grant.
Attachment
Dubuque Equitable Community Grant guidelines and Evaluation Rubric 2025
Page 320 of 629
Prepared by Gisella Aitken-Shadle Equity and Human Rights 1157 Central Ave., Dubuque IA 52001 (563)-589-4190
Return to Adrienne N. Breitfelder, City Clerk, 50 W. 1V St., Dubuque, IA 52001, (563) 589-4100
RESOLUTION NO.76-25
AWARDING EQUITABLE COMMUNITY GRANT TO DUBUQUE VISITING NURSE
ASSOCIATION
WHEREAS, the City Council adopts goals on an annual basis; and
WHEREAS, the City Council in 2022 established a five year goal of "Partnership
for a Better Dubuque: Building Our Community that is Viable, Livable, and Equitable;"
and
WHEREAS, the City Council stated in their vision statement that "Dubuque 2038
is a sustainable and resilient city, an inclusive and equitable community where ALL are
welcome;" and
WHEREAS, the City Council mission statement that Dubuque city government's
mission is to "deliver excellent municipal services that support urban living; contribute
to an equitable, sustainable city; plan for the community's future; and facilitate access
to critical human
services;" and
WHEREAS, the Equitable Community Grant meets the needs of the Dubuque's
vision for an equitable community; and
WHEREAS, efforts which address an Equitable Dubuque principle and offer
community engagement activity or community education activity benefit the entirety of the
community and the specifically adopted goals of the City Council; and
WHEREAS, the grant recipient shall use grant funds to provide educational
material, and purchase portable Pack `n Play cribs and sleep sacks; and
WHEREAS, the grant recipient shall work with a diverse population of
Marshallese and Hispanic families to improve safe sleep and play for infants with the
intention of reducing the risk of SIDS.; and
WHEREAS, the City Council believes it is in the best interest of the City of
Dubuque to strive for an equitable community for all residents.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
DUBUQUE, IOWA:
Section 1. The city Council hereby awards an Equitable Community Grant to
DUBUQUE VISITING NURSE ASSOCIATION.
Section 2. The City Manager or his designee shall enter into a grant agreement
with DUBUQUE VISITING NURSE ASSOCIATION and shall ensure compliance with the
grant agreement pursuant to Iowa Code and the grant award requirements.
Passed, approved, and adopted this V day of March 2025.
?!fam. Cavanagh, Mayor
Attest:
Adrienne N. Breitfelder; City Clerk
Prepared by Gisella Aitken-Shadle Equity and Human Rights 1157 Central Ave. Dubuque IA 52001 (563)-589-4190
Return to Adrienne N. Breitfelder, City Clerk, 50 W. 1311 St., Dubuque, IA 52001, (563) 589-4100
RESOLUTION NO. 77-25
AWARDING EQUITABLE COMMUNITY GRANT TO AFRIWELL HUB, INC
WHEREAS, the City Council adopts goals on an annual basis; and
WHEREAS, the City Council in 2022 established a five year goal of "Partnership
for a Better Dubuque: Building Our Community that is Viable, Livable, and Equitable;"
and
WHEREAS, the City Council stated in their vision statement that "Dubuque 2038
is a sustainable and resilient city, an inclusive and equitable community where ALL are
welcome;" and
WHEREAS, the City Council mission statement that Dubuque city government's
mission is to "deliver excellent municipal services that support urban living; contribute
to an equitable, sustainable city; plan for the community's future; and facilitate access
to critical human
services;" and
WHEREAS, the Equitable Community Grant meets the needs of the Dubuque's
vision for an equitable community; and
WHEREAS, efforts which address an Equitable Dubuque principle and offer
community engagement activity or community education activity benefit the entirety of the
community and the specifically adopted goals of the City Council; and
WHEREAS, the grant recipient shall use grant funds to fund an African Vibes
event, covering venue setup, artist fees, marketing, and materials for workshops and
exhibits; and
WHEREAS, the grant recipient shall will celebrate African culture through music,
storytelling, dance, and food, fostering inclusivity and cultural exchange while
engaging the Dubuque community in a meaningful cultural experience; and
WHEREAS, the City Council believes it is in the best interest of the City of
Dubuque to strive for an equitable community for all residents.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
DUBUQUE, IOWA:
Section 1. The city Council hereby awards an Equitable Community Grant to
AFRIWELL HUB, INC.
Section 2. The City Manager or his designee shall enter into a grant agreement
with AFRIWELL HUB, INC and shall ensure compliance with the grant agreement
pursuant to Iowa Code and the grant award requirements.
Passed, approved, and adopted this 3rd day of March 2025.
Brad . Cavanagh, Mayor
Attest:
Z 4"7
Adrienne N. Breitfelder, City Clerk
Dubuque Equitable Community Grant
What would you do with $5K to Make Dubuque More Equitable?
The Office of Equity and Human Rights works to create a more inclusive Dubuque community by assuring that everyone
has equitable access to government and community services. Our work supports City staff, elected officials, community
organizations, and members of the public in advancing policies and solutions to reduce, and ultimately eliminate
disparities experienced by our most marginalized residents, allowing them to prosper.
About the Grant:
The goal of the Dubuque Equitable Community Grant is to provide funding to assist non -profits, businesses, clubs,
organizations, and groups of passionate residents in implementing their ideas to make Dubuque a more equitable place
and to support community leadership in alignment with at least one of the City of Dubuque's Five -Year Goals:
• Robust Local Economy
• Vibrant Community
• Livable Neighborhoods and Housing
• Financially Responsible, High -Performance City Organization
• Sustainable Environment
• Partnership for a Better Dubuque
• Diversity Arts, Culture, Parks, and Recreation Experiences and Activities
• Connected Community
Amount of Award
Two $5,000 grants will be awarded to any individual or group of individuals to implement a project that helps to
achieve one or more of the goals listed above and includes a component of community education and/or engagement.
We encourage new groups or individuals to use this funding!
Grant Availability & Application Timeline
Applications will be reviewed by the Equity and Human Rights Department and the Equity and Human Rights
Commission, which then will forward their recommendation to City Council for approval and funding.
Action
Date
Grant application open
December 1, 2024
Grant application deadline
January 31, 2025
Grant award notification deadline
February 17, 2025
Grant Guidelines
1. Grant must align with a City Council Priority and address one of the City of Dubuque's Five -Year Goals.
2. Grant must include an education and/or engagement component.
3. Any marketing, advertising or educational materials produced should acknowledge the City of Dubuque's Office
of Equity and Human Rights.
4. Project must be completed by April 30, 2025.
Page 325 of 629
Eligibility Applicants
Any person or group of individuals located within Dubuque city limits is eligible to apply. "Group" can refer to a
501(c)(3) non- profit or other Dubuque based business, club, organization, neighborhood association, individual, or
group of individuals with a specific mission, governing structure and budget, operating under the incorporated status of
a Dubuque -based fiscal agent.
Prior applications: Applicants who have received funding are not eligible for funding in consecutive years. For
example, an organization that received funding in 2023 is not eligible for funding in 2024 but would be eligible
again to apply in 2025. Additionally, prior grantees' ability to fulfill grant requirements (reporting/
reimbursements/ acknowledgement) will be considered during the scoring process. Groups who were
unsuccessful in previous applications may compete in future rounds with the project originally proposed, or with
new projects.
Ineligible Applicants
For profit organizations or businesses.
Any organization or group based outside of Dubuque city limits.
An organization or group with an outstanding Final Report associated with a prior grant award from the Office of Equity &
Human Rights.
Target Audience
Proposals must target, at a minimum, residents or businesses located in the City of Dubuque. It is acceptable for the target
audience to reach beyond the City of Dubuque, i.e. Dubuque County or tristate area residents. Proposed projects that
target a traditionally unengaged or underserved population are encouraged.
Grant Budget
Grant applications should clearly indicate how the funds will be used. A partial match is required and can be cash or in -
kind.
Reimbursement Method
The preference of the City is to reimburse grant recipients for approved expenses following the completion of the
project. All receipts and a copy of the required performance report must be submitted in order to receive the final
payment. If this financial arrangement is a challenge, contact the Chief of Equity and Human Rights at the City of
Dubuque to discuss other options. Inability to pay for reimbursable grant expenses should not be a barrier to applying,
and we are able to work with recipients to identify alternatives within reason.
Required Measurement of Impact/Success + Reporting
We want to share your successes and lessons learned with others! One requirement of this program is to measure the
impact of your project. Recipients will be required to complete a final report or present the information to the Office of
Equity and Human Rights and its Commission.
In addition to the required reporting metrics, applicants are encouraged to define their own measure of success in the
application. This can be telling your story through numbers, stories, photos, or video. This could mean calculating the
greenhouse gases avoided when individuals biked instead of driving their cars to an event or asking attendees at an
event to complete a pre- and post -survey to identify increased knowledge of a topic. We can help guide you to
determine what information to collect, and final reimbursement will not be made until this information has been
received. Let us know if you would like assistance in measuring your impact.
Page 326 of 629
Additional Grant Information
For more information or questions, please contact the Office of Equity and Human Rights at
humanrgt@cityofdubugue.org or 563-589-4190.
Apply at www.cityofdubugue.org/eguitygrant
Page 327 of 629
Make Dubuque More Equitable Grant Proposal Evaluation Rubric
Project Title:
Scoring Criteria
5 = Very Good, 4 = Good, 3= Acceptable, 2= Poor, 1=
Very Poor, 0 =
Not Answered
"X" replaces "0" for essential criteria. Selecting "X"
disqualifies an
application.
Grant Narrative
Project description and goals are clear and achievable
5
4
3
2
1 0
Project addresses a need in the community
5
4
3
2
1 0
Applicant demonstrates experience and/or clearly explains
5
4
3
2
1 0
capacity to complete the project
Proposed project aligns with a City Council Priority and
5
4
3
2
1 X
Goals
Budget
Timeline and workplan demonstrate planning to produce
5
4
3
2
1 0
proposed deliverables
Budget is clear, reasonable, and detailed
5
4
3
2
1 0
Project match (in -kind or financial) is planned and
5
4
3
2
1 0
explained
City Priorities
Proposed project aligns with a city plan
5
4
3
2
1 0
Proposal's impact on minority or underrepresented persons
5
3
X
Positive Impact=5, No impact=3; Negative impact = X
Community Education/Engagement
Proposed project incorporates community education
5
4
3
2
1 X
and/or community engagement
Impact
Plans to measure impact are planned and explained
5
4
3
2
1 X
Performance measures are meaningful and relevant
5
4
3
2
1 0
Notes:
Page 328 of 629