Title
2016 Walmart Foundation Volunteerism Always Pays (VAP) Grant (B)
This item requests approval for the Department of Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs (PRCA) to accept, if awarded, a grant from the Walmart Foundation Volunteerism Always Pays (VAP) Grant for up to $3,000 to support the Gainesville Pop Warner Cheer Program.
Explanation
The Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs Department (PRCA) have three parent coaches from the PRCA Gainesville Pop Warner program that are employed at Walmart. The parent coaches have applied for the Volunteerism Always Pays (VAP) Grant funds (on behalf of the Department) in the amount of $1,000 each from the Walmart Foundation. The funds, if received will support the Gainesville Pop Warner Cheer Program. If their applications are successful, these funds would be used by PRCA staff to enhance the program by providing much needed uniforms and supplies to the girls that participate in the Pop Warner Cheer Program. Many parents struggle financially with the cost of registration and the cheerleading uniforms and supplies associated with the program. Since these funds are to be used by a municipal agency the City must provide a letter signed by the City Manager, explaining the City is a non-profit entity authorized to receive the grant funds.
In the past two years the Gainesville Pop Warner Cheer Program has successfully recruited over sixty (60) girls to participate in the cheer program. In addition to cheerleading and dance, the girls learn scholastic achievement and personal development skills. In 2014 and 2015 respectively, the Gainesville Pop Warner Cheer Team competed and won awards in the Southeast Regional Championships held in Orlando, FL. On both occasions the City Commission issued a proclamation in honor of the girls and the coaches hard work and dedication.
Fiscal Note
There is no fiscal impact to this grant.
Recommendation
The City Commission: 1) approve the request to accept the grant if awarded fr...
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