TO: Mayor and City Council
FROM: Beth Beatty, City Manager
SUBJECT:
title
Resolution Approving CASA of River Valley (CASA) - Attorney Guardian Ad Litem for inclusion in drafted Action Plan as Program Year 2024 CDBG Activity.
end
BACKGROUND:
CASA of River Valley (CASA) has applied for $27,000.00 in CDBG funds to support their Attorney Guardian Ad Litem (GAL) Project. This Public Service activity would be used to leverage an additional $133,000.00 of the organization's supplemental funding, as a source to continue their existing program (currently and partially funded by CDBG).
With 30 years of GAL experience, this would be CASA's 2nd year of administering city funded CDBG activities. CASA hopes to continue providing child advocacy services to abused and neglected minors whose families are involved in active criminal cases. These advocates work directly with the courts, families, health service providers, and the children themselves to determine the best permanent living options and available resources.
This application fits into the eligible activities of CDBG, as well as demonstrates consistency to the 2020-2024 Consolidated Plan high priority needs assessment for non-housing Community Development with a Citywide target area. The committee for Diversity and Community Relations meeting will be held on June 28th at 4:00pm, prior to the Council meeting July 2nd, 2024.
CONCLUSION:
This activity titled Attorney Guardian Ad Litem Project will provide child advocacy services to a projected 52 abused and neglected children within City of Joliet.
RECOMMENDATION:
recommendation
The Administration recommends - with the Diversity and Community Relations Committee support - the approval of the application and subsequent Resolution, for CASA of River Valley (CASA) not to exceed $27,000.00 as drafted into the PY24 Annual Action Plan.
end