The purpose of this solicitation is to have a Coordinating Agency responsible to work the Dakota County Community Services and community partners to initiate Community Resource Centers (CRC) in four targeted communities, for a period of not less than two years. The overarching goal is to foster resilience and empower families to thrive by addressing systemic barriers and promoting equity in access to resources and opportunities for children, youth, families and residents at high risk of involvement with child protection and other crisis services, including families of color and low-income families. Though collaborative efforts and community engagement, we envision creating and building a supportive network that strengthens families and uplifts communities across Dakota County. This requires active community collaboration aimed at eliminating racial disparities for residents. This work is grounded in strengthening families using the Five Protective Factors Framework. About-Strengthening-Families.pdf (cssp.org) The Coordinating Agency will also provide fiscal support to the County by distributing a limited amount of funds to community partners, as authorized by Dakota County. The Coordinating Agency is responsible to hire and train one full-time equivalent (FTE) as Program Coordinator(s) for the purpose of collaborating with community organizers and the Community Resource Center (CRC) workgroup to develop the model, timetable, and calendar. Program Coordinator is a lead position for coordinating CRC events and activities, they will: Work in collaboration with community partner agencies to identify and support the vision for their local CRC. Connect families to community resources, fostering partnerships between community members and organizations, Engage with diverse populations to determine resource needs for CRCs events and activities, Assist with the calendar of activities for each CRC site and connect with partner organizations regarding what they can offer and frequency of availability, Identify community needs, develop service strategies, and cultivate relationships to increase involvement and resources, Engage in training offered on the Standards of Quality for Family Strengthening and Support through the National Family Support Network (NFSN | Standards of Quality (nationalfamilysupportnetwork.org) , Ensure events and activities are holistic, culturally appropriate, and accessible, maintaining legal and ethical standards, In collaboration with the CRCs, monitor and evaluate programs/activities for effectiveness and efficiency, and Develop and maintain a Community Advisory Council. The Advisory Council will guide Community Resource Centers on programmatic needs based on community input and feedback.
