CITY OF RANCHO CORDOVA
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Tuesday, April 28, 2026
5:30 PM – Special Meeting/Work Session
David B. Roberts Council Chambers
City Hall
2729 Prospect Park Drive, Rancho Cordova
How to Observe or Listen to the Meeting:
• Online via Zoom: https://cityofranchocordova.zoom.us/j/81630466928 • Webinar ID: 816 3046 6928
• By phone: +1 669 900 6833 or +1 253 215 8782
• Webinar ID: 816 3046 6928
Public Comment
Members of the public who wish to address the City Council may do so in person during the meeting by completing and submitting a Speaker Card to the City Clerk.
Members of the public who wish to provide public comment via email will need to submit comments to [email protected] no later than 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 28, 2026. Written comments received no later than 2:00 p.m. will be distributed to the Council, filed in the record, and will not be read aloud. All comments submitted later than 2:00 p.m. will be distributed to the Council.
If you have questions related to the City Council Meeting, please contact the City Clerk’s Office at (916) 851-8720 before Tuesday, April 28, 2026, at 2:00 p.m.
AGENDA
Rancho Cordova City Council - AGENDA
Special Meeting of Tuesday, April 28, 2026
1. SPECIAL MEETING - CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL
Council Members Linda Budge, Joe Little, Siri Pulipati, David Sander, and Mayor Garrett Gatewood
2. PUBLIC COMMENT
At a special meeting, members of the public wishing to address the Council for any matter on the agenda may do so at the time the matter is discussed. Under the provisions of the California Government Code, the City Council is prohibited from discussing or taking action on any item not on the agenda.
3. SPECIAL MEETING
3.1. Subject: Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Community Enhancement & Investment Fund Grant Applications.
Recommendation: Receive recommendations on the Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Community Enhancement & Investment Fund grant applications and provide direction.
4. ADJOURNMENT
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Special Meetings listed below are subject to change/cancellation without further notice.
Public documents related to items on the open session portion of this agenda, which are distributed to the City Council less than 24 hours prior to the meeting, shall be available for public inspection at the time the documents are distributed to the Council. Documents are available for inspection at the City Clerk's office located in Rancho Cordova City Hall.
The agenda items are accessible on the City’s website at www.cityofranchocordova.org on Thursdays or Fridays prior to the Special City Council Meeting.
UPCOMING MEETINGS
May 4, 2026 4:00 PM Special Meeting/5:30 PM Regular Meeting May 18, 2026 5:30 PM Regular Meeting
May 26, 2026 5:30 PM Special Meeting/Work Session
June 1, 2026 4:00 PM Special Meeting/5:30 PM Regular Meeting June 15, 2026 5:30 PM Regular Meeting
June 23, 2026 5:30 PM Special Meeting/Work Session
July 6, 2026 4:00 PM Special Meeting/5:30 PM Regular Meeting July 28, 2026 5:30 PM Special Meeting/Work Session
If you have any technical questions related to the agenda items, please contact City Hall at (916) 851- 8700.
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need a disability-related modification or accommodation, including auxiliary aids or services, to participate in this meeting, please contact the City Clerk’s Office at (916) 851-8720 at least 48 hours prior to the meeting.
Rancho Cordova City Council - AGENDA
Special Meeting of Tuesday, April 28, 2026
CERTIFICATION OF POSTING OF AGENDA
I, Stacy Leitner, City Clerk for the City of Rancho Cordova, declare that the foregoing agenda for the April 28, 2026, Special Meeting of the Rancho Cordova City Council was posted and available for review on April 23, 2026, at City Hall of the City of Rancho Cordova, 2729 Prospect Park Drive, Rancho Cordova, California, 95670. The agenda is also available on the city website at www.cityofranchocordova.org.
Signed April 23, 2026, at Rancho Cordova, California.
Stacy Leitner, CMC
City Clerk
MEMORANDUM
City Council Staff Report - Page 1 of 2
ITEM 3.1.
DATE: April 28, 2026
TO: Honorable Mayor and Council Members
FROM:
Kim Juran, Administrative Services Director
Randi Kay Stephens, Senior Management Analyst
Lindsay Samples, Management Analyst I
SUBJECT: FISCAL YEAR 2026-2027 COMMUNITY ENHANCEMENT &
INVESTMENT FUND GRANT APPLICATIONS
RECOMMENDATION
Receive recommendations on the Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Community Enhancement & Investment Fund (CEIF) grant applications and provide direction.
RESULT OF RECOMMENDED ACTION
The direction provided by Council at the work session will inform the final grant amounts for the Fiscal Year 2026-27 CEIF grant program.
BACKGROUND
The application period for the Fiscal Year 2026-27 Community Enhancement & Investment Fund opened on February 9, 2026, and closed on March 13, 2026. During this time, the city received 78 applications for consideration (7 have since been withdrawn). A packet of all submissions is provided, including the original applications and, where available, any endorsements provided by stakeholders related to proposed partnerships or facility use with local park and school districts. As staff has seen in years past, the number of applications received reflects continued high demand for CEIF funding across community programs and capital projects. Staff reviewed all applications using the advertised evaluation criteria, eligibility, and prioritization methodology outlined in the Fiscal Year 2026-27 Grant Application Process and Criteria document, which is also available on the Community Enhancement & Investment Fund's website: https://www.cityofranchocordova.org/residents/community-enhancementinvestment-fund/grant-applications.
A total of $4.2 million in Community Enhancement & Investment Fund community grant application requests were submitted for consideration in Fiscal Year 2026-27, which are summarized by grant category as follows:
• Arts, Culture, History, & Entertainment: $380,417
• Youth Services & Programs: $1,803,357
• Community Assistance Programs: $347,711
City Council Staff Report - Page 2 of 2
• Three items will be discussed under a recusal process. Those items total $1,727,497 Staff has recommended $780,500 in funding for the 71 grant requests, leaving an unallocated amount of $117,962. The Council has previously allocated funding for Fiscal Year 2026-27 grant programs in the amount of $2,472,138. The total grant budget for Fiscal Year 2026-27 is $3,370,600. Staff's recommendations are provided in an attached summary and a separate summary of the previously allocated funding and designated items is included in the packet.
FISCAL IMPACT AND FUNDING SOURCE
The projected Fiscal Year 2026-27 revenues for the Community Enhancement & Investment Fund, focusing on Measure H, are estimated to be $11.8 million. $3.37 million is dedicated to community grants. Council is anticipated to approve the community grants resolution in June 2026.
ATTACHMENT(S)
1. Presentation
2. CEIF FY2026-27 Community Grant Requests and Staff Recommendation Summary List
3. CEIF FY2026-27 Previous Allocations and Designated Items Summary List
4. CEIF FY2026-27 Applications (with 7 withdrawals)
1 ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 1
2 • Policy Considerations
• CEIF Criteria, Prioritization &
Restrictions
• Measure H Budget & Community
Grant Commitments
• Staff’s recommendations on FY2026-
27 Applications
• Next Steps for Council & Applicants
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 1
3 Resources
Available
Annually
Transitioning All
One-Day Events
to Microgrants
Existing Program
Support and
New Projects
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 1
4 Arts, Culture, History, and Entertainment.
Children and Youth.
Civic Engagement.
Community Pride.
Education.
Public Safety.
Quality of Life.
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 1
5 LEVERAGE: Other funding, resources, in-kind support, and partnerships
RETURN ON INVESTMENT: Number of people served, benefit to the community, etc.
CAPACITY: Ability to carry out the project/ program and meet the required contracting process including obtaining insurance TIMELINE: Ability to ensure project is accomplished in a finite period of time
PROJECT GOALS & METRICS: Progress in reaching goals can be measured and the project team’s efforts can be focused
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 1
6 $3,370,600
Community Grant
Budget
• FY2026-27 community
grant budget
~$2.4 Million
Commitments
• Previously approved
multiyear grants,
designated funding buckets
and line items (Microgrants,
Field Trips, Youth Sports,
Performing Arts, etc.).
• Arts Culture History
Entertainment & Sports:
$460,000
• Youth Programs &
Services: $1,237,138
• Community Assistance
Programs: $475,000
• Microgrants: $300,000
~$1 Million
Recommendations
• 78 Applications Received
• 7 withdrawn applications
• $4,258,982 Requested from
71 applicants
• 3 applications to be
reviewed under recusal
process
• Current staff
recommendations stand at
$780,500
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 1
7 Previously
Approved
Multiyear
Agreements,
Microgrant
Budget &
Buckets:
$2,472,138
Recommendations
by Staff: $780,500
Unallocated
Grant Funding:
$117,962
Community
Grants Budget:
$3,370,600
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 1
8 Arts, Culture,
History,
Entertainment,
& Sports:
• Funding ideas that
promote arts,
culture, history,
and entertainment
of the benefit of
the Rancho
Cordova
Community
Community
Assistance
Programs:
• Homeless Support
Services and Food
Insecurity
• Capital
Improvements of
community nonprofits
Youth
Programs &
Services:
• Funding for youth
enrichment,
extracurricular
activities, and
mentoring programs
• Funding requests from
School Districts for
education
augmentation
opportunities
• Youth sports
recreational programs
*Buckets &
Designated
Items:
• Microgrants
• Field Trips for
Schools
• Arts in Public Places
• Performing Arts
• Youth Sports Growth
• Multiyear
Commitments
(Ongoing
Community
Programs)
• Idea Incubator
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 1
9 $380,417
$2,539,082
$1,339,483
$460,000
$1,237,138
$475,000
$0
$500,000
$1,000,000
$1,500,000
$2,000,000
$2,500,000
$3,000,000
Arts, Culture, History,
Entertainment, & Sports
Youth Programs and
Services
Community Assistance
Programs
Requested Previously Allocated
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 1
10 Arts, $240,417
Culture,
$80,000 Sports,
$60,000
$0
$50,000
$100,000
$150,000
$200,000
$250,000
$300,000
Arts Culture Sports
Previously
Allocated Amount
for FY2026-27:
$460,000
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 1
11 Notes Recommended by
Staff No. Applicant (A-Z ORDER) Requested
1 AM WINN: School Public Art Enhancement Project $15,000 Refer to Arts Strategic Plan 13 American River Parkway Half Marathon $20,000 Refer to Microgrant 14 College Esports: Rancho Cordova's Annual Expo $40,000 Refer to Microgrant 3 Hummingbird Theatre Company's 2026-27 Season $130,192 $25,000 Performing Arts Bucket 4 My Musical Village: Community Music Initiative $15,400 Refer to Microgrant 6 Ri-Nu Imagination, Inc.: Creative Wellness Series $50,000 $15,000 Existing Program Existing Program. Fund
for 2 years.
Sacramento Children’s Museum Exhibit (Aim High- $25,000 $25,000 Tuskegee Airmen) (multiyear request for 2 years)
8 Refer to Microgrant Sacramento Telangana Association: Festival of $20,000 Flowers
10 7 TE4TN: Theatrical Stage Lighting 2026 $29,825 $0
11 Teatro Espejo: Season 51 $35,000 Refer to Microgrant Grand Total $380,417 $65,000
Key: Yellow indicates a multiyear request.
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 1
12 Citywide, $278,763
EGUSD & SCUSD,
$133,554
FCUSD - External,
$1,002,610
FCUSD - District, $343,430
$0
$200,000
$400,000
$600,000
$800,000
$1,000,000
$1,200,000
Citywide EGUSD & SCUSD FCUSD - External FCUSD - District Previously
Allocated Amount
for FY2026-27:
$1,237,138
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 1
13 Applications for Citywide Youth Programs (A-Z ORDER) Requested Staff Rec. Notes App No.
63 All In Together $7,500 $0
76 Big Brothers-Big Sisters of the Greater Sacramento Area Inc $25,000 $10,000 Sponsorship Capital Airshow Group: Fueling Futures Through Aviation-Based Educational $75,000 $0 Programming
61 Mandarins Performing Arts: Mandarins Parade Corps of Rancho Cordova $25,000 $0 (multiyear request for 3 years)
64 71 Mayes Freeman Youth Sports League $10,250 $0 Refer to RCYC Open Call Metal Maniacs Robotics: The Cordova Spark (STEM) (multiyear request for 3 $16,500 $0 years)
72 73 Rancho Cordova Jiu-jitsu for the city. $7,500 $0
62 Rancho Cordova Little League Enhancement: Facility & Equipment $45,000 $0* *Funding $45,000 from Legacy 66 ReCreate: Creative Reuse STEAM Lab at Sacramento Children’s Museum $25,000 $0 SAC CONNECT LLC: NextGen Summer Workforce Exploration (multiyear $19,329 $0 request for 2 years)
74 67 Sacramento Performing Arts Conservatory: Cordova Youth Spotlight Orchestra $23,434 $23,000 One grant for both programs at
$20,000
68 Suvidha International Foundation: RanchoBot Challenge 2027 $16,750 $15,000 69 Suvidha International Foundation: Speech & Debate Programs $7,500 $5,000 Tahoe Tallac Fastpitch Softball Tournament Participation Support (multiyear $15,000 $0 request for 3 years)
70 75 Utsav 2026 Rancho Cordova Youth Career Expo $5,000 $0 Refer to Microgrant Grand Total $323,763 $53,000
Key: Yellow indicates a multiyear request.
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 1
14 Notes Recommended by
Staff App No. Applications for EGUSD and SCUSD (A-Z ORDER) Requested Refer to Field Trip & Experiential
Learning Bucket
AM Winn Public Waldorf Ek-8 Community Guild: K-8 Handwork $25,000 Instruction Support
78 60 Culturally Relevant Book Give Away $35,563 $12,500 SCUSD only 31 Cypress Grove Elementary VEX IQ Robotics Program $11,550 Refer to RCYC Open Call 32 Cypress Grove Elementary, Afterschool Enrichment Program $41,441 Refer to RCYC Open Call 33 EGUSD: Sunrise Elementary Sly Park Transportation $20,000 $20,000 Grand Total $133,554 $32,500
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 1
15 App No. Applications Impacting FCUSD (A-Z ORDER) Requested Staff Rec. Notes 34 American River Bike Patrol Velo Lancer Program at Cordova High School (12) $35,000 $25,000 Existing program Architects of Hope, Inc.: Fellowship Program 2026-2027 (facility use only) (multiyear $90,000 $0 request for 2 years)
35 36 Book Vending Machine Positive Incentives Program (27) $10,000 $0 Fund Youth Participants
only
37 Cordova High School Music Ambassadors (23) $27,694 $10,000 48 Girls on the Run: Title I Access & Empowerment Initiative (facility use only) $7,050 $0 Harris Center for the Arts ClassACTS School Matinee Program (11) (multiyear request for 3 $17,000 $0 years)
49 50 NorCal Arts (Nu Art) Theatre Classes Williamson, Cordova Gardens & Cordova Villa (13) $75,000 $50,000 Existing program 61 PILLARS: Peers Inspiring Learning, Leadership and Responsible Service (22) $141,500 $35,000 59 POMS: Project Optimism Mentoring Sessions (9) (multiyear request for 3 years) $150,400 $0 52 Rancho Cordova Student Athlete Coalition- Athletic Improvement Plan (21) $265,000 $265,000 Existing program 53 Rancho Cordova Track Club Throwing Cage Safety & Enhancement Project (16) $69,495 $0 Discuss at 4/28 54 River View STEM, Afterschool Enrichment Program (20) $41,441 $0 55 Riverview STEM Academy Competitive VEX IQ Robotics Program (26) $12,020 $0 Match leverage of
another sponsor
56 Suvidha International Foundation: Industrial AI Agent Development Program (17) $50,000 $35,000 58 W. E. Mitchell Middle VEX IQ Robotics Program (19) $11,010 $10,000 Existing program Grand Total $1,002,610 $430,000
Key: Rankings from FCUSD provided in parentheses. Yellow indicates a multiyear request.
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 1
16 Notes Recommended
by Staff Applications from FCUSD (A-Z ORDER) Requested App No. 38 FCUSD: Athletic Support for Mills, Mitchell & Kinney (4) $85,000 $75,000 Existing program 39 FCUSD: CalSOAP AVID tutors for Mills Middle School and Cordova High School (6) $11,630 $0 40 FCUSD: Homeless Students Success and Wellness Initiative (1) $20,000 $20,000 Existing program 41 FCUSD: Middle School Library Start-Up Initiative (10) $15,000 $0 42 FCUSD: Mills Middle School Positive Behavior Intervention Supports (PBIS) (7) $30,000 $20,000 Existing program 43 FCUSD: Mitchell Positive Behavior Intervention Supports (PBIS) Incentives (8) $20,000 $20,000 Existing program Program in Field
Trip &
Experiential
Learning Bucket
FCUSD: Outdoor STEAM Discovery Initiative for Rancho Cordova Elementary Schools $50,000 $0 (TK–5) (3)
44 45 FCUSD: Rancho Cordova Pathways to Invention and Innovation (P2I2) Initiative (5) $24,800 $0 46 FCUSD: Rancho Cordova Spanish Language & High School Pathway Club (14) $22,000 $0 Existing program.
$65,000 $20,000 Fund 1 year only.
FCUSD: The "Power of 20" Literacy Initiative: Expanding Library Access (2) (multiyear request for 3 years)
47 Grand Total $343,430 $155,000
Key: Rankings from FCUSD provided in parentheses. Yellow indicates a multiyear request.
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 1
17 • CEIF grant funds have been used for previously completed and ongoing enhancements to Cordova High Schools Track & Field program including Discus, Steeplechase, and the Hammer Cage. • This application from Rancho Cordova Track Club focuses on the Hammer Cage which CEIF has supported through initial development and repairs over the years: • FY2020-21: Equipment was donated as-is by CSUS to the City and then to FCUSD
• FY2021-22: Necessary equipment repairs for athletic use • FY2023-24: Urgent equipment repairs after 100-year storm • FY2025-26: Essential safety enhancements are on hold pending this application • CEIF has provided grants of $115,000 to support this project. • The current grant request budget does not identify Prevailing Wage for the labor costs of installation of the Hammer Cage. Staff anticipates project budget is $100,000 for successful completion.
App. 53: Rancho Cordova Track Club Throwing Cage Safety & Enhancement Project (16)
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 1
18 Food Insecurity,
$99,460
Housing &
Homelessness,
$25,000
Support Services,
$210,070
Capital/Facilities
Support, $13,181
$0
$50,000
$100,000
$150,000
$200,000
$250,000
Food Insecurity Housing & Homelessness Support Services Capital/Facilities Support Previously
Allocated Amount
for FY2026-27:
$475,000
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 1
19 Notes Staff
Recommendation Applicant (A-Z ORDER) Requested App. No. 23 "4 Paws 2 Freedom" Service and Facility/Peer Support Canine Programs $10,000 $0 Alchemist CDC: Healthy Food Access for Low-Income Families at the $26,302 $0 Rancho Cordova Certified Farmers' Market
16 21 AnchorLine: Senior Scam AI Defense Program $25,000 $0 17 Capital Compassion: Food Recovery Innovation Hub $38,158 $0 COMMUNi T Construction & Design Workforce Initiative: HANDY $50,000 $0 Workforce Initiative
27 Creative Pathways: Arts, Wellness & Workforce Development for Rancho $10,000 $0 Cordova
28 Family Relief Project: Prepared Communities Rancho Cordova (PCRC) $25,000 $0 Initiative
22 Applicant referred to
RCYC Open Call
30 Logo Legacy: L.I.T. (mulityear request for 2 years) $14,120 $0 Existing program.
Fund for 2 years.
Meals On Wheels By ACC: Senior Nutrition Services (multiyear request $35,000 $35,000 for 2 years)
18 15 Rancho Cordova Elks 2484 seating and table improvement project $13,181 $10,000 Sponsorship 24 UCP's Odyssey Day Program's Accessible Man Cave! $6,950 $0 Village Rising: Professional Education Series Event Program (multiyear $69,000 $0 request for 2 years)
26 Volunteers of America: Creating Safe and Stable Living Spaces for $25,000 $0 Families and Children Impacted by Homelessness
19 Grand Total $347,711 $45,000
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 1
20 App No. Project Amount Staff Rec.
$991,772 $0
United Way California Capital Region Keep People
Housed Rancho Cordova (Community Assistance
Programs
20 $0 $553,325
United Way California Capital Region Rancho
Cordova SparkPoint (Youth Programs & Services)
(multiyear request for 2 years)
25 $0 $182,400 United Way California Capital Region KinderCamp (Youth Programs & Services) 57
Subtotal $1,727,497 $0
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 1
21 FY 2026/27 Grant Cycle & Council Meeting Timeline
February 9
at Noon
Application
period
launches.
March 6 at
Noon
Grant deadline
for projects
and programs
requiring a
school or park
district
endorsement.
March 13 at
Noon
Grant deadline
for all projects
and programs
to be
considered in
FY 2026/27.
April 2026
City Council
receives all
applications in
April and will
review grants
as needed into
May 2026.
June 2026
Council adopts
the FY 2026/27
resolution for
CEIF.
Staff notifies
applicants of
funding
decisions
made by the
City Council.
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 1
Community Enhancement Investment Fund Application List
App
No.
Category Title Synopsis (Generated with support from AI) Requested
Staff
Recommendation
Notes (Generated with support from AI)
1 Arts, Culture, History,
Entertainment, and
Sports
AM WINN: School
Public Art
Enhancement
Project
A public art project expanding an existing school mural to create a larger, cohesive installation visible from the street. The project enhances neighborhood aesthetics,
supports local artists, and promotes community pride
accessible to students and residents.
$15,000 $0
Staff recommends that art infrastructure
projects be referred for consideration as
part of the forthcoming Arts Strategic Plan,
which is currently in its early stages.
13 Arts, Culture, History,
Entertainment, and
Sports
American River
Parkway Half
Marathon
A regional running event promoting health, fitness, and tourism while positioning Rancho Cordova as an active
lifestyle destination. The program includes a half
marathon, 5K, and free youth race, and generates
economic activity while supporting ongoing
improvements along the American River Parkway.
$20,000
14 Arts, Culture, History,
Entertainment, and
Sports
College Esports:
Rancho Cordova's
Annual Video Game
Expo
A free, family-friendly gaming expo featuring tournaments, workshops, and interactive exhibits. The event promotes youth engagement and creative expression while
supporting local vendors and fostering community
connection through accessible technology-focused
programming.
$40,000
3 Arts, Culture, History,
Entertainment, and
Sports
Hummingbird
Theatre Company's
2026-2027 Season
A community theatre season featuring three productions
that provide live performances, educational
opportunities, and community engagement. The program
supports local artists, attracts regional audiences, and enhances Rancho Cordova’s cultural offerings while
fostering community pride and expanding access to
performing arts.
$130,192 $25,000
Staff recommends funding the applicant
for one theatrical production in Fiscal Year
2026–27 as part of the Performing Arts
funding category.
FY 2026-27: $25,000
4 Arts, Culture, History,
Entertainment, and
Sports
My Musical Village:
Rancho Cordova
Community Music
Initiative
A community music program offering early childhood
classes, family-friendly concerts, and workshops for
caregivers and educators. The initiative supports child development, strengthens family connections, and
increases access to arts programming while partnering
with local businesses and musicians in Rancho Cordova.
$15,400
6 Arts, Culture, History,
Entertainment, and
Sports
Ri-Nu Imagination,
Inc.: Creative
Wellness Series -
Healing Through Art,
Music and
Mindfulness
Meditation
A year-long series of free weekly creative wellness
workshops combining visual arts, music, and
mindfulness. The program supports emotional wellbeing
and strengthens community connection by providing
accessible, trauma-informed programming for Rancho
Cordova residents, particularly adults and seniors.
$50,000 $15,000
The program demonstrates continued
alignment with CEIF priorities and
consistent delivery of services; staff
recommends maintaining funding at the
prior year level.
FY 2026-27: $ 15,000
Consistent with staff evaluation of similar one-day event programs, this proposal is more appropriately supported through the City’s microgrant program.
Consistent with staff evaluation of similar one-day event programs, this proposal is more appropriately supported through the City’s microgrant program.
Staff recommends applicant consider a microgrant to assess community interest and demonstrate impact through a one-day event.
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 2
Community Enhancement Investment Fund Application List
App
No.
Category Title Synopsis (Generated with support from AI) Requested
Staff
Recommendation
Notes (Generated with support from AI)
8 Arts, Culture, History,
Entertainment, and
Sports
Sacramento
Children's Museum:
Aim High, Soaring
with the Tuskegee
Airmen Exhibit &
Programming
An interactive museum exhibit and community
programming focused on aviation history and STEM
learning. The project highlights the Tuskegee Airmen,
provides hands-on educational experiences, and offers
free community events to inspire youth and engage
families in Rancho Cordova.
$25,000 $25,000
MULTIYEAR REQUEST
The project demonstrates strong
alignment with CEIF priorities and
anticipated community benefit; multi-year
funding supports stability and effective
delivery.
FY2026-27: $25,000
FY 2027-28: $25,000
10 Arts, Culture, History,
Entertainment, and
Sports
Sacramento
Telangana
Association: Festival
of Flowers
A large-scale cultural festival celebrating Telangana
traditions through dance, music, art, food, and
educational workshops. The free event promotes cultural exchange, community pride, and civic engagement while
supporting Rancho Cordova’s identity as a diverse and
vibrant cultural hub.
$20,000
7 Arts, Culture, History,
Entertainment, and
Sports
TE4TN: Theatrical
Stage Lighting 2026
A technical theater project to purchase professional
lighting equipment and provide training workshops for
youth and community members. The program expands
educational opportunities in stage production while
improving the quality of local performances and
supporting Rancho Cordova’s growing performing arts
community.
$29,825 $0
Staff recommends that art infrastructure
projects be referred for consideration as
part of the forthcoming Arts Strategic Plan,
which is currently in its early stages.
11 Arts, Culture, History,
Entertainment, and
Sports
Teatro Espejo:
Season 51
A community-centered theatre season featuring an
original play, a one-man show, and an intercultural arts festival. The program supports local artists, expands
access to culturally diverse programming, and promotes
community connection through performances,
partnerships, and a free public arts celebration.
$35,000
Total of Arts, Culture, History, Entertainment & Sports Applications and Recommendations: $380,417 $65,000
63 Youth Programs &
Services
All In Together Provides a supportive program for at-risk youth focused on arts, life skills, and vocational development.
Participants engage in creative expression, conflict
resolution, and personal growth activities in a safe
environment designed to build confidence, strengthen
community connections, and support positive youth
outcomes.
$7,500 $0
While the application proposes youth
support programming, it does not provide
sufficient detail regarding program
structure, location, and implementation to
evaluate community impact.
Consistent with staff evaluation of similar one-day event programs, this proposal is more appropriately supported through the City’s microgrant program.
Staff recommends the applicant consider a microgrant
opportunity to pilot the festival concept, assess community interest, and demonstrate measurable impact for future funding consideration.
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 2
Community Enhancement Investment Fund Application List
App
No.
Category Title Synopsis (Generated with support from AI) Requested
Staff
Recommendation
Notes (Generated with support from AI)
76 Youth Programs &
Services
Big Brothers-Big
Sisters of the Greater
Sacramento Area
Inc: Pathways to
Potential Mentoring
Program
Expands evidence-based one-to-one mentoring for youth
facing social, academic, and emotional barriers.
Participants are matched with trained adult mentors for long-term support, improving academic engagement,
mental health, and life outcomes. The program provides
structured mentoring, case management, and access to
wraparound services for vulnerable youth.
$25,000 $10,000
The program provides mentoring support
for Rancho Cordova youth; staff
recommends continued funding at a
limited level.
FY2026-27: $10,000
61 Youth Programs &
Services
Capital Airshow
Group: Fueling
Futures Through
Aviation-Based
Educational
Programming
Delivers large-scale aviation STEM programming reaching Rancho Cordova youth through camps, expos, and handson experiences. Students engage with industry professionals, explore career pathways, and build
workforce readiness skills, strengthening confidence, and connecting classroom learning to real opportunities
within our region’s growing aerospace economy.
$75,000 $0
The application does not clearly
demonstrate direct benefit to Rancho
Cordova residents relative to the
requested funding and program scope.
64 Youth Programs &
Services
Mandarins
Performing Arts:
Mandarins Parade
Corps of Rancho
Cordova
Establishes a weekend parade corps program serving
youth ages 10–16 with instruction in music, marching,
and performance. Participants gain technical skills,
confidence, and teamwork experience while performing
at community events. The program expands equitable
access to arts education and strengthens community
pride through public performances.
$25,000 $0
MULTIYEAR REQUEST
The application does not clearly
demonstrate direct benefit to Rancho
Cordova residents relative to the
requested funding and program scope.
71 Youth Programs &
Services
Mayes Freeman
Youth Sports League
Delivers year-round flag football and character
development programming for underserved youth,
emphasizing mentorship, leadership, and mental
wellness. Serving up to 200 participants, the program
builds teamwork, confidence, and community
engagement while providing accessible recreational
opportunities that support positive youth development
and healthy lifestyles.
$10,250 $0
While the application supports youth
sports and mentorship, it does not provide
sufficient detail regarding program
structure and organizational capacity to
evaluate community impact. The applicant
was referred to the Rancho Cordova Youth
Center sports programming opportunity.
72 Youth Programs &
Services
Metal Maniacs
Robotics: The
Cordova Spark -A
Civic STEM Forward
Summer Leadership
Intensive
Delivers a one-week STEM summer program where
middle school students design AI and robotics solutions to real Rancho Cordova challenges. Led by student
mentors, participants develop technical, leadership, and civic engagement skills, culminating in presentations to City leaders and fostering future innovators and
community problem-solvers.
$16,500 $0
MULTIYEAR REQUEST
The application proposes a short-term
program serving a limited number of
participants and does not demonstrate
sufficient community-wide impact relative
to the requested funding.
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 2
Community Enhancement Investment Fund Application List
App
No.
Category Title Synopsis (Generated with support from AI) Requested
Staff
Recommendation
Notes (Generated with support from AI)
73 Youth Programs &
Services
Rancho Cordova Jiujitsu for the city.Offers martial arts training focused on self-defense, discipline, and personal development for local youth. The program builds confidence, physical fitness, and antibullying skills in a structured and supportive environment, fostering teamwork, respect, and resilience while
providing accessible community-based recreation
opportunities.
$7,500 $0
While the application supports youth
development, it does not demonstrate
sufficient Rancho Cordova impact relative
to the requested funding. The applicant
was referred to the Rancho Cordova Youth
Center sports programming opportunity.
62 Youth Programs &
Services
Rancho Cordova
Little League
Enhancement:
Facility & Equipment
Improves safety and quality across shared-use baseball
fields serving over 500 youth annually. Funding supports field maintenance, equipment replacement, and facility
upgrades, preserving accessible recreational spaces,
strengthening community engagement, and promoting
youth health, teamwork, and positive development
through organized sports.
$45,000 $0
The application focuses on facility and
equipment improvements that are better
aligned with other City funding sources;
staff will work with the applicant to pursue
funding through existing Legacy project
resources.
66 Youth Programs &
Services
ReCreate: Creative
Reuse STEAM Lab at
Sacramento
Children’s Museum
Provides free STEAM workshops and camps for Rancho
Cordova youth using recycled materials to create art and engineering projects. The program promotes creativity,
environmental awareness, and hands-on learning while
activating museum space and expanding access to
educational enrichment opportunities for local families. $25,000 $0
The application proposes programming at
a facility that already receives City support;
staff recommends prioritizing funding
toward expanding services across
additional community locations.
74 Youth Programs &
Services
SAC CONNECT LLC:
NextGen Summer
Workforce
Exploration
Provides a 10-week workforce readiness and career
exploration program for underserved youth ages 13–17.
Participants receive training in resume writing, financial literacy, and professional skills, alongside college tours and industry exposure. The program builds confidence,
career awareness, and pathways to employment through
structured, culturally responsive instruction.
$19,329 $0
MULTIYEAR REQUEST
The application proposes a workforce
development program that serves a limited
number of participants relative to the
requested funding.
67 Youth Programs &
Services
Sacramento
Performing Arts
Conservatory:
Cordova Youth
Spotlight Orchestra
Provides a tuition-free orchestra program serving Rancho Cordova youth with twice-weekly instruction, public
performances, and digital showcases. Students develop
musical skills, confidence, and teamwork while gaining
performance experience. The program expands arts
access, builds community engagement through concerts,
and supports youth development through structured
music education.
$23,434 $23,000
The program provides arts instruction for
Rancho Cordova youth; funding is
recommended at a level similar to
previous year.
FY2026-27: $23,000
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 2
Community Enhancement Investment Fund Application List
App
No.
Category Title Synopsis (Generated with support from AI) Requested
Staff
Recommendation
Notes (Generated with support from AI)
68 Youth Programs &
Services
Suvidha International
Foundation:
RanchoBot
Challenge 2027
Delivers hands-on robotics training and competition for elementary and middle school students, teaching coding, engineering, and problem-solving skills. Participants
design and program robots for real-world challenges,
culminating in a community competition that builds
teamwork, confidence, and pathways into STEM
education and careers.
$16,750 $15,000
Staff recommends $20,000 for both items
in applications 68 (RanchoBot) and 69
(Speech & Debate) for the applicant to use
as needed.
69 Youth Programs &
Services
Suvidha International
Foundation: Speech
& Debate Programs
Provides speech and debate training for students in
grades 4–10, building communication, critical thinking, and leadership skills. Through lessons and competitions, participants gain confidence, teamwork abilities, and
academic readiness while preparing for future careers
and civic engagement as effective communicators and
community leaders.
$7,500 $5,000
Staff recommends $20,000 for both items
in applications 68 (RanchoBot) and 69
(Speech & Debate) for the applicant to use
as needed.
70 Youth Programs &
Services
Tahoe Tallac
Fastpitch Softball
Tournament
Participation
Support
Reduces financial barriers for youth softball players by covering tournament participation costs, enabling girls from underserved families to compete and develop skills.
The program promotes inclusion, teamwork, and
leadership while supporting access to competitive sports opportunities that foster personal growth and community engagement.
$15,000 $0
MULTIYEAR REQUEST
The application requests funding for
individual participation costs and does not
demonstrate sufficient impact to Rancho
Cordova residents relative to the
requested funding and program scope.
75 Youth Programs &
Services
Utsav 2026 Rancho
Cordova Youth
Career Expo
Hosts a free community career expo connecting youth
with professionals across diverse industries. Through
interactive booths, mentorship opportunities, and
educational resources, the event expands career
awareness, supports academic pathways, and provides
equitable access to guidance for students, particularly those from underserved backgrounds.
$5,000
Subtotal of Citywide Youth Programs & Services
Requests and Recommendations $323,763 $53,000
78 Youth Programs &
Services
AM Winn Public
Waldorf Ek-8
Community Guild: K8 Handwork
Instruction Support
Supports continuation of a Waldorf-inspired handwork
program providing arts and craft instruction to 400+
students. Funding covers instructor and materials,
preserving hands-on learning that builds fine motor skills, focus, and creativity while maintaining a core component of the school’s educational model.
$25,000 $0
The application requests funding for
ongoing program staffing and operations
within a school setting; staff recommends
these types of enrichment activities be
supported through the City’s field trip and
experiential learning funding allocation.
The application proposes a one-time workforce-focused event.
Staff recommends referral to the City’s microgrant program for oneday events.
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 2
Community Enhancement Investment Fund Application List
App
No.
Category Title Synopsis (Generated with support from AI) Requested
Staff
Recommendation
Notes (Generated with support from AI)
60 Youth Programs &
Services
Culturally Relevant
Book Give Away
Provides five culturally relevant books to under resourced TK–2 students in Rancho Cordova, increasing access to
home libraries and supporting early literacy. The program strengthens reading outcomes, promotes family
engagement, and ensures students see themselves
reflected in literature, improving confidence and longterm academic success. $35,563 $12,500
The program provides direct access to
literacy resources for Rancho Cordova
students; funding is recommended to
support the request for SCUSD.
FY2026-27: $12,500
31 Youth Programs &
Services
Cypress Grove
Elementary VEX IQ
Robotics Program
A school-based robotics program providing hands-on
STEM learning through robot building, coding, and team
challenges. The program expands access to engineering
education, strengthens problem-solving and teamwork
skills, and creates pathways for Rancho Cordova
students to engage in robotics and future STEM
opportunities.
$11,550 $0
While the program supports STEM learning
opportunities, staff is prioritizing
continued support for an existing VEX IQ
robotics program at this time.
32 Youth Programs &
Services
Cypress Grove
Elementary,
Afterschool
Enrichment Program
A comprehensive after-school enrichment program
integrating STEM, academic support, strategic thinking, and sports serving 30 students, PreK–Grade 6. Serving
elementary students, the program builds confidence,
teamwork, and academic skills through robotics,
engineering activities, and structured enrichment in a
safe, engaging environment.
$41,441 $0
While the program provides afterschool
enrichment opportunities, the application
does not demonstrate sufficient impact
relative to the requested funding.
33 Youth Programs &
Services
EGUSD: Sunrise
Elementary Sly Park
Transportation
Funding supports transportation for sixth-grade students to attend Sly Park Environmental Science Camp. The
overnight program provides hands-on STEM learning,
environmental education, and social-emotional
development while reducing financial barriers to
participation for low-income students in Rancho
Cordova.
$20,000 $20,000
The program supports student access to
an educational outdoor experience and
provides direct benefit to Rancho Cordova
students.
FY 2026-27: $20,000
Subtotal of EGUSD & SCUSD Youth Programs &
Services Requests and Recommendations $133,554 $32,500
34 Youth Programs &
Services
American River Bike
Patrol Velo Lancer
Program at Cordova
High School
A ten-week youth cycling program teaching safe riding,
bike maintenance, teamwork, and first aid. Students build endurance through progressive rides culminating in a 32- mile challenge, earning a bicycle upon completion while developing confidence, leadership skills, and connection to the American River Parkway.
$35,000 $25,000
Staff recommends funding at the prior year
level based on continued program delivery
and direct benefit to Rancho Cordova
students.
FY2026-27: $25,000
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 2
Community Enhancement Investment Fund Application List
App
No.
Category Title Synopsis (Generated with support from AI) Requested
Staff
Recommendation
Notes (Generated with support from AI)
35 Youth Programs &
Services
Architects of Hope,
Inc.: Fellowship
Program 2026-2027
A structured after-school mentorship and athletics
program engaging youth through sports, leadership
training, and academic support. Serving hard-to-reach
students, the program builds confidence, life skills, and school engagement while providing consistent
mentorship and a safe environment that promotes
positive decision-making and long-term success.
$90,000 $0
MULTIYEAR REQUEST
Staff prioritized youth programs that
demonstrate clear, direct impact to
Rancho Cordova residents, with defined
outcomes and alignment with current
funding priorities. While many applications
provide valuable services, staff focused on
programs that offer measurable
community benefit relative to the
requested funding.
36 Youth Programs &
Services
Book Vending
Machine Positive
Incentives Program
A literacy and behavior incentive program using a book
vending machine where students earn tokens for positive actions. The program promotes reading, reinforces
positive behavior, and increases equitable access to
books by allowing students to build personal home
libraries.
$10,000 $0
While the project supports student access
to literacy resources, staff is not
recommending funding for similar
infrastructure-based literacy initiatives at
this time.
37 Youth Programs &
Services
Cordova High School
Music Ambassadors
A student travel program enabling music students to
participate in the Disney Imagination Campus. The
experience includes workshops and performances that
build musicianship, teamwork, and leadership while
representing Rancho Cordova and reducing financial
barriers to participation.
$27,694 $10,000
The program supports experiential learning
opportunities and promotes Rancho
Cordova student achievement; partial
funding is recommended to help reduce
financial barriers to participation.
Recommended to fund from Performing
Arts Bucket at $10,000 level.
FY2026-27: $ 10,000
48 Youth Programs &
Services
Girls on the Run: Title
I Access &
Empowerment
Initiative – Rancho
Cordova
An after-school program for girls combining physical
activity with social-emotional learning. Serving Title I schools, the program builds confidence, leadership, and healthy habits while ensuring equitable access through
scholarships, mentorship, and participation in a
culminating community 5K event.
$7,050 $0
The application is not eligible for funding
as proposed due to limitations on
participant eligibility that are not aligned
with program requirements.
49 Youth Programs &
Services
Harris Center for the
Arts ClassACTS
School Matinee
Program
A performing arts access program providing free theatre experiences and transportation for elementary students
from low-income schools. The program enhances
learning, creativity, and cultural exposure while
supporting curriculum through educational materials and increasing equitable access to the arts.
$17,000 $0
MULTIYEAR REQUEST
The application supports experiential
learning opportunities; funding for these
programs is being allocated directly to the
school district for prioritization.
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 2
Community Enhancement Investment Fund Application List
App
No.
Category Title Synopsis (Generated with support from AI) Requested
Staff
Recommendation
Notes (Generated with support from AI)
50 Youth Programs &
Services
NorCal Arts (Nu Art)
Theatre classes and
After School Theatre
production at
Williamson, Cordova
Gardens and
Cordova Villa
Elementary schools
Provides classroom theatre arts and social-emotional
learning instruction to over 1,100 elementary students, along with after-school productions. The program builds confidence, communication, and collaboration skills
while increasing access to arts education and
strengthening school and community engagement.
$75,000 $50,000
The program provides direct arts education
and social-emotional learning services;
staff recommends maintaining prior-year
funding levels without expansion at this
time.
FY2026-27: $50,000
51 Youth Programs &
Services
Peers Inspiring
Learning, Leadership
and Responsible
Service (PILLARS):
Mentoring Rancho
Cordova's Youth
A mentoring and leadership development program serving
approximately 150 middle and high school students in
FCUSD. The program promotes academic improvement,
community service, and personal growth through
mentorship, structured activities, and incentives,
strengthening youth engagement and community
connections.
$141,500 $35,000
The program presents a promising
mentorship model; however,
organizational readiness and program
structure are still developing. Limited
startup funding is recommended to
support further development and evaluate
sustainability.
FY2026-27: $35,000
59 Youth Programs &
Services
Project Optimism
Mentoring Sessions
(POMS)
Provides school-based mentoring and social-emotional
learning for 60 students across two Rancho Cordova
elementary schools. Through culturally responsive
programming, cohort-based sessions, and leadership
development, the program strengthens belonging,
emotional skills, and academic engagement while
supporting school climate and youth success.
$150,400 $0
MULTIYEAR REQUEST
The application represents a new program
with a high funding request; staff
recommends prioritizing existing programs
and projects serving youth at FCUSD sites.
52 Youth Programs &
Services
Rancho Cordova
Student Athlete
Coalition- Athletic
Improvement Plan
Supports over 500 student-athletes through training,
equipment, academic support, and expanded athletic
opportunities. The program strengthens school athletics, promotes leadership and academic success, and builds
community partnerships while increasing equitable
access to sports participation.
$265,000 $265,000
The program supports student-athlete
development and provides direct benefit to
Rancho Cordova youth; staff recommends
maintaining prior-year funding levels.
FY2026-27: $265,000
53 Youth Programs &
Services
Rancho Cordova
Track Club Throwing
Cage Safety &
Enhancement
Project
Funds a new throwing cage system to improve safety,
durability, and usability for track and field athletes. The project addresses operational hazards, supports quality practice conditions, and strengthens access to safe
athletic facilities for students and community users in Rancho Cordova.
$69,495 $0
Further discussion to occur at workshop
on April 28.
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 2
Community Enhancement Investment Fund Application List
App
No.
Category Title Synopsis (Generated with support from AI) Requested
Staff
Recommendation
Notes (Generated with support from AI)
54 Youth Programs &
Services
River View STEM,
Afterschool
Enrichment Program
A comprehensive after-school program integrating
robotics, drone engineering, academic support, strategic thinking, and multi-sport development. Serving PreK–6
students, the program promotes engagement,
confidence, collaboration, and whole-child growth
through structured enrichment in a safe, supportive
environment.
$41,441 $0
While the program provides enrichment
opportunities, staff is prioritizing a diversity
of providers and recommends focusing on
existing programming at Mitchell Middle
School where implementation is already
established.
55 Youth Programs &
Services
Riverview STEM
Academy
Competitive VEX IQ
Robotics Program
Revives a competitive robotics program for 25 elementary and middle school students, providing hands-on
engineering, coding, and team-based competition
experiences. Students build and compete in VEX IQ
tournaments, developing STEM, problem-solving, and
collaboration skills while increasing Rancho Cordova’s
participation in regional robotics competitions.
$12,020 $0
While the program provides enrichment
opportunities, staff is prioritizing a diversity
of providers and recommends focusing on
existing programming at Mitchell Middle
School where implementation is already
established.
56 Youth Programs &
Services
Suvidha International
Foundation:
Industrial AI Agent
Development
Program
A workforce development program training 50 high school and community college students in artificial intelligence and coding. Students build real-world AI applications,
strengthening technical, problem-solving, and
collaboration skills while preparing for future STEM
careers and supporting innovation within the Rancho
Cordova community.
$50,000 $35,000
The program provides advanced STEM
learning opportunities for Rancho Cordova
students; funding is recommended to
support program delivery while leveraging
external funding.
FY2026-27: $35,000
58 Youth Programs &
Services
W. E. Mitchell
Middle VEX IQ
Robotics Program
Provides year-round robotics programming for up to 50
students through beginner instruction and a recreational robotics league. Students gain hands-on STEM
experience, build and program robots, and participate in competitions while developing teamwork, confidence,
and sustained interest in technology and engineering
careers.
$11,010 $10,000
The program provides established STEM
enrichment opportunities at Mitchell
Middle School; staff recommends
continued funding to support ongoing
program delivery at an existing site.
FY2026-27: $10,000
Subtotal of External to FCUSD Youth Programs &
Services Requests and Recommendations $1,002,610 $430,000 38 Youth Programs &
Services
FCUSD: Athletic
Support for Mills,
Mitchell & Kinney
A district-wide initiative supporting after-school athletics through equipment, transportation, and program funding.
The project promotes student engagement, physical
wellness, and school connectedness while reducing
financial barriers and expanding equitable access to
sports opportunities across three Rancho Cordova
schools.
$85,000 $75,000
The program expands access to youth
athletics and enhances existing
programming; funding is recommended to
support participation and reduce barriers
for Rancho Cordova students.
FY2026-27: $75,000
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 2
Community Enhancement Investment Fund Application List
App
No.
Category Title Synopsis (Generated with support from AI) Requested
Staff
Recommendation
Notes (Generated with support from AI)
39 Youth Programs &
Services
FCUSD: CalSOAP
AVID tutors for Mills
Middle School and
Cordova High School
A tutoring program providing CalSOAP-trained tutors to
support AVID students at Mills Middle School and
Cordova High School. The program strengthens academic
performance, critical thinking, and college readiness
through structured peer tutorials and targeted academic support.
$11,630 $0
The application does not demonstrate
sufficient impact relative to the requested
funding, and the proposed staffing model
is not sustainable with one-time funding.
40 Youth Programs &
Services
FCUSD: Homeless
Students Success
and Wellness
Initiative
Provides essential resources for homeless students
including food, clothing, hygiene items, school supplies, and transportation support. Serving over 450 Rancho
Cordova students, the program reduces barriers to
attendance and academic success while improving
stability, well-being, and long-term educational outcomes for vulnerable youth.
$20,000 $20,000
The program provides direct support to
homeless students, addressing critical
barriers to participation and well-being;
multi-year funding is recommended to
support consistent service delivery.
FY2026-27: $20,000
FY2027-28: $20,000
41 Youth Programs &
Services
FCUSD: Middle
School Library StartUp Initiative
Establishes a dedicated middle school library at Riverview STEM Academy with 500–700 books, including STEM,
culturally responsive, and SEL materials. The project
expands literacy access, supports academic
achievement, and creates a permanent educational
resource benefiting current and future Rancho Cordova
students.
$15,000 $0
While the project supports student access
to literacy resources, staff is not
recommending funding for similar
infrastructure-based literacy initiatives at
this time.
42 Youth Programs &
Services
FCUSD: Mills Middle
School Positive
Behavior Intervention
Supports (PBIS)
A comprehensive Positive Behavioral Interventions and
Supports (PBIS) program serving nearly 900 students. The initiative provides incentives, mentoring, attendance
programs, and school-wide engagement activities to
improve behavior, academic outcomes, and school
climate while promoting student success and reducing
absenteeism.
$30,000 $20,000
The program supports student
engagement and school climate in a highneed student population; partial funding is recommended to support youth
engagement efforts.
FY 2026-27: $20,000
43 Youth Programs &
Services
FCUSD: Mitchell
Positive Behavior
Intervention
Supports (PBIS)
Incentives
A school-wide Positive Behavioral Interventions and
Supports (PBIS) program providing incentives, events, and engagement activities. The initiative promotes positive behavior, improves school climate, and supports student wellness through rewards, social-emotional learning, and community-building experiences.
$20,000 $20,000
The program supports student
engagement and school climate in a highneed student population; partial funding is recommended to support youth
engagement efforts.
FY 2026-27: $20,000
44 Youth Programs &
Services
FCUSD: Outdoor
STEAM Discovery
Initiative for Rancho
Cordova Elementary
Schools (TK–5)
Expands access to hands-on STEAM learning through field trips and in-school programs for approximately 3,500
elementary students. The initiative removes financial
barriers, increases engagement in science and
technology, and strengthens connections between
schools and community-based educational
organizations.
$50,000 $0
Staff recommends this application to be
fully funded from the FCUSD Field Trip and
Experiential Learning Bucket.
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 2
Community Enhancement Investment Fund Application List
App
No.
Category Title Synopsis (Generated with support from AI) Requested
Staff
Recommendation
Notes (Generated with support from AI)
45 Youth Programs &
Services
FCUSD: Rancho
Cordova Pathways to
Invention and
Innovation (P2I 2 )
Initiative
A project-based learning initiative engaging students
across three schools in invention and innovation.
Students identify community challenges and develop
solutions while building technical and problem-solving
skills, culminating in participation in the California
Invention Convention and community showcase.
$24,800 $0
Staff recommends that experiential
learning requests be considered through
the district’s allocated Field Trip and
Experiential Learning Bucket funding.
46 Youth Programs &
Services
FCUSD: Rancho
Cordova Spanish
Language & High
School Pathway Club
The middle school initiative strengthens Spanish
language instruction, cultural learning, and high school pathway preparation, increases enrollment in advanced
coursework, and builds a clear transition pathway to
Cordova High School.
$22,000 $0
Staff recommends that experiential
learning requests be considered through
the district’s allocated Field Trip and
Experiential Learning Bucket funding.
47 Youth Programs &
Services
FCUSD: The "Power
of 20" Literacy
Initiative: Expanding
Library Access
A multi-year initiative to expand and modernize library collections across 11 Rancho Cordova schools, aiming
for a 20:1 book-to-student ratio. By increasing access to diverse, high-quality books, the program improves literacy outcomes, reduces achievement gaps, and supports longterm academic success for over 3,000 students. $65,000 $20,000
The program expands access to literacy
resources across multiple Rancho
Cordova schools; while staff is not
recommending funding for site-specific
literacy infrastructure, partial funding is
recommended for this districtwide effort at
$20,000 for one year.
FY2026-27: $20,000
Subtotal of FCUSD District Youth Programs & Services
Requests and Recommendations $343,430 $155,000
Total of ALL Youth Programs and Services Requests
and Recommendations $1,803,357 $670,500
23 Community
Assistance Programs
"4 Paws 2 Freedom"
Service and
Facility/Peer Support
Canine Programs
A training program providing service dogs for veterans and first responders with mental health needs, alongside peer support canines for public safety agencies. The program improves mental wellness, builds independence, and
strengthens community engagement through accessible,
no-cost training and support services.
$10,000 $0
While the program provides valuable
services, the application does not clearly
demonstrate direct impact to Rancho
Cordova residents.
16 Community
Assistance Programs
Alchemist CDC:
Healthy Food Access
for Low-Income
Families at the
Rancho Cordova
Certified Farmers'
Market
A farmers’ market nutrition incentive program that
doubles CalFresh benefits to increase access to fresh,
locally grown food. The program improves food security, supports healthy eating, and strengthens the local
economy by directing spending to regional farmers while fostering community connection at the market.
$26,302 $0
The application does not clearly
demonstrate a distinct or expanded
benefit to Rancho Cordova residents
relative to the requested funding.
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 2
Community Enhancement Investment Fund Application List
App
No.
Category Title Synopsis (Generated with support from AI) Requested
Staff
Recommendation
Notes (Generated with support from AI)
21 Community
Assistance Programs
AnchorLine: Senior
Scam AI Defense
Program
A digital literacy and fraud prevention program teaching seniors how to identify and avoid scams using practical strategies and AI tools. The program improves financial safety, builds confidence with technology, and reduces
vulnerability to fraud through hands-on workshops and
accessible learning resources.
$25,000
17 Community
Assistance Programs
Capital Compassion:
Food Recovery
Innovation Hub
A food recovery and distribution program that rescues
surplus food, repurposes it into meal portions, and
delivers it directly to Rancho Cordova seniors. The
program reduces food waste, improves food security, and supports vulnerable residents through home delivery and inclusive workforce participation.
$38,158 $0
The City currently supports food recovery
initiatives, and additional CEIF funding in
this area is not recommended at this time.
27 Community
Assistance Programs
COMMUNi T
Construction and
Design Workforce
Initiative: HANDY
Workforce Initiative
A hands-on workforce training program teaching
construction and home improvement skills such as
drywall, tiling, and flooring. The program prepares
residents for employment, apprenticeships, or
entrepreneurship while supporting economic mobility
and contributing to neighborhood improvement projects.
$50,000 $0
The application does not clearly
demonstrate sufficient impact relative to
the requested funding or alignment with
current City priorities.
28 Community
Assistance Programs
Creative Pathways:
Arts, Wellness &
Workforce
Development for
Rancho Cordova
A 12-week arts and workforce program combining
storytelling, digital media, and leadership development.
The program builds confidence, supports emotional
wellness, and develops career skills for youth and
families, culminating in a community showcase that
highlights creative expression and strengthens local
engagement.
$10,000 $0
The application does not clearly
demonstrate sufficient impact relative to
the requested funding or alignment with
current City priorities.
22 Community
Assistance Programs
Family Relief Project:
Prepared
Communities
Rancho Cordova
(PCRC) Initiative
A community preparedness program delivering
multilingual workshops, outreach events, and emergency
starter kits. The initiative strengthens disaster readiness, public safety, and community resilience, with a focus on reaching refugee and immigrant populations through
culturally responsive education.
$25,000 $0
While the program supports community
preparedness and resilience, the
application does not clearly demonstrate
measurable impact, defined outcomes, or
differentiation from existing efforts relative
to the requested funding.
Staff recommends the applicant consider a one-day workshop or microgrant opportunity to pilot the program, assess community interest, and demonstrate measurable impact.
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 2
Community Enhancement Investment Fund Application List
App
No.
Category Title Synopsis (Generated with support from AI) Requested
Staff
Recommendation
Notes (Generated with support from AI)
30 Community
Assistance Programs
Logo Legacy: L.I.T. Provides a workforce development program for Rancho Cordova teens, offering hands-on job training as coaches, referees, and food handlers within a youth sports league.
Participants gain employment experience, professional
skills, and leadership development through structured
training, interviews, and mentorship, preparing youth for future careers and community leadership.
$14,120 $0
MULTIYEAR REQUEST
Applicant referred to Rancho Cordova
Youth Center opportunities.
18 Community
Assistance Programs
Meals On Wheels By
ACC: Senior
Nutrition Services
A home-delivered meal program providing nutritious
meals and wellness checks to homebound seniors. The
program supports aging in place, reduces isolation, and promotes health through regular meal delivery, nutrition education, and social interaction for vulnerable older
adults in Rancho Cordova.
$35,000 $35,000
MULTIYEAR REQUEST
Recommend funding to augment existing
CDBG support and expand senior nutrition
services.
FY 2026-27: $35,000
15 Community
Assistance Programs
Rancho Cordova Elks
2484 seating and
table improvement
project
A facility improvement project replacing aging tables and chairs used for community events. The upgrades address
safety concerns and support ongoing programming,
including youth activities, veteran services, and
community gatherings hosted at the Elks Lodge.
$13,181 $10,000
The project provides facility improvements
with indirect community benefit; partial
funding is recommended to support the
request while prioritizing programs with
more direct impact to Rancho Cordova
residents.
FY 2026-27: $10,000
24 Community
Assistance Programs
UCP's Odyssey Day
Program's
Accessible Man
Cave!
A facility enhancement project creating an accessible
recreation space for adults with developmental
disabilities at UCP’s Odyssey Day Program. The “Man
Cave” will provide adaptive technology, seating, and
social space that support independence, reduce
isolation, and strengthen community connection, selfadvocacy, and daily living skills. $6,950 $0
The application is not eligible for funding
as proposed due to limitations on
participant eligibility that are not aligned
with program requirements.
26 Community
Assistance Programs
Village Rising:
Professional
Education Series
Event Program
A financial education workshop series providing
budgeting, credit, and homeownership guidance to
underserved and working families. The program supports
financial stability, economic mobility, and access to
resources through culturally responsive workshops and
one-on-one coaching.
$69,000
19 Community
Assistance Programs
Volunteers of
America: Creating
Safe and Stable
Living Spaces for
Families and
Children Impacted
by Homelessness
A transitional housing enhancement project providing
essential furniture and household items for families
experiencing homelessness. The program creates safe,
stable living environments that support recovery, improve well-being, and help families build routines and readiness for long-term independent housing.
$25,000 $0
While the program supports families
experiencing homelessness, the request is
focused on furnishing a non-city owned
facility; staff recommends prioritizing
direct service programs for Rancho
Cordova residents.
MULTIYEAR REQUEST
Staff recommends the applicant consider a microgrant
opportunity to pilot a one-day event program, assess community interest, and demonstrate measurable impact.
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 2
Community Enhancement Investment Fund Application List
App
No.
Category Title Synopsis (Generated with support from AI) Requested
Staff
Recommendation
Notes (Generated with support from AI)
Total of Community Assistance Programs $347,711 $45,000 20 Community
Assistance Programs
Recusal Process |
United Way
California Capital
Region Keep People
Housed Rancho
Cordova
A homelessness prevention program providing financial
assistance, case management, and supportive services
to residents at risk of eviction. The program stabilizes households, prevents displacement, and connects
participants to employment and resources to support
long-term housing security and community stability.
$991,772 $0
While the program addresses housing
stability for vulnerable residents, the
application represents a large-scale
funding request and does not clearly
demonstrate proportional, measurable
impact specific to Rancho Cordova
residents.
25 Community
Assistance Programs
Recusal Process |
United Way
California Capital
Region Rancho
Cordova SparkPoint
A campus-based financial coaching and workforce
support program helping parents of Rancho Cordova
students stabilize finances, increase income, reduce
debt, and build savings. By connecting families to
coaching and resources, the program strengthens
household stability, supports student success, and
promotes long-term economic mobility for residents.
$553,325 $0
The proposal outlines a comprehensive
service model; however, the request is
substantial and relies on significant
startup and operational costs.
57 Youth Programs &
Services
Recusal Process |
United Way
California Capital
Region KinderCamp
A four-week summer readiness program serving 160
incoming kindergarteners without preschool experience.
The program builds early literacy, math, and socialemotional skills through structured classroom activities, daily reading, and family engagement, helping children
enter school confident, prepared, and positioned for longterm academic success. $182,400 $0
The program supports youth and
educational readiness; however, the
application does not clearly demonstrate
sufficient measurable impact or
prioritization relative to other higherranked proposals.
Total of Recusal Items $1,727,497 $0
Total of Staff Recommended Grants for Arts, Culture,
History, Entertainment, and Sports; Youth Programs &
Services, Community Assistance Programs, and
Recusals
$4,258,982 $780,500
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 2
Community Enhancement Investment Fund Previously Approved Grants, Designated Items, and Buckets for FY2026-27 Category Type Project Description Requested Approved Notes Arts, Culture, History,
Entertainment, &
Sports
Pilot Projects Rancho Cordova River City Concert Band $40,000 Previously Approved Arts, Culture, History,
Entertainment, &
Sports
Pilot Projects Sacramento Area Bicycle Advocates $20,000 Previously Approved Arts, Culture, History,
Entertainment, &
Sports
Pilot Projects Symphony d'Oro $40,000 Previously Approved Arts, Culture, History,
Entertainment, &
Sports
Multiyear Agreement Cordova Community Council Foundation (Arts Programming) $280,000 Previously Approved Arts, Culture, History,
Entertainment, &
Sports
Arts in Public Places Funding for Arts in Public Places $50,000 Council Designation Arts, Culture, History,
Entertainment, &
Sports
Performing Arts
Bucket
Funding for perfuming arts programs $30,000 Council Designation Subtotal of Previously Approved Items and Buckets for
Arts, Culture, History, Entertainment & Sports
$460,000
Youth Programs &
Services
Pilot Projects 916 Ink $55,000 Previously Approved
Youth Programs &
Services
Pilot Projects Blessings in a Backpack $25,000 Previously Approved
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 3
Community Enhancement Investment Fund Previously Approved Grants, Designated Items, and Buckets for FY2026-27 Category Type Project Description Requested Approved Notes Youth Programs &
Services
Pilot Projects Boys & Girls Club $75,000 Previously Approved Youth Programs &
Services
Pilot Projects FCCP JobEx $75,000 Previously Approved
Youth Programs &
Services
Pilot Projects Pro Youth $88,000 Previously Approved
Youth Programs &
Services
Pilot Projects Sacramento Splash $35,000 Previously Approved Youth Programs &
Services
Pilot Projects Sierra Service Project $75,000 Previously Approved Youth Programs &
Services
Pilot Projects Soil Born Farms - Garden Education $55,000 Previously Approved Youth Programs &
Services
Pilot Projects Kiwanis $15,000 Previously Approved
Youth Programs &
Services
Pilot Projects Sacramento Children Museum Gen Ops. $150,000 Previously Approved Youth Programs &
Services
Pilot Projects Center for Landbased Learning - Student and Landowner Education and Watershed Stewardship Program
$83,538 Previously Approved
Youth Programs &
Services
Multiyear Agreement Cordova Community Council Foundation (Sports Programming)
$300,000 Previously Approved
Youth Programs &
Services
Multiyear Agreement Police Activities League - Vans $27,600 Previously Approved Youth Programs &
Services
Multiyear Agreement Police Activities League - Outdoor Adventure Club $18,000 Previously Approved Youth Programs &
Services
Field Trip Bucket -
EGUSD
Funding for Field Trips at EGUSD Schools for Academic Year 2026-2027
$30,000 Previously Approved
Youth Programs &
Services
Field Trip Bucket -
FCUSD
Funding for Field Trips at FCUSD schools for Academic Year 2026-2027
$80,000 Previously Approved
Youth Programs &
Services
Field Trip Bucket
SCUSD
Funding for Field Trips at SCUSD Schools for Academic Year 2026-2027
$20,000 Previously Approved
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 3
Community Enhancement Investment Fund Previously Approved Grants, Designated Items, and Buckets for FY2026-27 Category Type Project Description Requested Approved Notes Youth Programs &
Services
Youth Sports Growth
Bucket
Youth Sports Growth Bucket $30,000 Council Designation
Subtotal of Previously Approved Items and Buckets for
Youth Programs & Services
$1,237,138
Community
Assistance
Pilot Projects Whisker Warriors $50,000 Previously Approved Community
Assistance
Multiyear Agreement Chamber of Commerce EXPLORE $75,000 Previously Approved Community
Assistance
Multiyear Agreement Soil Born Farms - Capacity Building $150,000 Previously Approved Community
Assistance
Multiyear Agreement Folsom Lake College Promise Program $200,000 Previously Approved Subtotal of Previously Approved Items and Buckets for
Community Assistance Programs
$475,000
Microgrant Program Microgrant Program Support for one-day events and activities in Rancho Cordova $300,000 Council Designation Subtotal of Microgrant Program $300,000
Total of all Previously Approved Items and Buckets for
Arts, Culture, History, Entertainment & Sports; Youth
Programs & Services; Community Assistance Programs;
and Microgrant Program.
$2,472,138
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 3
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
Thank you for your interest in applying to the City of Rancho Cordova's Community Enhancement & Investment Fund. Applications are open from February 9, 2026, to March 13, 2026, Noon (12:00 p.m.) with a specific deadline of March 6th Noon (12:00 p.m.) for certain applications**. Before you begin, please read the notes about deadlines and certain types of grant applications/grants below. **School/Park Application Deadline **Note that projects or programs involving a park or school district have a deadline of March 6 Noon (12:00 p.m.) to allow for the third-party endorsement process by the grant deadline.** A Note about Religious Schools and the Application/Grant Process **Note for grant applications from religious schools. The United States Supreme Court has recently ruled in part that:
“denying a generally available benefit [from government] solely on account of religious identity imposes a penalty on the free exercise of religion that can be justified only by a state interest of the highest order.” The City is of the opinion that not all grants to religious schools are prohibited under this and other similar rulings. However, these United States Supreme Court decisions remain in conflict with a section of the California State Constitution that says: “[n]either the Legislature, nor any county, city and county, township, school district, or other municipal corporation, shall ever make an appropriation, or pay from any public fund whatever, or grant anything to or in aid of any religious sect, church, creed, or sectarian purpose, or help to support or sustain any school, college, university, hospital, or other institution controlled by any religious creed, church, or sectarian denomination whatever; nor shall any grant or donation of personal property or real estate ever be made by the state, or any city, city and county, town, or other municipal corporation for any religious creed, church, or sectarian purpose whatever”. The City will accept applications for grants of these City public funds from religious schools, but will have language in the grant agreements to address the possibility and consequences of legal challenges and new court decisions on this and related topics. ** Future Grant Opportunities If you are interested in remaining up-to-date on available grants from the City of Rancho Cordova, click here to sign up for the Grants Interest List. A separate call for programming opportunities with the Rancho Cordova Youth Center is anticipated later in 2026. The list is also used to advertise separate art programs when funds are available. Ongoing Grant Opportunity The City of Rancho Cordova offers a microgrant opportunity. Learn more about those grants online.
Is this your first time
applying for grant
funding from the City
of Rancho Cordova?
As a first-time
applicant, Community
Enhancement &
Investment Fund
(CEIF) staff will
contact you to
discuss your project
and grant application
process.
No: Not a First Time Applicant
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
1 - Project/Program Information Note: You can add a collaborator to this form to assist you in completing this application! A collaborator can help you complete this form by filling in fields for you, although only you can submit this form. You can add a collaborator by navigating to the top of the form and clicking on the 'Manage Collaborators' button. Simply enter their email address and click 'invite' to invite them as a collaborator. If you need further assistance, you may consult this Help article for more information.
Project/Program
Name. Assign a
project name to your
project/program.
School Public Art Enhancement Project
Which category does
your Project/Program
align with?
Arts, Culture, History, & Entertainment
Provide a
Project/Program
Synopsis
This project will extend the existing school mural along an adjoining wall visible from the street, creating a larger and more cohesive public artwork.
The project will enhance the neighborhood’s visual landscape and support the city’s goal of promoting arts and culture in public spaces.
Provide a
Project/Program
Description
This project will extend an existing mural located on the front-facing exterior wall of the school, which is highly visible to the surrounding neighborhood and to individuals traveling along the adjacent street. The current mural, originally funded through the City Community Enhancement grant, runs along a portion of the building that faces parallel to the street and has become a positive and recognizable visual feature for the community. This proposal will expand the mural onto an adjoining wall that turns perpendicular to the street, creating a more complete and cohesive public artwork that enhances the overall visual impact of the installation.
To maintain artistic continuity and preserve the visual integrity of the original design, the project will hire the same local artist who designed and painted the original mural. This approach ensures that the extension will blend seamlessly with the existing artwork while expanding the mural’s reach and storytelling potential. The extended mural will build upon the themes and aesthetic established in the original work, creating a unified piece that is more visible from multiple directions along the street.
Hiring the original artist also supports local arts and cultural professionals while ensuring the highest quality outcome for the project. Maintaining the same artistic voice allows the expanded mural to remain cohesive in style, color palette, and thematic elements. This continuity preserves the integrity of the original artwork while allowing it to grow into a more impactful and meaningful installation.
Because the school is located within a residential neighborhood, the mural serves as a highly accessible form of public art for community members who pass by daily. The extension of the mural will transform an otherwise blank exterior wall into a vibrant and engaging visual landmark. Public art installations such as murals contribute to a stronger sense of place, making neighborhoods feel more welcoming, culturally rich, and visually interesting.
By extending the mural, this project will further enhance the aesthetic ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
quality of the surrounding area and reinforce the school as a positive community presence.
In addition to beautifying the area, the mural contributes to community pride and connection. Schools often serve as central gathering points within neighborhoods, and the presence of public art helps reinforce the school as a welcoming and creative environment. The mural extension will further strengthen the relationship between the school and the broader community by providing a shared visual asset that reflects the value placed on creativity, culture, and community identity.
The extended mural will remain a long-term community asset. Unlike temporary programming, a mural provides lasting benefits for years to come by continuously enhancing the visual environment and promoting appreciation for public art. The location of the mural along a highly visible exterior wall ensures that it will continue to serve residents, students, and visitors as a source of inspiration and neighborhood pride.
Overall, this project represents a thoughtful and cost-effective way to expand an already successful public art initiative. By extending the existing mural with the same artist, the project will enhance the neighborhood’s visual character, support local arts and culture, and contribute to the City’s broader goals of community enrichment and cultural vibrancy.
Tell us about your
Project/Program
Team
The A.M. Winn Community Guild is a volunteer parent organization dedicated to enhancing educational opportunities and enriching experiences for students at A.M. Winn EK-8 Waldorf Inspired Public School, a Title I school in Rancho Cordova.
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
Provide your
Project/Program
Goals
The primary goal of this project is to expand the existing school mural to create a larger, cohesive public art installation that enhances the visual landscape of the neighborhood and increases access to public art for the community. By extending the mural onto an adjoining exterior wall visible from the street, the project will transform an additional blank space into a vibrant cultural asset that can be enjoyed by students, families, neighbors, and visitors.
A second goal is to strengthen the school’s role as a welcoming community landmark. Because the mural faces a public street in a residential neighborhood, the expanded artwork will contribute to neighborhood pride and reinforce the presence of arts and culture within the community.
Progress toward these goals will be measured through several clear metrics.
The first metric is successful project completion, defined as the design, preparation, and painting of the mural extension within the proposed project timeline and budget.
A second metric is increased public art visibility, demonstrated by the completion of the mural extension along the additional wall surface, increasing the overall scale and street visibility of the artwork.
A third metric is community engagement and awareness, which will be supported through communication with the school community and neighborhood about the mural project and its completion.
To ensure the project remains focused and efficiently managed, the project team will work closely with the original mural artist to establish a clear timeline for design, preparation, and installation. The team will monitor progress through key milestones, including finalization of the mural extension design, site preparation, painting, and project completion.
Regular communication between the project team and the artist will help ensure the work remains aligned with the original mural’s artistic vision and with the goals of enhancing the community through public art.
By maintaining clear goals, defined milestones, and regular coordination with the artist, the project team will ensure that the mural extension is completed successfully and continues to serve as a lasting artistic and cultural asset for the community.
Optional File Upload:
Provide any
additional records to
supplement your
program/project
application. Note:
Combine multiple
files in one pdf
before uploading.
2 - Funding & Costs
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
Funding Request -
Complete this
section with total
dollar amounts for
your
project/program's
costs
Funds are generally not intended to be used for deferred maintenance and ongoing operational needs. The funds are intended for enhancing and investing in the City of Rancho Cordova. If your project/program is awarded, the costs identified below would be reviewed and potentially open to modification during a contracting phase (if a grant is awarded by the City Council). If awarded, grant funds are not available until a contract is executed during Fiscal Year 2026-2027.
Total project/program
cost*
15000
What is the amount
of Community
Enhancement &
Investment Fund
grant monies
requested?
15000
Does your
project/program
involve construction
of any facilities or
improvements upon
any property?
No
What is the total cost
of personnel for your
project/program?
9000
What is the total cost
of supplies for your
project/program?
3000
What is the total cost
of transportation for
your
project/program?
0 What is the total cost
of equipment for your
project/program?
1500
What is the total cost
of any miscellaneous
expenses for your
project/program?
1500
Upload your project/program's budget as a .pdf file. Include the categories and their dollar amounts along with information about any other funding sources to demonstrate your project/program's total budget. Note, the sum of all categories must match the total project or program cost, or the amount requested of CEIF if there is no other funding source. Please clearly illustrate any matching funds or funding from other sources in your project/program budget, including in-kind sources. Note: Combine multiple files in one pdf before uploading.
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
Estimated_Project_Budget-_Mural_Extension_Project.pdf
Has your
organization sought
or will seek other
funding for this
project/program?
No, not seeking any other funding support.
Please explain why
you are not seeking
any other funding
support for your
project/program.
The scope of this project was intentionally designed to align with the funding available through the City’s Community Enhancement & Investment Fund. Because the mural extension is a focused expansion of an existing public artwork, the requested funding amount is sufficient to complete the project. Seeking additional funding sources is not necessary and could delay implementation of a project that directly benefits the community Please describe any
ongoing operations
and maintenance
costs beyond Fiscal
Year 2026/2027, if
applicable.
Do you have
volunteer or in-kind
support for your
project? This could
include volunteers for
an activity/event that
is ongoing or a onetime experience.
Yes
Please share the
total dollar amount
for volunteer/in-kind
support using $34.79
as the national rate
for a volunteer hour.
Source: Value of
Volunteer Time
1042.5
Please provide a worksheet explaining your volunteer/in-kind contribution. You may upload a file in the following formats: CSV, DOC, DOCX, or PDF.
Volunteer_Hours.pdf
Is this a single year
request or a request
for funding for
multiple years?
Single Year
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
Has your
project/program
received funding from
the Community
Enhancement &
Investment Fund
previously?
No
3 - Project/Program Details Grant applications are typically approved to occur between July 2026 through June 2027. What is your plan to complete this project/program within this time frame?
Anticipated Start
Date (July 1 is the
soonest available
start date)
7/1/2026
Anticipated End Date
(typically
projects/programs
end by June 30)
9/16/2026
Please describe your
project/program
schedule
Weeks 1-2
Confirm grant award, finalize agreement with mural artist, and review project scope
Week 3-4
Artist develops and finalizes mural extension design to ensure continuity with the existing mural
Week 5
Site preparation planning, materials ordering, and scheduling of equipment
Week 6
Wall preparation including cleaning, priming, and minor surface repairs Weeks 7-9
Painting and installation of the mural extension
Week 10
Final detailing, protective coating application, and project completion Week 11
Project review and documentation (photos, communication to community
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
What challenges do
you anticipate in your
project/program's
implementation?
What is your plan to
complete your
project/program
should those or other
challenges arise?
A potential challenge would come with coordinating with the Sacramento City Unified School's facilities department. We have established a relationship with them with the last mural project and have learned to successfully navigate their process. We believe we will be able to streamline this process for this project.
How many individuals
does your
project/program
serve?
400 students plus neighborhood community.
How many Rancho
Cordova residents
does your
project/program
serve?
400 students plus neighborhood community.
4 - Project/Program Location
Address Verification If you need to check if your project is in Rancho Cordova, type in your program/project's location in the Assessor Parcel Viewer:
https://assessorparcelviewer.saccounty.gov/jsviewer/assessor.html ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
School and park
related applications
are due before Noon
(12:00 p.m.) on
March 6, 2026, to
allow for the
endorsement
process.
Please note that projects or programs that are proposed on property owned or operated by outside agencies or a private party will require coordination with and potentially approvals from outside agencies, organizations, and/or the private party. Include whether you have received a letter of support for the project/program from the property owner. Upload any letters of support with your application. City staff will verify third-party permits have been discussed. In your planning discussions, be sure to discuss any necessary insurance or volunteer requirements that may increase budget costs. School Sites If your project/program is intended to operate at a public K-12 school site, your application is due by March 6 at Noon (12:00 p.m.). City staff will work with the school districts to confirm an endorsement for your project/program. It’s the applicant’s responsibility to communicate with school site and district representatives before applying so there is clarity during the endorsement process. Districts will only consider endorsement for applications submitted to the Community Enhancement & Investment Fund by the March 6 at Noon (12:00 p.m.). deadline. Each participating school superintendent reserves the right to withhold their endorsement of a project/program. Parks If your project/program is intended to operate at a park or community center site, your application is due by the March 6 at Noon (12:00 p.m.). deadline. City staff will work with the Cordova Recreation & Park District to confirm an endorsement for your project/program. It’s the applicant’s responsibility to communicate with district representatives before applying so there is clarity during the endorsement process. A special use permit application is required for any program or event planned at a CRPD facility. The special use application can be found at the CRPD website:
https://www.cordovarpd.gov/. CRPD will only consider endorsement for applications submitted to the Community Enhancement & Investment Fund by the March 6 at Noon (12:00 p.m.). deadline. The Cordova Recreation & Park District reserves the right to withhold their endorsement of a project/program. Below is the list of staff to communicate with at school and park organizations: Folsom Cordova Unified School District:
[email protected] Cordova Recreation & Park District:
[email protected] Elk Grove Unified School District:
[email protected] Sacramento City Unified School District: Tuan[email protected] for Winn and Carver and [email protected] for Lincoln.
Primary street
address of
project/program
3351 Explorer Dr. Sacramento, CA 95827
List the city location
of the
project/program.
A.M. Winn EK-8 Public Waldorf School
Select State CA
Provide the zip code
for your
project/program's
primary location.
95827
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
If your
project/program
takes place at
multiple locations,
please list other or
secondary locations.
Third Party Letters of
Support (Note:
Combine multiple
files in one pdf
before uploading)
Does your
project/program
involve one of
Rancho Cordova's
school districts?
Yes
Is the
project/program
requesting facility
use only or is this a
request to partner
with the school
district?
Facility Use Only. Visit the school district website for facility use information.
Please select all the
school districts which
your project/program
intends to involve:
Sacramento City USD
Please select one or
more of the
Sacramento City
Unified School
District school
facilities which your
project/program will
involve:
A.M. Winn EK-8 School
Have you reached
out to a contact at
the school(s) you
indicated above?
Yes
Please provide the
names of your
contacts at the
school(s) or
district(s) who are
familiar with your
project/program.
Nisha Turturici, Principal
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
Does your
project/program
involve the Cordova
Recreation & Park
District?
No
5 - Applicant Information
Name Katie
Smith
Is this
project/program on
behalf of an
organization?
Yes
What is the name of
your organization?
A.M. Winn Community Guild
What is your title
and/or role at your
organization?
Vice Chair
Provide contact
phone number:
Provide contact
email:
Are you the primary
point of contact on
this project/program?
Yes
If your
project/program was
awarded the
requested funds, are
you authorized to
sign the contract for
your organization?
No, someone else would sign the contract
If selected by the
City Council to
receive an award,
what is the name of
the person at your
organization who
would sign the
contract?
Kris
Adams
What is the title of
this individual?
Treasurer
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
What is the best
phone number where
we could contact the
signatory?
What is the best
email address to
contact the
signatory?
By checking here, I
confirm that I am
aware that my
application materials
will become public
record.
checked
Thank you for applying to the Community Enhancement & Investment Fund Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Grant Cycle. Applicants will receive an automated response through the grant portal. Community Enhancement & Investment Fund (CEIF) Staff will follow up with any questions regarding your Fiscal Year 2026-2027 application. For information about the next steps in the CEIF grant process, visit our website for more information. It is anticipated that applications will be reviewed by the City Council starting in April 2026 with adoption in June 2026. Should applicants be awarded by the City Council, funding would not be available to grantees until the start of Fiscal Year 2026-2027 and the completion of a contract. Please send an email to [email protected] with any questions or comments.
Internal Form
Score n/a
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
Estimated Project Budget- Mural Extension Project
Category Description Amount
Artist Fee
(Labor/Salaries)
Design work, planning, surface layout, and painting of the mural extension $9,000
Materials & Supplies
Exterior mural paints, sealant/anti-graffiti coating, brushes, rollers, drop cloths, prep supplies $3,000
Equipment Lift/scaffolding rental, ladders, safety equipment $1,500 Surface Preparation Wall cleaning, priming, repair materials $1,500 Volunteer Parent
Hours Volunteer support for project coordination and site assistance $0 Project Total $15,000
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
Volunteer
Hours
Hourly
Rate
Total In-Kind
Value
15 hours $34.75 $521.25
16 hours $34.75 $556.00
17 hours $34.75 $590.75
18 hours $34.75 $625.50
19 hours $34.75 $660.25
20 hours $34.75 $695.00
21 hours $34.75 $729.75
22 hours $34.75 $764.50
23 hours $34.75 $799.25
24 hours $34.75 $834.00
25 hours $34.75 $868.75
26 hours $34.75 $903.50
27 hours $34.75 $938.25
28 hours $34.75 $973.00
29 hours $34.75 $1,007.75
30 hours $34.75 $1,042.50
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
2. Application
Withdrawn
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
Thank you for your interest in applying to the City of Rancho Cordova's Community Enhancement & Investment Fund. Applications are open from February 9, 2026, to March 13, 2026, Noon (12:00 p.m.) with a specific deadline of March 6th Noon (12:00 p.m.) for certain applications**. Before you begin, please read the notes about deadlines and certain types of grant applications/grants below. **School/Park Application Deadline **Note that projects or programs involving a park or school district have a deadline of March 6 Noon (12:00 p.m.) to allow for the third-party endorsement process by the grant deadline.** A Note about Religious Schools and the Application/Grant Process **Note for grant applications from religious schools. The United States Supreme Court has recently ruled in part that:
“denying a generally available benefit [from government] solely on account of religious identity imposes a penalty on the free exercise of religion that can be justified only by a state interest of the highest order.” The City is of the opinion that not all grants to religious schools are prohibited under this and other similar rulings. However, these United States Supreme Court decisions remain in conflict with a section of the California State Constitution that says: “[n]either the Legislature, nor any county, city and county, township, school district, or other municipal corporation, shall ever make an appropriation, or pay from any public fund whatever, or grant anything to or in aid of any religious sect, church, creed, or sectarian purpose, or help to support or sustain any school, college, university, hospital, or other institution controlled by any religious creed, church, or sectarian denomination whatever; nor shall any grant or donation of personal property or real estate ever be made by the state, or any city, city and county, town, or other municipal corporation for any religious creed, church, or sectarian purpose whatever”. The City will accept applications for grants of these City public funds from religious schools, but will have language in the grant agreements to address the possibility and consequences of legal challenges and new court decisions on this and related topics. ** Future Grant Opportunities If you are interested in remaining up-to-date on available grants from the City of Rancho Cordova, click here to sign up for the Grants Interest List. A separate call for programming opportunities with the Rancho Cordova Youth Center is anticipated later in 2026. The list is also used to advertise separate art programs when funds are available. Ongoing Grant Opportunity The City of Rancho Cordova offers a microgrant opportunity. Learn more about those grants online.
Is this your first time
applying for grant
funding from the City
of Rancho Cordova?
As a first-time
applicant, Community
Enhancement &
Investment Fund
(CEIF) staff will
contact you to
discuss your project
and grant application
process.
No: Not a First Time Applicant
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
1 - Project/Program Information Note: You can add a collaborator to this form to assist you in completing this application! A collaborator can help you complete this form by filling in fields for you, although only you can submit this form. You can add a collaborator by navigating to the top of the form and clicking on the 'Manage Collaborators' button. Simply enter their email address and click 'invite' to invite them as a collaborator. If you need further assistance, you may consult this Help article for more information.
Project/Program
Name. Assign a
project name to your
project/program.
Hummingbird Theatre Company's 2026-2027 Season
Which category does
your Project/Program
align with?
Arts, Culture, History, & Entertainment
Provide a
Project/Program
Synopsis
As Rancho Cordova's resident community theatre, we want to make storytelling available for all. Our motto is "Theatre for the People". We believe in engaging audiences with performances that not only make them reflect thoughtfully, laugh longer, and feel more, but also inspire pride in their hometown of Rancho Cordova.
Provide a
Project/Program
Description
For our proposed 2026-2027 Season, we put forth three incredible shows.
First in the Fall we have Oscar Wide's "The Importance of Being Earnest", in Spring we have the romantic "Shakespeare In Love", and in Summer we have a revival of "Rock of Ages".
The Importance of Being Earnest is a classic stage comedy that was penned by the famous Oscar Wilde. Filled with witty banter and ridiculous scenarios, this is a delightful stage play about strict Victorian morality, romance, and mistaken identities.
"Shakespeare In Love" explores William Shakespeare as a young man.
Cursed with writers block, he desperately searches for inspiration when he meets a young man named Thomas... Or is it really a woman named Viola just trying to get stage time? Anyway, they begin a love affair and Will writes his best seller- "Romeo & Juliet". It received the 2015 Olivier Award for Best New Comedy.
"Rock of Ages" is an 80's Rock Jukebox musical- which means everyone knows all the songs. Featuring classics like, "I Wanna Rock", "Sister Christian", "Pour Some Sugar On Me", and "We Built This City on Rock & Roll"- we played this 2 years ago to completely sold out crowds. We even sold out of tickets before the show began. We'd like to come back, with most of our original cast, to once again melt your face off with live music and the power of Rock & Roll.
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
Tell us about your
Project/Program
Team
Our project will continue to put Rancho Cordova on the map as a city who invests in its artists. Because of this funding, Hummingbird Theatre Co has become a high-value company that produces excellent quality work. Actors from the Sacramento region are driving from Davis and Woodland to be a part of our company, even when there are other theatre companies in their local area. Our project team includes: Danielle Mercado, Diane Standring, Jarod Wiggins, Sarah Feuerbach,Tom Colburn, Rick Kirlin, Kat Folsom, Joe Sauvageau, Jennifer Reeves, Doug Wilcox & Shannon Benn.
Provide your
Project/Program
Goals
Our goals are to provide arts and educational entertainment in the form of performance arts. We want to create incredible art and share this very collaborative and inspirational art form with local performers, technicians, musicians, as well as the community. We want to invite students to educational theatre and do talk backs with students and teachers. We want to provide excitement about culture and nightlife in Rancho Cordova and give the people here somewhere to go on a Friday night to have fun. We also want to reinvigorate our City's reputation to providing beautiful, enriching experiences and build community pride.
We can measure metrics through audience attendance (tickets sold, seat occupancy rate, # of sold out performances, growth in audience attendance) audience engagement (social media engagement, audience talk backs, number of repeat attendees across the season, & post show surveys), Community outreach (discounted student tickets, creating partnerships) and artistic impact (surveys, reviews- Local and personal, news outlets, etc)
As a company, we maintain excellent focus. Years of working together (funded and not) have built great relationships and processes of doing things. We have a breakdown of each category and work to check our tick boxes so that we are always on time and deliver and incredible project. We also have company post show reviews where we discuss what we can do better the next show, and then implement it.
Optional File Upload: Provide any additional records to supplement your program/project application. Note: Combine multiple files in one pdf before uploading.
Grant_Cycle_2026.pdf
2 - Funding & Costs
Funding Request -
Complete this
section with total
dollar amounts for
your
project/program's
costs
Funds are generally not intended to be used for deferred maintenance and ongoing operational needs. The funds are intended for enhancing and investing in the City of Rancho Cordova. If your project/program is awarded, the costs identified below would be reviewed and potentially open to modification during a contracting phase (if a grant is awarded by the City Council). If awarded, grant funds are not available until a contract is executed during Fiscal Year 2026-2027.
Total project/program
cost*
130192
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
What is the amount
of Community
Enhancement &
Investment Fund
grant monies
requested?
130192
Does your
project/program
involve construction
of any facilities or
improvements upon
any property?
No
What is the total cost
of personnel for your
project/program?
51800
What is the total cost
of supplies for your
project/program?
53313
What is the total cost
of transportation for
your
project/program?
0 What is the total cost
of equipment for your
project/program?
6000
What is the total cost
of any miscellaneous
expenses for your
project/program?
13076
Upload your project/program's budget as a .pdf file. Include the categories and their dollar amounts along with information about any other funding sources to demonstrate your project/program's total budget. Note, the sum of all categories must match the total project or program cost, or the amount requested of CEIF if there is no other funding source. Please clearly illustrate any matching funds or funding from other sources in your project/program budget, including in-kind sources. Note: Combine multiple files in one pdf before uploading.
Grant_Cycle_2026.pdf
Has your
organization sought
or will seek other
funding for this
project/program?
Yes, actively seeking funding support or have secured additional funding support for this project/program.
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
Describe any funding
secured or being
sought for this
project/program.
We are seeking space to be donated or provided at a lower cost to help with expenses for rehearsal/ performance space. We are seeking donors/providers for print materials as well.
Please describe any
ongoing operations
and maintenance
costs beyond Fiscal
Year 2026/2027, if
applicable.
NA
Do you have
volunteer or in-kind
support for your
project? This could
include volunteers for
an activity/event that
is ongoing or a onetime experience.
Yes
Please share the
total dollar amount
for volunteer/in-kind
support using $34.79
as the national rate
for a volunteer hour.
Source: Value of
Volunteer Time
102421.76
Please provide a worksheet explaining your volunteer/in-kind contribution. You may upload a file in the following formats: CSV, DOC, DOCX, or PDF.
Grant_Cycle_2026.pdf
Is this a single year
request or a request
for funding for
multiple years?
Single Year
Has your
project/program
received funding from
the Community
Enhancement &
Investment Fund
previously?
Yes
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
How many years has
your project/program
received funding from
the Community
Enhancement &
Investment Fund?
3 How much funding
has your organization
received from the
Community
Enhancement &
Investment Fund
through our
traditional grants (not
including
microgrants)?
Approximately $196,000
3 - Project/Program Details Grant applications are typically approved to occur between July 2026 through June 2027. What is your plan to complete this project/program within this time frame?
Anticipated Start
Date (July 1 is the
soonest available
start date)
7/31/2026
Anticipated End Date
(typically
projects/programs
end by June 30)
6/27/2027
Please describe your
project/program
schedule
"The Importance of Being Earnest" Auditions Aug 2026- Shows November 2026
"Shakespeare In Love" Auditions December 2026- Shows March 2027 "Rock of Ages" Auditions March 2027- Shows June 2027
What challenges do
you anticipate in your
project/program's
implementation?
What is your plan to
complete your
project/program
should those or other
challenges arise?
We always run into challenges with securing space, but multiple avenues are currently being discussed and already underway. I have an incredible team and we are always able to overcome any problems that arise.
How many individuals
does your
project/program
serve?
One show generates around 700 people served. 3 shows would generate around 2100
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
How many Rancho
Cordova residents
does your
project/program
serve?
Many, as audiences and actors make up about half of our program. 4 - Project/Program Location
Address Verification If you need to check if your project is in Rancho Cordova, type in your program/project's location in the Assessor Parcel Viewer:
https://assessorparcelviewer.saccounty.gov/jsviewer/assessor.html School and park
related applications
are due before Noon
(12:00 p.m.) on
March 6, 2026, to
allow for the
endorsement
process.
Please note that projects or programs that are proposed on property owned or operated by outside agencies or a private party will require coordination with and potentially approvals from outside agencies, organizations, and/or the private party. Include whether you have received a letter of support for the project/program from the property owner. Upload any letters of support with your application. City staff will verify third-party permits have been discussed. In your planning discussions, be sure to discuss any necessary insurance or volunteer requirements that may increase budget costs. School Sites If your project/program is intended to operate at a public K-12 school site, your application is due by March 6 at Noon (12:00 p.m.). City staff will work with the school districts to confirm an endorsement for your project/program. It’s the applicant’s responsibility to communicate with school site and district representatives before applying so there is clarity during the endorsement process. Districts will only consider endorsement for applications submitted to the Community Enhancement & Investment Fund by the March 6 at Noon (12:00 p.m.). deadline. Each participating school superintendent reserves the right to withhold their endorsement of a project/program. Parks If your project/program is intended to operate at a park or community center site, your application is due by the March 6 at Noon (12:00 p.m.). deadline. City staff will work with the Cordova Recreation & Park District to confirm an endorsement for your project/program. It’s the applicant’s responsibility to communicate with district representatives before applying so there is clarity during the endorsement process. A special use permit application is required for any program or event planned at a CRPD facility. The special use application can be found at the CRPD website:
https://www.cordovarpd.gov/. CRPD will only consider endorsement for applications submitted to the Community Enhancement & Investment Fund by the March 6 at Noon (12:00 p.m.). deadline. The Cordova Recreation & Park District reserves the right to withhold their endorsement of a project/program. Below is the list of staff to communicate with at school and park organizations: Folsom Cordova Unified School District:
[email protected] Cordova Recreation & Park District:
[email protected] Elk Grove Unified School District:
[email protected] Sacramento City Unified School District: Tuan[email protected] for Winn and Carver and [email protected] for Lincoln.
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
Primary street
address of
project/program
2300 Mine Shaft Ln, Rancho Cordova, Ca 95742
List the city location
of the
project/program.
2300 Mine Shaft Ln, Rancho Cordova, Ca 95742
Select State CA
Provide the zip code
for your
project/program's
primary location.
95742
If your
project/program
takes place at
multiple locations,
please list other or
secondary locations.
Third Party Letters of
Support (Note:
Combine multiple
files in one pdf
before uploading)
Does your
project/program
involve one of
Rancho Cordova's
school districts?
No
Does your
project/program
involve the Cordova
Recreation & Park
District?
No
5 - Applicant Information
Name Danielle
Mercado
Is this
project/program on
behalf of an
organization?
Yes
What is the name of
your organization?
Hummingbird Theatre Company
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
What is your title
and/or role at your
organization?
Artistic Director
Provide contact
phone number:
Provide contact
email:
Are you the primary
point of contact on
this project/program?
Yes
If your
project/program was
awarded the
requested funds, are
you authorized to
sign the contract for
your organization?
Yes, I would be the one to sign the contract
By checking here, I
confirm that I am
aware that my
application materials
will become public
record.
checked
Thank you for applying to the Community Enhancement & Investment Fund Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Grant Cycle. Applicants will receive an automated response through the grant portal. Community Enhancement & Investment Fund (CEIF) Staff will follow up with any questions regarding your Fiscal Year 2026-2027 application. For information about the next steps in the CEIF grant process, visit our website for more information. It is anticipated that applications will be reviewed by the City Council starting in April 2026 with adoption in June 2026. Should applicants be awarded by the City Council, funding would not be available to grantees until the start of Fiscal Year 2026-2027 and the completion of a contract. Please send an email to [email protected] with any questions or comments.
Internal Form
Score n/a
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
1 Hummingbird Theatre Company’s 2026-2027
Season Budget Breakdown
2026 Rancho Cordova Community Enhancement & Investment Fund Application CATEGORY- Show Comedy:
The Importance
of Being Earnest
August 2026-
November 2026
History:
Shakespeare in
Love
December 2026-
March 2027
Musical:
Rock of Ages
Revival
April 2026-
June 2027
INSURANCE:
TOTAL 3500/year - -
REHEARSAL &
PERFORMANCE SPACE:
Heartstoppers, Re-Nu, various 4000 4000 4000
TOTAL 4000 4000 4000
PRODUCTION EXPENSES:
Rights, Scripts, Music, etc. 1800 3500 5000
Music/ Band N/A 1000 3000
Costumes 1500 3000 2000
Props 1000 1000 500
Superior Self Storage- $293/mo 1,172 1,172 1,172
Sets 2500 3500 3500
Lights 3000 4000 4000
Sound (Mics, sound equipment) 2000 2000 2000
TOTAL $12,972 $19,172 $21,172
ADVERTISING:
Posters, flyers, cards, print 1000 1000 1000
Large Neighborhood signs 800 800 800
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
2 Online- Meta/ local papers: ads,
social media boosts
1000 1000 1000
Canva- 12.99/mo 52 52 52
Wix- $20/mo 80 80 80
Eventbrite- $15/mo 60 60 60
Promo Photos 200 200 200
TOTAL $3,192 $3,192 $3,192
STAFF:
Artistic Director 2000 2000 2000
Producer 1500 1500 1500
Director 1500 1500 1500
Music Director N/A NA 1500
Band Director NA 500 1000
Musicians NA 4 @200= 800 4@600=2400
Tech Director 800 1200 1500
Technician 400 400 400x2= 800
Costumer 1000 1500 1200
Costume Assistant 200 700 300
Master Carpenter 1200 1500 1200
Stage Manager 600 800 800
Choreographer N/A 800 1500
Fight Choreographer N/A 700 N/A
Marketing Person 600 600 600
Accountant 600 600 600
Set Assistant 400 400 400
Scenic Painter 500 500 500
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
3 Actors 12x100= 1200 20 x 100=2000 20 x 100=2000
TOTAL $12,500 $18,000 $21,300
Show Totals
The Importance of Being Earnest 32,664
Shakespeare In Love 44,364
Rock of Ages 49,664
Insurance 3500
Grand Total
$130,192
Expenditures Estimate Total
Rehearsal and Production
Space
Rancho Cordova Library, Heartstoppers Haunted House, Elks Lodge, Amphitheatre, Re-New and Hawkins Dance Studio.
Assumes rehearsal space costs $25/hr. If we are able to secure donated space, the program will realize savings.
Importance of Being Earnest: 4,000
Shakespeare In Love: 4,000
Rock of Ages: 4,000
$12,000
Staff Importance of Being Earnest: 12,500
Shakespeare In Love: 18,000
Rock of Ages: 21,300
$51,800
Production Expenses Importance of Being Earnest: 12,972 Shakespeare In Love: 19,172
Rock of Ages: 21,172
$53,316
Miscellaneous Expenses Importance of Being Earnest: 3,192 Shakespeare In Love: 3,192
Rock of Ages: 3,192
Yearly Insurance: 3500
$13,076
Estimated Expenses $130,192
Revenues Estimate Total
City of Rancho Cordova
Grant
$130,192
Donation of Rehearsal Space
Assumes commitment of
TE4TN, church, or other
vacant commercial space
$10,000 in kind
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
4 Donation of
Producing/Advising by
Diane Standring
10 hours/month at $50/hour= $6,000 $6,000 in kind
Donation of Professional
Services
Producing
400 hrs at $50/ hr = $20,000
Directing
310 hrs at $50/hr= $15,500
Dramaturgy
39 hrs at $50/hr= $1,950
Costuming
210 hrs at $50/hr= $10,500
Sewing
140 hrs at $25/hr= $3,500
Musical Directing
130 hrs at $50/hr= $6,500
Choreography
130 hrs at $50/hr= $6,500
Carpenter
70 hrs at $50/hr= $3,500
Set/Lighting Designer
75 hrs at $60/hr = $4,500
Skilled Building
212 hrs at $40/hr= $8,500
Fabricating Props/Sets
42 hrs at $60/hr= $2500
Acting
$15/hr
Comedy- 1500 per actor x 15 actors = $22500
Musical- $2,700 per actor x 25 actors = $67500
History- $1500 per actor x 20 actors = $30000
TOTAL ACTING = $93,000
Sound Design/Engineer
300 hrs at $25/hr= $7500
Advertising
68 hrs at $50/hr= $3,400
Graphic Design
40 hrs at $60/hr= $2,400
Print
133 hrs at $18/hr= $2,400
Secretarial
130 hrs at $20/hr= $2,600
Tech/ Manual Labor
115 hrs at $20/hr= $2,300 per person
2 on Musical, 1 on other productions = $9200
TOTAL IN KIND = $203,950
- $51,800 budgeted for Staff Stipends
$203,950 in kind
Production Revenues (Ticket and concession sales)
Importance of Being Earnest: 7500
Shakespeare In Love: 9000
$25,500*
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
5 Rock of Ages: 9000
*Number may actually be less because fluctuating audience, and credit card/online processing fees
**assumes ticket sales to support additional stipends, tech equipment, specialty items and coaching classes.
Estimated Total Revenues $155,692
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
City of Rancho Cordova Powered by Submittable
Title My Musical Village: Rancho
Cordova Community Music
Initiative
by Ariel Elliott in Fiscal Year 2026-2027
Community Enhancement & Investment Fund
Grant Application
RANCHO CORDOVA, California
95670
CA
United States
[email protected]
03/06/2026
id. 53403974
Original Submission 03/06/2026
Score n/a
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
Thank you for your interest in applying to the City of Rancho Cordova's Community Enhancement & Investment Fund. Applications are open from February 9, 2026, to March 13, 2026, Noon (12:00 p.m.) with a specific deadline of March 6th Noon (12:00 p.m.) for certain applications**. Before you begin, please read the notes about deadlines and certain types of grant applications/grants below. **School/Park Application Deadline **Note that projects or programs involving a park or school district have a deadline of March 6 Noon (12:00 p.m.) to allow for the third-party endorsement process by the grant deadline.** A Note about Religious Schools and the Application/Grant Process **Note for grant applications from religious schools. The United States Supreme Court has recently ruled in part that:
“denying a generally available benefit [from government] solely on account of religious identity imposes a penalty on the free exercise of religion that can be justified only by a state interest of the highest order.” The City is of the opinion that not all grants to religious schools are prohibited under this and other similar rulings. However, these United States Supreme Court decisions remain in conflict with a section of the California State Constitution that says: “[n]either the Legislature, nor any county, city and county, township, school district, or other municipal corporation, shall ever make an appropriation, or pay from any public fund whatever, or grant anything to or in aid of any religious sect, church, creed, or sectarian purpose, or help to support or sustain any school, college, university, hospital, or other institution controlled by any religious creed, church, or sectarian denomination whatever; nor shall any grant or donation of personal property or real estate ever be made by the state, or any city, city and county, town, or other municipal corporation for any religious creed, church, or sectarian purpose whatever”. The City will accept applications for grants of these City public funds from religious schools, but will have language in the grant agreements to address the possibility and consequences of legal challenges and new court decisions on this and related topics. ** Future Grant Opportunities If you are interested in remaining up-to-date on available grants from the City of Rancho Cordova, click here to sign up for the Grants Interest List. A separate call for programming opportunities with the Rancho Cordova Youth Center is anticipated later in 2026. The list is also used to advertise separate art programs when funds are available. Ongoing Grant Opportunity The City of Rancho Cordova offers a microgrant opportunity. Learn more about those grants online.
Is this your first time
applying for grant
funding from the City
of Rancho Cordova?
As a first-time
applicant, Community
Enhancement &
Investment Fund
(CEIF) staff will
contact you to
discuss your project
and grant application
process.
Yes: First Time Applicant
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
1 - Project/Program Information Note: You can add a collaborator to this form to assist you in completing this application! A collaborator can help you complete this form by filling in fields for you, although only you can submit this form. You can add a collaborator by navigating to the top of the form and clicking on the 'Manage Collaborators' button. Simply enter their email address and click 'invite' to invite them as a collaborator. If you need further assistance, you may consult this Help article for more information.
Project/Program
Name. Assign a
project name to your
project/program.
My Musical Village: Rancho Cordova Community Music Initiative Which category does
your Project/Program
align with?
Arts, Culture, History, & Entertainment
Provide a
Project/Program
Synopsis
My Musical Village connects Rancho Cordova families through joyful music experiences. The program provides early childhood music classes, familyfriendly concerts with local musicians, and workshops for caregivers and educators. These activities support child development, strengthen community connections, and create accessible opportunities for families to engage with live music.
Provide a
Project/Program
Description
My Musical Village is a community centered music program designed to connect Rancho Cordova families through joyful musical experiences while supporting early childhood development, local musicians, and local businesses.
The program provides accessible opportunities for families with young children to experience music as a tool for learning, connection, and community engagement. Through developmentally informed music classes, community music gatherings, and family friendly concerts, My Musical Village creates welcoming environments where children and caregivers can participate in shared music making experiences.
Programming will include early childhood music classes hosted at family centered businesses and community spaces throughout Rancho Cordova.
These classes help activate local venues while introducing families to businesses that serve the community.
The program will also offer family friendly live music events featuring local musicians performing accessible sets designed for children and caregivers to enjoy together.
Additional workshops will be offered for parents, educators, and childcare providers to provide practical tools for using music and movement to support children’s emotional regulation, creativity, and social development.
By partnering with local businesses, musicians, and community organizations, My Musical Village strengthens community pride while expanding access to arts education for young children.
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
Tell us about your
Project/Program
Team
Ariel Elliott – Founder & Program Facilitator
Ariel Elliott is an early childhood educator, music teacher, and behavioral care specialist with over fifteen years of experience creating playful, developmentally informed learning environments for children and families.
Through My Musical Village, Ariel designs and facilitates music programs that integrate rhythm, movement, and community connection to support early childhood development.
Community partnerships may include local businesses, musicians, and family-centered organizations within Rancho Cordova.
Provide your
Project/Program
Goals
Goal 1 – Expand access to early childhood arts programming Provide accessible music and movement experiences for Rancho Cordova families by hosting 30–40 music classes and community sessions during the program year.
Goal 2 – Strengthen community connection through music
Create welcoming shared music experiences for families by facilitating multiple community gatherings and family-friendly music events that encourage participation and interaction.
Goal 3 – Support local musicians and businesses
Partner with Rancho Cordova businesses and musicians to host live music events and music classes that increase community engagement and support the local creative economy.
Goal 4 – Promote music as a developmental tool for families Provide caregivers and educators with practical music-based tools they can use at home or in classrooms to support emotional regulation, creativity, and learning.
Optional File Upload:
Provide any
additional records to
supplement your
program/project
application. Note:
Combine multiple
files in one pdf
before uploading.
2 - Funding & Costs
Funding Request -
Complete this
section with total
dollar amounts for
your
project/program's
costs
Funds are generally not intended to be used for deferred maintenance and ongoing operational needs. The funds are intended for enhancing and investing in the City of Rancho Cordova. If your project/program is awarded, the costs identified below would be reviewed and potentially open to modification during a contracting phase (if a grant is awarded by the City Council). If awarded, grant funds are not available until a contract is executed during Fiscal Year 2026-2027.
Total project/program
cost*
15400
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
What is the amount
of Community
Enhancement &
Investment Fund
grant monies
requested?
15400
Does your
project/program
involve construction
of any facilities or
improvements upon
any property?
No
What is the total cost
of personnel for your
project/program?
10200
What is the total cost
of supplies for your
project/program?
1200
What is the total cost
of transportation for
your
project/program?
0 What is the total cost
of equipment for your
project/program?
2000
What is the total cost
of any miscellaneous
expenses for your
project/program?
2000
Upload your project/program's budget as a .pdf file. Include the categories and their dollar amounts along with information about any other funding sources to demonstrate your project/program's total budget. Note, the sum of all categories must match the total project or program cost, or the amount requested of CEIF if there is no other funding source. Please clearly illustrate any matching funds or funding from other sources in your project/program budget, including in-kind sources. Note: Combine multiple files in one pdf before uploading. my_musical_village_outreach_budget.pdf
Has your
organization sought
or will seek other
funding for this
project/program?
Yes, actively seeking funding support or have secured additional funding support for this project/program.
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
Describe any funding
secured or being
sought for this
project/program.
Community partnerships, small program fees, and in-kind venue support from local businesses may contribute additional support for the program.
Please describe any
ongoing operations
and maintenance
costs beyond Fiscal
Year 2026/2027, if
applicable.
Some programming may continue beyond the grant period through community partnerships, program fees, and collaborations with local businesses and organizations that host family-centered programming.
Do you have
volunteer or in-kind
support for your
project? This could
include volunteers for
an activity/event that
is ongoing or a onetime experience.
No
Is this a single year
request or a request
for funding for
multiple years?
Single Year
Has your
project/program
received funding from
the Community
Enhancement &
Investment Fund
previously?
No
3 - Project/Program Details Grant applications are typically approved to occur between July 2026 through June 2027. What is your plan to complete this project/program within this time frame?
Anticipated Start
Date (July 1 is the
soonest available
start date)
7/1/2026
Anticipated End Date
(typically
projects/programs
end by June 30)
6/30/2027
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
Please describe your
project/program
schedule
The My Musical Village Community Music Initiative will take place between July 2026 and June 2027.
Programming will occur throughout the year and will include a combination of recurring music classes, community music gatherings, and family friendly live music events hosted at partner businesses and community spaces within Rancho Cordova.
Early childhood music and movement classes will be offered on a regular basis through collaborations with local family centered businesses and organizations. These classes provide structured music experiences for young children and their caregivers while introducing families to local community spaces.
Throughout the year, My Musical Village will also host family friendly live music events featuring local musicians performing sets designed to be accessible and engaging for children and caregivers. These events create opportunities for families to experience live music together while supporting local artists.
Workshops for parents, educators, and childcare providers may also be offered periodically to share practical tools for using music and movement to support children’s emotional regulation, creativity, and social development.
Program scheduling will remain flexible to allow for collaboration with community partners and to respond to interest from Rancho Cordova families and organizations.
What challenges do
you anticipate in your
project/program's
implementation?
What is your plan to
complete your
project/program
should those or other
challenges arise?
Possible challenges include coordinating schedules with partner venues, building consistent attendance while the program grows, and organizing logistics for community music events that involve musicians and families with young children.
To address these challenges, My Musical Village will collaborate closely with partner businesses and community organizations to plan programming well in advance. Events will be promoted through local community groups, social media, and partnerships with family-serving organizations in Rancho Cordova.
Programming formats are intentionally flexible so that events can adapt to different group sizes while still providing engaging musical experiences for participating families.
How many individuals
does your
project/program
serve?
600+
How many Rancho
Cordova residents
does your
project/program
serve?
450+
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
Provide the zip code
for your
project/program's
primary location.
95670
If your
project/program
takes place at
multiple locations,
please list other or
secondary locations.
Address is for home offices. Programming may take place at multiple partner businesses and community spaces throughout Rancho Cordova that host family-centered programming and community events.
Third Party Letters of
Support (Note:
Combine multiple
files in one pdf
before uploading)
Does your
project/program
involve one of
Rancho Cordova's
school districts?
No
Does your
project/program
involve the Cordova
Recreation & Park
District?
Yes
Is the
project/program
requesting facility
use only or is this a
request to partner
with the Cordova
Recreation & Park
District?
Facility Use Only. Visit Cordova Recreation & Park District's website for facility use information.
Please select one or
more of the Cordova
Recreation & Park
District facilities
which your
project/program will
involve:
Federspiel Park
Have you already
discussed your
project/program with
staff at the Cordova
Recreation & Park
District?
No
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
Internal Form
Score n/a
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
My Musical Village – Rancho Cordova Community
Music Initiative
Program Budget (July 2026 – June 2027)
This budget supports approximately 36 community music sessions and 2 family-friendly community concerts in Rancho Cordova. Costs include program facilitation, musician stipends, supplies, equipment, insurance, venue support, and community outreach.
Detailed Budget Breakdown
Category Line Item Calculation Amount (USD)
Personnel Community Music Class Facilitation 36 sessions × $150 $5,400 Personnel Program Planning & Coordination Scheduling, curriculum, outreach $2,000 Personnel Event Facilitation 2 concerts × $250 $500
Personnel Local Musician Stipends 2 concerts × $400 $800 Personnel Program Administration Grant reporting & coordination $1,500 Supplies Music Class Materials Scarves, rhythm instruments, props $800 Supplies Event & Craft Supplies Community music event materials $400 Equipment Portable PA System & Microphones Sound equipment for events $2,000 Miscellaneous General Liability Insurance Annual policy $700 Miscellaneous Venue Honorariums Partner venue support $400 Miscellaneous Marketing & Printing Flyers, outreach materials $900 TOTAL $15,400
Funding Summary
Funding Source Amount (USD)
Community Enhancement & Investment Fund Request $15,400 TOTAL PROJECT COST $15,400
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
5. Application
Withdrawn
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
Thank you for your interest in applying to the City of Rancho Cordova's Community Enhancement & Investment Fund. Applications are open from February 9, 2026, to March 13, 2026, Noon (12:00 p.m.) with a specific deadline of March 6th Noon (12:00 p.m.) for certain applications**. Before you begin, please read the notes about deadlines and certain types of grant applications/grants below. **School/Park Application Deadline **Note that projects or programs involving a park or school district have a deadline of March 6 Noon (12:00 p.m.) to allow for the third-party endorsement process by the grant deadline.** A Note about Religious Schools and the Application/Grant Process **Note for grant applications from religious schools. The United States Supreme Court has recently ruled in part that:
“denying a generally available benefit [from government] solely on account of religious identity imposes a penalty on the free exercise of religion that can be justified only by a state interest of the highest order.” The City is of the opinion that not all grants to religious schools are prohibited under this and other similar rulings. However, these United States Supreme Court decisions remain in conflict with a section of the California State Constitution that says: “[n]either the Legislature, nor any county, city and county, township, school district, or other municipal corporation, shall ever make an appropriation, or pay from any public fund whatever, or grant anything to or in aid of any religious sect, church, creed, or sectarian purpose, or help to support or sustain any school, college, university, hospital, or other institution controlled by any religious creed, church, or sectarian denomination whatever; nor shall any grant or donation of personal property or real estate ever be made by the state, or any city, city and county, town, or other municipal corporation for any religious creed, church, or sectarian purpose whatever”. The City will accept applications for grants of these City public funds from religious schools, but will have language in the grant agreements to address the possibility and consequences of legal challenges and new court decisions on this and related topics. ** Future Grant Opportunities If you are interested in remaining up-to-date on available grants from the City of Rancho Cordova, click here to sign up for the Grants Interest List. A separate call for programming opportunities with the Rancho Cordova Youth Center is anticipated later in 2026. The list is also used to advertise separate art programs when funds are available. Ongoing Grant Opportunity The City of Rancho Cordova offers a microgrant opportunity. Learn more about those grants online.
Is this your first time
applying for grant
funding from the City
of Rancho Cordova?
As a first-time
applicant, Community
Enhancement &
Investment Fund
(CEIF) staff will
contact you to
discuss your project
and grant application
process.
No: Not a First Time Applicant
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
1 - Project/Program Information Note: You can add a collaborator to this form to assist you in completing this application! A collaborator can help you complete this form by filling in fields for you, although only you can submit this form. You can add a collaborator by navigating to the top of the form and clicking on the 'Manage Collaborators' button. Simply enter their email address and click 'invite' to invite them as a collaborator. If you need further assistance, you may consult this Help article for more information.
Project/Program
Name. Assign a
project name to your
project/program.
Creative Wellness Series: Healing Through Art, Music and Mindfulness Meditation
Which category does
your Project/Program
align with?
Arts, Culture, History, & Entertainment
Provide a
Project/Program
Synopsis
Creative Wellness Series: Healing Through Art, Music and Mindfulness Meditation expands Ri-Nu Imagination’s proven Healing Through the Arts program by integrating visual arts, healing through music, and mindfulness meditation. Free, weekly, art workshops promote emotional wellbeing, community connection, and accessible creative healing for Rancho Cordova residents.
Provide a
Project/Program
Description
Ri-Nu Imagination Community Arts Center proposes the Creative Wellness Series: Healing Through Art, Music & Mindfulness, an expanded community-based wellness program building on last year’s successful CEIF-funded Healing Through the Arts initiative. This program provides free, creative wellness workshops for Rancho Cordova residents, integrating visual arts, healing through music, and mindfulness meditation to support emotional wellbeing, reduce social isolation, and strengthen community connection.
During the previous funding cycle, Ri-Nu Imagination delivered weekly Healing Through the Arts workshops, serving residents experiencing grief, recovery, stress, and life transitions. Participant feedback demonstrated increased emotional regulation, reduced isolation, and a stronger sense of belonging. Based on this success and growing community demand, Ri-Nu is expanding the program to include healing through music, mindfulness practices, and additional weekly sessions, creating a more holistic Creative Wellness Series.
The program will offer approximately 70–90 workshops annually, including visual art sessions, music-based healing experiences, and mindfulness integration. Workshops are facilitated by local teaching artists and wellness practitioners using inclusive, non-clinical approaches that welcome participants regardless of artistic experience. Activities include guided painting and mandala creation, rhythm and sound exploration, meditation, and reflective sharing. Each session emphasizes accessibility, creative expression, and connection in a supportive environment.
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
Healing Through Music is a new component this year, providing participants with opportunities to engage in rhythm, sound, and collaborative music experiences that support stress reduction and nervous system regulation.
Mindfulness meditation is also newly incorporated, offering grounding techniques that complement the creative process and promote mental clarity. Together, these modalities serve residents who may struggle with traditional talk-based supports, offering alternative pathways to wellness.
The Creative Wellness Series directly aligns with Rancho Cordova’s Community Enhancement & Investment Fund priorities by strengthening community wellbeing, increasing access to cultural programming, supporting local artists, and activating shared community spaces. The program is free to participants and intentionally designed to remove barriers to engagement. Ri-Nu provides art supplies, musical instruments, and participant support such as water and light refreshments, ensuring equitable access for individuals with limited financial resources.
Community benefit is central to this project. The program serves adults and seniors navigating grief, recovery, loneliness, and stress, while also welcoming caregivers and community members seeking connection. By creating consistent weekly programming, Ri-Nu offers a reliable gathering space that fosters relationships across cultures and life experiences. The Creative Wellness Series strengthens Rancho Cordova’s social fabric by bringing residents together through creativity, shared experience, and mutual support.
Funding from CEIF will support teaching artist stipends, program coordination, supplies, musical instruments, insurance coverage, outreach, and documentation. A part-time program coordinator will manage scheduling, community outreach, reporting, and partnerships, ensuring program continuity and accountability. Local artists and facilitators are compensated for their work, contributing to the creative economy while modeling pathways for artistic leadership within the community.
Ri-Nu Imagination leverages CEIF investment through in-kind contributions including studio space, volunteer support, and administrative oversight. The organization also collaborates with community partners and healthcareadjacent organizations to reach residents who benefit most from creative wellness programming. Program success will be measured through attendance tracking, participant feedback, and qualitative outcomes such as reduced isolation and increased sense of connection.
By expanding from a single-modality arts program into a multi-disciplinary ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
Creative Wellness Series, Ri-Nu Imagination is building sustainable creative infrastructure that supports both individual healing and community resilience. CEIF funding enables this evolution, transforming a proven program into a comprehensive wellness initiative that enhances quality of life, supports local artists, and strengthens Rancho Cordova as a vibrant, connected community.
Tell us about your
Project/Program
Team
The Creative Wellness Series is developed and delivered by Ri-Nu Imagination Community Arts Center under the leadership of Executive Director Anu Aaltonen-Bond, with facilitation by local teaching artists and wellness practitioners. Ri-Nu brings extensive experience in communitybased Healing Through the Arts programming, creative workshops, and collaborative partnerships. Anu provides program oversight, coordination, and fiscal management, drawing on her background in healthcare administration and trauma-informed care. Teaching artists lead visual art, music, and mindfulness sessions, while Ri-Nu coordinates outreach, supplies, accessibility, and evaluation to ensure consistent, high-quality programming for Rancho Cordova residents.
Provide your
Project/Program
Goals
The primary goal of the Creative Wellness Series: Healing Through Art, Music & Mindfulness is to improve emotional wellbeing and strengthen community connection among Rancho Cordova residents through accessible, trauma-informed creative programming.
Goal 1: Expand access to creative wellness opportunities.
Ri-Nu Imagination will provide consistent, free weekly workshops integrating visual art, healing through music, and mindfulness meditation.
Metrics:
70–90 workshops delivered annually
Number of participants served per session
Attendance consistency and repeat participation
Goal 2: Support emotional wellbeing and reduce social isolation.
Workshops are designed to promote stress reduction, emotional regulation, and a sense of belonging through creative expression and shared experience.
Metrics:
Participant feedback collected through brief surveys and informal reflection
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
Qualitative indicators such as reported stress reduction, increased connection, and participant testimonials
Observed engagement and participation during sessions
Goal 3: Support local artists and creative professionals.
The program employs local teaching artists and facilitators, ensuring fair compensation and professional opportunities within Rancho Cordova’s creative economy.
Metrics:
Number of artists contracted
Total artist stipends paid
Number of sessions facilitated by local artists
Goal 4: Strengthen organizational capacity and program sustainability.
Ri-Nu will ensure effective coordination, outreach, and reporting to sustain and grow the program.
Metrics:
Timely program delivery and reporting
Documentation through photos and attendance records
Successful partnerships and repeat community engagement To remain focused, the project team meets regularly to review schedules, participation data, and feedback. Clear roles, consistent documentation, and ongoing evaluation ensure the program remains responsive to community needs and aligned with CEIF objectives.
Optional File Upload: Provide any additional records to supplement your program/project application. Note: Combine multiple files in one pdf before uploading.
IMG_1453.JPG
IMG_1415_2.jpg
IMG_1461.JPG
IMG_1420.jpg
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
IMG_1470.JPG
IMG_1584.jpg
IMG_1260.jpg
IMG_1464.JPG
IMG_1514.jpg
Elizabeth_E_Letter.pdf
2 - Funding & Costs
Funding Request -
Complete this
section with total
dollar amounts for
your
project/program's
costs
Funds are generally not intended to be used for deferred maintenance and ongoing operational needs. The funds are intended for enhancing and investing in the City of Rancho Cordova. If your project/program is awarded, the costs identified below would be reviewed and potentially open to modification during a contracting phase (if a grant is awarded by the City Council). If awarded, grant funds are not available until a contract is executed during Fiscal Year 2026-2027.
Total project/program
cost*
60000
What is the amount
of Community
Enhancement &
Investment Fund
grant monies
requested?
50000
Does your
project/program
involve construction
of any facilities or
improvements upon
any property?
No
What is the total cost
of personnel for your
project/program?
30000
What is the total cost
of supplies for your
project/program?
8000
What is the total cost
of transportation for
your
project/program?
2000
What is the total cost
of equipment for your
project/program?
6000
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
What is the total cost
of any miscellaneous
expenses for your
project/program?
4000
Upload your project/program's budget as a .pdf file. Include the categories and their dollar amounts along with information about any other funding sources to demonstrate your project/program's total budget. Note, the sum of all categories must match the total project or program cost, or the amount requested of CEIF if there is no other funding source. Please clearly illustrate any matching funds or funding from other sources in your project/program budget, including in-kind sources. Note: Combine multiple files in one pdf before uploading. 2027_Budget.pdf
Has your
organization sought
or will seek other
funding for this
project/program?
Yes, actively seeking funding support or have secured additional funding support for this project/program.
Describe any funding
secured or being
sought for this
project/program.
Ri-Nu Imagination maintains a diversified funding model built on multiple financial pillars including grants, earned revenue through arts and creative wellness programming, individual giving, community sponsorships, and fundraising efforts. This multi-faceted approach strengthens organizational resilience while ensuring programs remain accessible to Rancho Cordova residents. Ri-Nu also leverages in-kind support including studio space, volunteer engagement, administrative leadership, and internship partnerships with CSU Sacramento and local work project programs to support workforce development and organizational capacity.
Ri-Nu is guided by an active board and advisors with expertise in nonprofit leadership, marketing, small business development, and community engagement. Board members and advisors include visual artists, musicians, and therapists whose professional experience directly informs program design, outreach, and evaluation. This collaborative governance structure supports fiscal accountability, program effectiveness, and longterm community impact, ensuring CEIF investment is leveraged within a broader, sustainable framework.
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
Please describe any
ongoing operations
and maintenance
costs beyond Fiscal
Year 2026/2027, if
applicable.
Ri-Nu Imagination intends for the Healing Through the Arts and Music Programming to continue as a sustainable community offering beyond the 2026–2027 grant period. Ongoing workshop costs will primarily include teaching artist stipends, art and music supplies, minor equipment maintenance or replacement, insurance, and program coordination.
Many of the equipment purchases funded through this grant—such as sound equipment, microphones, and musical instruments—are durable items expected to serve the program for multiple years, significantly reducing long-term costs. Additionally, Ri-Nu Imagination maintains strong partnerships with local artists, volunteers, and community organizations who contribute in-kind support such as studio space, volunteer hours, and donated supplies.
Future operational costs will be supported through a diversified funding strategy that includes additional grants, community sponsorships, small program fees when appropriate, donations, fundraising events, and continued in-kind support. This approach allows Ri-Nu Imagination to maintain and expand the Healing Through the Arts programming while keeping workshops accessible to underserved members of the Sacramento County community.
Overall, ongoing maintenance costs are expected to remain modest and manageable due to the program’s community partnership model and the durable equipment investments made through the CEIF funding.
Do you have
volunteer or in-kind
support for your
project? This could
include volunteers for
an activity/event that
is ongoing or a onetime experience.
Yes
Please share the
total dollar amount
for volunteer/in-kind
support using $34.79
as the national rate
for a volunteer hour.
Source: Value of
Volunteer Time
9748.2
Please provide a worksheet explaining your volunteer/in-kind contribution. You may upload a file in the following formats: CSV, DOC, DOCX, or PDF.
Volunteer_worksheet.pdf
Is this a single year
request or a request
for funding for
multiple years?
Single Year
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
Has your
project/program
received funding from
the Community
Enhancement &
Investment Fund
previously?
Yes
How many years has
your project/program
received funding from
the Community
Enhancement &
Investment Fund?
1 How much funding
has your organization
received from the
Community
Enhancement &
Investment Fund
through our
traditional grants (not
including
microgrants)?
15,000
3 - Project/Program Details Grant applications are typically approved to occur between July 2026 through June 2027. What is your plan to complete this project/program within this time frame?
Anticipated Start
Date (July 1 is the
soonest available
start date)
7/1/2026
Anticipated End Date
(typically
projects/programs
end by June 30)
6/30/2027
Please describe your
project/program
schedule
Healing Through the Arts & Music Programming
Project Schedule and Timeline (CEIF Grant)
Project Period: July 1, 2026 – June 30, 2027
July – August 2026: Program Preparation and Outreach
During the initial phase, Ri-Nu Imagination will finalize workshop schedules, confirm teaching
artists and music instructors, purchase art supplies and musical equipment, and conduct
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
outreach to Rancho Cordova residents and community partners. Outreach will include
collaboration with local nonprofits, wellness organizations, and community groups to identify
participants who would benefit from creative wellness programming.
September 2026 – May 2027: Program Implementation
The primary program phase will consist of weekly Healing Through the Arts and Music
workshops. Current Sunday workshops at Ri-Nu Imagination average approximately 25
participants, demonstrating strong community interest. Additional Saturday workshops are
anticipated to serve a similar number of participants, expanding access to the program. Over
the course of the program year, Ri-Nu Imagination anticipates offering approximately 40–45
workshops, serving an estimated 1,000–1,200 total participant visits. Workshops integrate visual arts, music exploration, rhythm and percussion activities, and collaborative creative
expression designed to support emotional wellness, stress reduction, and community
connection. Ri-Nu Imagination will also host community open mic and creative gathering
events where participants can share poetry, music, and spoken word.
Based on current
participation patterns, approximately 80–85% of participants are expected to be Rancho
Cordova residents, ensuring the program directly benefits the local community.
Research from organizations such as the World Health Organization and the National
Endowment for the Arts demonstrates that participation in arts programs can significantly
improve mental health by reducing stress, anxiety, and social isolation while strengthening
emotional resilience and community connection.
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
June 2027: Program Culmination and Evaluation
The final phase will include a community showcase and celebration event where participants
may share artwork and music created during the program. Ri-Nu Imagination will also
complete program evaluation, collect participant feedback, and prepare final reporting
documentation
Music Partnerships Supporting Healing Through Music
Ri-Nu Imagination collaborates with a network of local musicians and music advocates to support its Healing Through Music workshops, which use music as a tool for emotional wellness, creative expression, and community connection. Key partners include Gary Avila of The Foundry, who helps connect local musicians and performance opportunities; Maude Gilman of Musiclandria, a regional music advocate who brings extensive artist networks and community engagement; and Ri-Nu Imagination board members Ryan Thomas Nance and Casey Zacharias, both Board Members and musicians who help guide music programming and workshop development. Outreach to Rancho Cordova musicians for Instruction:
priority.
Together, these partnerships create a strong community music ecosystem that allows Ri-Nu Imagination to offer artist-led workshops where participants explore rhythm, songwriting, and collaborative music-making as pathways to healing, confidence, and connection. Through these collaborations, the organization expands access to creative wellness programming and strengthens the role of music as a powerful tool for personal and community healing.
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
What challenges do
you anticipate in your
project/program's
implementation?
What is your plan to
complete your
project/program
should those or other
challenges arise?
Ri-Nu Imagination recognizes that community-based programming may encounter challenges related to participant scheduling, resource availability, and maintaining consistent engagement over the course of a year-long program. Because the Healing Through the Arts and Music Programming serves a diverse community with varying schedules and life circumstances, workshop attendance may fluctuate throughout the year.
To address this, Ri-Nu Imagination already offers workshops on multiple days each week, including Tuesday, Saturday, and Sunday sessions, which are part of the organization’s current programming schedule. These multiple offerings allow participants greater flexibility to attend workshops based on their availability and have already demonstrated strong community participation. Maintaining this schedule will help ensure consistent access and participation throughout the project period.
Another potential challenge is the cost and availability of art supplies and musical equipment. To address this, Ri-Nu Imagination will purchase essential materials in advance and supplement supplies through donated materials and community contributions. The organization maintains strong relationships with local artists, volunteers, and community supporters who regularly contribute supplies and in-kind support.
Maintaining consistent teaching artist availability may also present scheduling challenges. Ri-Nu Imagination works with a network of experienced local artists and musicians who can rotate workshop facilitation when necessary, ensuring continuity of programming.
As with any community program, unexpected operational challenges may arise. Ri-Nu Imagination’s leadership and volunteer team will regularly monitor participation, outreach efforts, and program logistics and will adjust workshop scheduling or programming activities as needed to ensure the program remains accessible and successful.
Because the Healing Through the Arts workshops are already an established part of Ri-Nu Imagination’s programming, the organization has the experience, partnerships, and community engagement necessary to successfully implement and sustain the program throughout the grant period.
How many individuals
does your
project/program
serve?
1400 Programming includes 3–4 workshops per month, each serving approximately 25 participants, resulting in approximately 1,050 workshop participant visits annually. In addition, the program will host approximately 8 open mic community events, serving about 160 participants, and an annual art and music showcase event with approximately 200 attendees.) ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
How many Rancho
Cordova residents
does your
project/program
serve?
1190 ( based on current participation patterns, approximately 85% of participants are Rancho Cordova residents)
4 - Project/Program Location
Address Verification If you need to check if your project is in Rancho Cordova, type in your program/project's location in the Assessor Parcel Viewer:
https://assessorparcelviewer.saccounty.gov/jsviewer/assessor.html School and park
related applications
are due before Noon
(12:00 p.m.) on
March 6, 2026, to
allow for the
endorsement
process.
Please note that projects or programs that are proposed on property owned or operated by outside agencies or a private party will require coordination with and potentially approvals from outside agencies, organizations, and/or the private party. Include whether you have received a letter of support for the project/program from the property owner. Upload any letters of support with your application. City staff will verify third-party permits have been discussed. In your planning discussions, be sure to discuss any necessary insurance or volunteer requirements that may increase budget costs. School Sites If your project/program is intended to operate at a public K-12 school site, your application is due by March 6 at Noon (12:00 p.m.). City staff will work with the school districts to confirm an endorsement for your project/program. It’s the applicant’s responsibility to communicate with school site and district representatives before applying so there is clarity during the endorsement process. Districts will only consider endorsement for applications submitted to the Community Enhancement & Investment Fund by the March 6 at Noon (12:00 p.m.). deadline. Each participating school superintendent reserves the right to withhold their endorsement of a project/program. Parks If your project/program is intended to operate at a park or community center site, your application is due by the March 6 at Noon (12:00 p.m.). deadline. City staff will work with the Cordova Recreation & Park District to confirm an endorsement for your project/program. It’s the applicant’s responsibility to communicate with district representatives before applying so there is clarity during the endorsement process. A special use permit application is required for any program or event planned at a CRPD facility. The special use application can be found at the CRPD website:
https://www.cordovarpd.gov/. CRPD will only consider endorsement for applications submitted to the Community Enhancement & Investment Fund by the March 6 at Noon (12:00 p.m.). deadline. The Cordova Recreation & Park District reserves the right to withhold their endorsement of a project/program. Below is the list of staff to communicate with at school and park organizations: Folsom Cordova Unified School District:
[email protected] Cordova Recreation & Park District:
[email protected] Elk Grove Unified School District:
[email protected] Sacramento City Unified School District: Tuan[email protected] for Winn and Carver and [email protected] for Lincoln.
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
Primary street
address of
project/program
9719 Lincoln Village Drive, Suite 500
List the city location
of the
project/program.
Sacramento
Select State CA
Provide the zip code
for your
project/program's
primary location.
95827
If your
project/program
takes place at
multiple locations,
please list other or
secondary locations.
n/a
Third Party Letters of Support (Note: Combine multiple files in one pdf before uploading) Letters_Recommendation.pdf
Does your
project/program
involve one of
Rancho Cordova's
school districts?
No
Does your
project/program
involve the Cordova
Recreation & Park
District?
No
5 - Applicant Information
Name Anu
Aaltonen Bond
Is this
project/program on
behalf of an
organization?
Yes
What is the name of
your organization?
Ri-Nu Imagination
What is your title
and/or role at your
organization?
CEO/Founder
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
Provide contact
phone number:
Provide contact
email:
Are you the primary
point of contact on
this project/program?
Yes
If your
project/program was
awarded the
requested funds, are
you authorized to
sign the contract for
your organization?
Yes, I would be the one to sign the contract
By checking here, I
confirm that I am
aware that my
application materials
will become public
record.
checked
Thank you for applying to the Community Enhancement & Investment Fund Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Grant Cycle. Applicants will receive an automated response through the grant portal. Community Enhancement & Investment Fund (CEIF) Staff will follow up with any questions regarding your Fiscal Year 2026-2027 application. For information about the next steps in the CEIF grant process, visit our website for more information. It is anticipated that applications will be reviewed by the City Council starting in April 2026 with adoption in June 2026. Should applicants be awarded by the City Council, funding would not be available to grantees until the start of Fiscal Year 2026-2027 and the completion of a contract. Please send an email to [email protected] with any questions or comments.
Internal Form
Score n/a
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
Ri-Nu Imagination
Healing Through the Arts & Music Programming
Community Enhancement Investment Fund (CEIF) Budget
Project Period: July 2026 – June 2027
Total Project Cost: $60,000
CEIF Grant Request: $50,000
Matching / In-Kind Support: $10,000
Category CEIF Funds In-Kind Support Total
Personnel (Program
Director, Teaching
Artists, Music
Instructor)
$30,000 $5,000 $35,000
Supplies (art
materials, canvases,
paint, journals,
percussion
instruments)
$8,000 $2,000 $10,000
Transportation
(community outreach,
artist travel, supply
pickup)
$2,000 $500 $2,500
Equipment (sound
system,
microphones,
$6,000 $1,000 $7,000
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
keyboard, recording
equipment)
Miscellaneous
(insurance,
marketing, printing,
evaluation, events)
$4,000 $1,500 $5,500
TOTAL $50,000 $10,000 $60,000
This budget supports Ri-Nu Imagination’s Healing Through the Arts and Music Programming serving Rancho Cordova residents from July 2026 through June 2027. Programs include visual art workshops, music workshop sessions, and community performances designed to support emotional wellness, creative expression, and community connection. Personnel funds support teaching artists, music instructors, and program coordination. Supplies include visual art materials and musical instruments (others to be donated in-kind) used during workshops.
Equipment purchases support instruments, musician supplies and recording equipment for classes and events. Transportation covers artist travel and outreach.
Miscellaneous costs include insurance, marketing, printing, and program evaluation. Ri-Nu Imagination contributes $10,000 in in-kind support including donated studio/community space, volunteer administrative hours, and donated art materials/music supplies.
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
City of Rancho Cordova
To Whom It May Concern,
My name is Elizabeth and I wanted to share my personal experience with the Artists in Recovery class at Ri Nu Imagination. I attended this 12 week class this past August. This class came into my life at a time when I was struggling creatively, and it ended up helping me in ways I did not expect.
Before taking this class, I had been dealing with a long and frustrating creative block. For most of my life, I believed that my creativity only showed up during moments of chaos, when my emotions were intense or when my mind felt overloaded. When my life became quieter through recovery, it felt like that creative spark disappeared. I felt disconnected from a part of myself that once felt so natural.
Since my sobriety, I have struggled to create. It was not a lack of desire,but a feeling of not knowing how to reach that part of myself again. I worried that the creative version of me only existed in the past and that without chaos I might never find that spark again.
When I joined the class at Ri Nu Imagination, things began to shift for me, creatively. The room had an energy that felt warm, inspiring, and uplifting.
Being surrounded by other artists in recovery was motivating. It was exciting to see the different ideas that everyone brought to life. Watching others create made me want to create too. There was a sense of encouragement in the room and a great deal of inspiration.
Maria, who was leading the class helped guide us with prompts and she read to us as we created from the book “The Artist Way”. I felt a sense of peace in this class that I had not felt in a very long time. It helped me to see that art can come from peace just as much as it can come from chaos. It reminded me that creativity can grow in supportive environments, in shared experiences, and in moments where people lift each other up.
This class helped me reconnect with a part of myself I thought I had lost. It encouraged me to try new things such as painting, mixed media, and exploring different art mediums. It reminded me that creativity can rise from a peaceful place inside of myself I also want to mention how meaningful it was that the program was offered through a nonprofit at no cost. I did not have to worry about paying for the class or buying new supplies, which was a huge help. Many people in recovery are already struggling with their finances, and removing that burden allows others in recovery to focus on healing and artistic expression.
I sincerely hope that Ri Nu Imagination can continue receiving funding. I have seen how much this program helps people in recovery. Art brings people together. It allows us to express emotions we often cannot describe with words. It helps us heal, rebuild confidence, and feel connected again. This program has helped me, and I know it has helped many others find their spark.
Ri Nu Imagination is an amazing asset to the community. What they offer goes far beyond art. It provides hope, connection, and a place where people can rediscover themselves in a supportive and encouraging space.
Sincerely,
Elizabeth
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
Rancho Cordova Resident
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
[email protected]
www.rcmacc.org
10191 Mills Station Rd., Rancho Cordova, CA. 95827
To Whom It May Concern,
It is my sincere pleasure to write this letter of recommendation in support of Ri-Nu Imagination Community Arts Center and its founder and Executive Director, Anu Aaltonen-Bond.
As Director of The MACC, I have had the privilege of working alongside Anu for several years and witnessing firsthand her extraordinary dedication to building community through the arts. Anu brings a rare combination of creative vision, organizational leadership, and deep compassion to everything she does. Her work consistently centers people — especially those who are often underserved — and uses art as a bridge for healing, connection, and empowerment.
Ri-Nu Imagination has quickly become a meaningful creative hub in Rancho Cordova, offering accessible studio space, exhibitions, and community workshops that welcome artists of all backgrounds and skill levels. Through programs such as Healing Through the Arts, Ri-Nu provides safe, inclusive environments where individuals experiencing grief, recovery, trauma, or life transitions can express themselves creatively and find connection with others. These programs are thoughtfully designed and deeply impactful, helping participants regain confidence, process emotions, and build supportive relationships.
Anu’s leadership extends far beyond programming. She actively collaborates with local artists, nonprofits, healthcare providers, and community organizations to create partnerships that strengthen the cultural fabric of the city. Under her guidance, Ri-Nu has hosted community art shows, healing workshops, and creative gatherings that bring together diverse populations and foster a true sense of belonging. Her ability to mobilize volunteers, engage artists, and cultivate meaningful relationships reflects both her professionalism and her heartfelt commitment to service.
What stands out most about Anu is her integrity and perseverance. She leads with humility, creativity, and purpose, often investing her own time and resources to ensure programs remain accessible to the community. Her background in healthcare administration further informs her trauma-informed approach, ensuring that Ri-Nu’s offerings are not only artistic, but genuinely supportive of emotional and personal well-being.
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ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
Soroptimist International of Rancho Cordova/Gold RiverPO Box 1814 Rancho Cordova, CA 95741( | [email protected] https://soroptimistranchocordova.org/ February 10, 2026
To Whom It May Concern,
I am pleased to offer my wholehearted recommendation for Ri-Nu Imagination and its founder and director, Anu Aaltonen-Bond, in recognition of the extraordinary contributions the Community Art Center brings to our region.
Anu is an exceptional leader and dedicated professional who works tirelessly to support fellow nonprofits and community members. As President of Soroptimist International of Rancho Cordova/Gold River, I have had the pleasure of collaborating directly with her through community initiatives, workshops, and fundraising events hosted at Ri-Nu. These partnerships have benefited many individuals and organizations in meaningful ways. Soroptimist now hosts Paint & Sip events at Ri-Nu, for which we are deeply grateful; these have become highly successful fundraisers that also introduce new participants to the joy of creative expression.
Ri-Nu Imagination provides far more than art programming. It offers a welcoming, inclusive space where creativity becomes a pathway to healing, connection, and personal growth. Anu’s Healing Through the Arts workshops create meaningful opportunities for people experiencing grief, recovery, trauma, or life transitions to express themselves, build confidence, and form supportive relationships. I have personally hosted and attended workshops at Ri-Nu and have witnessed participants leave feeling uplifted, empowered, and inspired—myself included.
Anu leads with heart, integrity, and vision. She has created a vibrant creative hub in Rancho Cordova that strengthens community bonds while providing accessible opportunities for artistic expression. Ri-Nu Imagination’s exhibitions, workshops, and community gatherings foster a deep sense of belonging and elevate voices that might otherwise go unheard.
Ri-Nu Imagination is an invaluable asset to our community, and Anu Aaltonen-Bond’s leadership is central to its success. I wholeheartedly recommend Ri-Nu Imagination for funding consideration. Any organization would be fortunate to support such impactful, community-centered work.
Please feel free to contact me if you need any additional information.
Sincerely,
Ingrid RostenPresidentSoroptimist International of Rancho Cordova/Gold River ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
Volunteer / In-Kind Contribution Explanation
Ri-Nu Imagination benefits from the support of volunteers who assist with program coordination, workshop support, and community outreach activities related to the Healing Through the Arts and Music Programming.
For the July 2026 – June 2027 program period, Ri-Nu Imagination estimates 280 volunteer hours supporting the project. Using the Independent Sector national volunteer value rate of $34.79 per hour, the total estimated value of volunteer service equals $9,748.20.
These volunteer contributions include assistance from board members, community artists, and program volunteers who support workshop preparation, participant engagement, and event coordination.
The $9,748.20 volunteer contribution is included as in-kind support toward the overall project cost and demonstrates community investment in the success of Ri-Nu Imagination’s Healing Through the Arts and Music Programming.
Volunteer Worksheet:
Contribution Type Hours Hourly Rate Total Value
Program Support
Volunteers
120 $34.79 $4,174.80
Teaching Artist
Assistants
80 $34.79 $2,783.20
Board Member &
Administrative Support
50 $34.79 $1,739.50
Event & Community
Support
30 $34.79 $1,043.70
TOTAL 280 hours $34.79 $9,748.20
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Thank you for your interest in applying to the City of Rancho Cordova's Community Enhancement & Investment Fund. Applications are open from February 9, 2026, to March 13, 2026, Noon (12:00 p.m.) with a specific deadline of March 6th Noon (12:00 p.m.) for certain applications**. Before you begin, please read the notes about deadlines and certain types of grant applications/grants below. **School/Park Application Deadline **Note that projects or programs involving a park or school district have a deadline of March 6 Noon (12:00 p.m.) to allow for the third-party endorsement process by the grant deadline.** A Note about Religious Schools and the Application/Grant Process **Note for grant applications from religious schools. The United States Supreme Court has recently ruled in part that:
“denying a generally available benefit [from government] solely on account of religious identity imposes a penalty on the free exercise of religion that can be justified only by a state interest of the highest order.” The City is of the opinion that not all grants to religious schools are prohibited under this and other similar rulings. However, these United States Supreme Court decisions remain in conflict with a section of the California State Constitution that says: “[n]either the Legislature, nor any county, city and county, township, school district, or other municipal corporation, shall ever make an appropriation, or pay from any public fund whatever, or grant anything to or in aid of any religious sect, church, creed, or sectarian purpose, or help to support or sustain any school, college, university, hospital, or other institution controlled by any religious creed, church, or sectarian denomination whatever; nor shall any grant or donation of personal property or real estate ever be made by the state, or any city, city and county, town, or other municipal corporation for any religious creed, church, or sectarian purpose whatever”. The City will accept applications for grants of these City public funds from religious schools, but will have language in the grant agreements to address the possibility and consequences of legal challenges and new court decisions on this and related topics. ** Future Grant Opportunities If you are interested in remaining up-to-date on available grants from the City of Rancho Cordova, click here to sign up for the Grants Interest List. A separate call for programming opportunities with the Rancho Cordova Youth Center is anticipated later in 2026. The list is also used to advertise separate art programs when funds are available. Ongoing Grant Opportunity The City of Rancho Cordova offers a microgrant opportunity. Learn more about those grants online.
Is this your first time
applying for grant
funding from the City
of Rancho Cordova?
As a first-time
applicant, Community
Enhancement &
Investment Fund
(CEIF) staff will
contact you to
discuss your project
and grant application
process.
Yes: First Time Applicant
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
1 - Project/Program Information Note: You can add a collaborator to this form to assist you in completing this application! A collaborator can help you complete this form by filling in fields for you, although only you can submit this form. You can add a collaborator by navigating to the top of the form and clicking on the 'Manage Collaborators' button. Simply enter their email address and click 'invite' to invite them as a collaborator. If you need further assistance, you may consult this Help article for more information.
Project/Program
Name. Assign a
project name to your
project/program.
TE4TN: Theatrical Stage Lighting 2026
Which category does
your Project/Program
align with?
Arts, Culture, History, & Entertainment
Provide a
Project/Program
Synopsis
Acquire lighting equipment for use on traditional performance stages, and offer a workshop with national caliber theater lighting professional, to inspire Rancho Cordova youth interested in technical theater and enhance the experience of those who attend shows at the Mine Shaft in Rancho Cordova, including our signature event, Heartstoppers Haunts.
Provide a
Project/Program
Description
Background: Theater Education 4 Theater Nerds (TE4TN) is a Rancho Cordova-based 501(c)(3) community benefit theatrical education organization. Having produced its signature theatrical fundraiser, Heartstoppers Haunts, in and around Rancho since 2010, TE4TN achieved tax-exempt status in 2018, and the Heartstoppers event has only grown every year since with approximately 14,000 people attending its performances at the Mine Shaft in October 2025. A major aspect of that event, and the secret to TE4TN’s success, is our community volunteer and theater education programs, which operate year-round in the Mine Shaft facility.
For young people interested in the ‘behind the scenes’ aspects of theater production there are limited opportunities to learn the advanced techniques and practice skills necessary for a high-quality theatrical production.
Theater Education 4 Theater Nerds is one of the only theater organizations in the region that offers community members of any age - but especially youth - the opportunity to learn about technical theater (lights, sound, animatronics, special effects) and stage craft (costumes, scenery, props, makeup.) Most high school and childrens' community theater programs focus on the performing arts, and don't have opportunities for students to operate equipment, much less learn design, engineer tech scenarios or craft scenery.
For theatrical lighting specifically, while TE4TN has offered skills training around lighting equipment over the many years of Heartstoppers’ events, none of that equipment is designed to be used on traditional thrust stages, as that is not the type of productions TE4TN has done in the past.
However, in Spring 2025, TE4TN produced its first non-Heartstoppers related play at the Mine Shaft: a traditionally staged premiere of “She Has A Ticket To Ride,” a dark comedy that was well received by the Rancho ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
community. What that production made plain was the need for different lighting equipment in order to maintain the high production quality for which TE4TN has become known.
Grant Project Scope: In order to increase the capacity of the Mine Shaft facility for more theatrical productions, and to offer the best possible learning experience, TE4TN requires theatrical lighting equipment designed for traditional stages with which to teach and continue to expand its theatrical offerings to the Rancho Cordova community. TE4TN’s portion of the proceeds from the Heartstoppers event provides its annual education program budget and the seed money to build the next year’s fundraising event.There are no excess funds to purchase the necessary equipment all at once to ensure compatibility and training efficiency. To provide maximum usability in both production and training environments, the equipment needs to be mobile, weather-resistant (e.g. Theater in the Park,) recent technology, allow for design flexibility and a wide variety of infrastructure resources, as well as compatibility with TE4TN's existing light program boards and other equipment to leverage CEIF dollars.
Equipment: The equipment to be purchased includes two telescoping light poles with integrated stabilizing bases that can work at heights between 12 and 18 feet, allowing for both intimate indoor productions as well as larger outdoor stagings. The cross trusses are removable for maximum storage options. Blizzard TOUGHPAR Neo light units will serve as key front/defined color splashes, and the Blizzard Wash lights will keep symmetry with design and color output even at 100 feet distance to allow for maximum design flexibility, thus giving TE4TN students and partnering community groups a full-range of creative options. In addition, the package includes NewFeel 380W moving heads to provide high-intensity dynamic spot lighting. These powerful lights can be programmed to move on cue or follow the stage action, and they can also be used via manual remote control. The equipment wish list includes all of the cabling and power supplies needed, and all units are DMX controllable and power-linkable for a fully integrated – and interchangeable – system that is suitable for indoor and outdoor events. The project includes the purchase of specialized storage containers to maximize secure storage space at the Mine Shaft (when it’s not being used) and transportation safety for the equipment as it moves to its next use.
Tell us about your
Project/Program
Team
TE4TN President/Executive Director – Joel Watson: The original “theater nerd,” Joel started out in his high school’s theater program because he wanted to learn how to make cool effects with lights.
Combining his love of all things Halloween with theater tech and the detailed décor he grew up admiring at Disneyland, was a natural evolution.
After years of progressively complex and popular home haunts, Joel opened his first professional haunted theatrical production in 2007, “Heartstoppers Haunted House.”
see attachment "Project Team"
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
Provide your
Project/Program
Goals
The goals of the TE4TN: Theatrical Stage Lighting 2026 project are to purchase the indicated lighting equipment in time to be used for demonstration at the program kick-off: an advanced training workshop, free to the Rancho community, with a Broadway/national tour lighting designer.
Its first theatrical production use would be for the trainees to design and build full-function light shows for the early Spring ’27 Showcase, as well as for the late Spring ‘27 theatrical production of Hummingbird Theater Company, a Rancho Cordova-supported theater group utilizing the Mine Shaft facility. The equipment would then be available to enhance the 2027 Heartstoppers Haunt event and for other community groups that have events at the Mine Shaft.
Optional File Upload: Provide any additional records to supplement your program/project application. Note: Combine multiple files in one pdf before uploading. 2026AppATTACH-TE4TN_Project_Team.pdf
2 - Funding & Costs
Funding Request -
Complete this
section with total
dollar amounts for
your
project/program's
costs
Funds are generally not intended to be used for deferred maintenance and ongoing operational needs. The funds are intended for enhancing and investing in the City of Rancho Cordova. If your project/program is awarded, the costs identified below would be reviewed and potentially open to modification during a contracting phase (if a grant is awarded by the City Council). If awarded, grant funds are not available until a contract is executed during Fiscal Year 2026-2027.
Total project/program
cost*
42461
What is the amount
of Community
Enhancement &
Investment Fund
grant monies
requested?
29825
Does your
project/program
involve construction
of any facilities or
improvements upon
any property?
No
What is the total cost
of personnel for your
project/program?
2000
What is the total cost
of supplies for your
project/program?
0 ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
What is the total cost
of transportation for
your
project/program?
1500
What is the total cost
of equipment for your
project/program?
25825
What is the total cost
of any miscellaneous
expenses for your
project/program?
500
Upload your project/program's budget as a .pdf file. Include the categories and their dollar amounts along with information about any other funding sources to demonstrate your project/program's total budget. Note, the sum of all categories must match the total project or program cost, or the amount requested of CEIF if there is no other funding source. Please clearly illustrate any matching funds or funding from other sources in your project/program budget, including in-kind sources. Note: Combine multiple files in one pdf before uploading. 2026AppATTACH-TE4TN_ProjectBudget.pdf
Has your
organization sought
or will seek other
funding for this
project/program?
Yes, actively seeking funding support or have secured additional funding support for this project/program.
Describe any funding
secured or being
sought for this
project/program.
In addition to the valuable work our dedicated volunteers will do on behalf of the Kick Off workshop and the training of interested community members on the use and care of the equipment, TE4TN has budgeted for its employees to inspect and manage the equipment and the training program, as well as purchasing the containers to securely store the equipment at the Mine Shaft when not in use. Funding and sponsorships are also being sought to pay for additional industry expert workshop presenters and mentors in the areas of light board programming and operation, lighting design, and scenery projection to enhance the education offered around the requested equipment. These workshops are in addition to the 2026-27 planned educational classes on such topics as stage makeup, crafting props, set building, sound effects, etc., for which TE4TN’s part of the Heartstoppers’ revenues are used. It is hoped that the cumulative effects of this thorough education approach will help increase awareness around the performing arts in Rancho Cordova, encourage volunteerism for our artistic organizations, and raise the production levels of theater events locally.
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
Please describe any
ongoing operations
and maintenance
costs beyond Fiscal
Year 2026/2027, if
applicable.
Based on the operating life-span of TE4TN’s inventory of other theatrical equipment, thanks to TE4TN’s volunteers’ careful use and maintenance, it is anticipated that the light fixtures and cabling will have a five-year operating life after which they will need to be replaced or repaired. The stands and trusses will probably be functional for 10 years. TE4TN’s long term plan is to both secure future equipment grant funding and expand budgetary commitments to TE4TN’s ‘reserve for replacement’ account, so that it is fully funded and future equipment replacements and upgrades can be accomplished timely.
Do you have
volunteer or in-kind
support for your
project? This could
include volunteers for
an activity/event that
is ongoing or a onetime experience.
Yes
Please share the
total dollar amount
for volunteer/in-kind
support using $34.79
as the national rate
for a volunteer hour.
Source: Value of
Volunteer Time
6611
Please provide a worksheet explaining your volunteer/in-kind contribution. You may upload a file in the following formats: CSV, DOC, DOCX, or PDF.
ATTACHMENT-TE4TN_Volunteer.pdf
Is this a single year
request or a request
for funding for
multiple years?
Single Year
Has your
project/program
received funding from
the Community
Enhancement &
Investment Fund
previously?
No
3 - Project/Program Details Grant applications are typically approved to occur between July 2026 through June 2027. What is your plan to complete this project/program within this time frame?
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
Anticipated Start
Date (July 1 is the
soonest available
start date)
9/1/2026
Anticipated End Date
(typically
projects/programs
end by June 30)
6/30/2027
Please describe your
project/program
schedule
Sept 1, 2026 – June 30, 2027
Sept 2026 - Receive grant award contract & funding; promote Senior Student Showcase program and call for entries
Oct 2026 – run Heartstoppers Haunts fundraising event; price equipment; accept applications for Senior Student Showcase program; secure kick off speaker; select Senior Student Showcase participants
Nov 2026 – finalize purchases & sign speaker contract; begin Senior Student meetings with mentors
Jan. 2027 – receive equipment & test; continue Senior Student meetings with mentors (first design deadlines)
Feb. 2027 – finish planning for kick-off event & Showcase promotion plan; March 2027 – lighting workshop series kick off event; Senior Student Showcase performances (3/26-/2027-4/3/2027)
April 2027 – prep for Hummingbird Theater Co. production & equipment use May 2027 – Hummingbird performances
June 2027 – Second lighting workshop & equipment pack up What challenges do
you anticipate in your
project/program's
implementation?
What is your plan to
complete your
project/program
should those or other
challenges arise?
Challenge 1 – most of this equipment is imported and the current tariff environment could change thereby increasing costs beyond the budget. If that becomes the case, there are a few solutions – not the least of which is a combination of all of them: a.) if we think the prices will go down in the near term (30-60 days,) we just wait to make our purchases; b.) buy fewer pieces or different brands so long as the objective of a workable lighting system is achieved; c.) depending on revenues from the 2026 Heartstoppers event, TE4TN could contribute a few more dollars to make up the difference if it doesn’t jeopardize the build budget for the 2027 event and/or the ongoing educational program objectives for the 2027 fiscal year.
Challenge 2 – Unable to secure space or desired caliber of speaker for kickoff event at desired time; Solutions are to try other venues, move the date, try other contacts or some combination of the three.
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
How many individuals
does your
project/program
serve?
The kick-off workshops and the rest of the lighting workshop series could reach over 200 individuals, while the hands-on advanced training will be limited in 2027 to six senior students (more in subsequent years); the impact of improved theatrical lighting for the benefit of audiences in 2027 alone is potentially over 1,000 people.
How many Rancho
Cordova residents
does your
project/program
serve?
While it is the intention of the program to market all events to residents of Rancho Cordova first, with preferences for Rancho students, etc., ultimately the objective is to reach as many people as possible for the workshops and to sell tickets to performances to support ongoing programming. Based on the volunteer participation in the Heartstoppers fundraising event, we would expect approximately 40 percent of the program participation numbers noted above to be from Rancho Cordova.
Heartstoppers Haunts attracts patrons from all over Northern California (and a few from Southern California,) but the Showcase and Hummingbird Theater’s performances will only pull from the greater Sacramento area, including Rancho Cordova.
4 - Project/Program Location
Address Verification If you need to check if your project is in Rancho Cordova, type in your program/project's location in the Assessor Parcel Viewer:
https://assessorparcelviewer.saccounty.gov/jsviewer/assessor.html ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
School and park
related applications
are due before Noon
(12:00 p.m.) on
March 6, 2026, to
allow for the
endorsement
process.
Please note that projects or programs that are proposed on property owned or operated by outside agencies or a private party will require coordination with and potentially approvals from outside agencies, organizations, and/or the private party. Include whether you have received a letter of support for the project/program from the property owner. Upload any letters of support with your application. City staff will verify third-party permits have been discussed. In your planning discussions, be sure to discuss any necessary insurance or volunteer requirements that may increase budget costs. School Sites If your project/program is intended to operate at a public K-12 school site, your application is due by March 6 at Noon (12:00 p.m.). City staff will work with the school districts to confirm an endorsement for your project/program. It’s the applicant’s responsibility to communicate with school site and district representatives before applying so there is clarity during the endorsement process. Districts will only consider endorsement for applications submitted to the Community Enhancement & Investment Fund by the March 6 at Noon (12:00 p.m.). deadline. Each participating school superintendent reserves the right to withhold their endorsement of a project/program. Parks If your project/program is intended to operate at a park or community center site, your application is due by the March 6 at Noon (12:00 p.m.). deadline. City staff will work with the Cordova Recreation & Park District to confirm an endorsement for your project/program. It’s the applicant’s responsibility to communicate with district representatives before applying so there is clarity during the endorsement process. A special use permit application is required for any program or event planned at a CRPD facility. The special use application can be found at the CRPD website:
https://www.cordovarpd.gov/. CRPD will only consider endorsement for applications submitted to the Community Enhancement & Investment Fund by the March 6 at Noon (12:00 p.m.). deadline. The Cordova Recreation & Park District reserves the right to withhold their endorsement of a project/program. Below is the list of staff to communicate with at school and park organizations: Folsom Cordova Unified School District:
[email protected] Cordova Recreation & Park District:
[email protected] Elk Grove Unified School District:
[email protected] Sacramento City Unified School District: Tuan[email protected] for Winn and Carver and [email protected] for Lincoln.
Primary street
address of
project/program
2300 Mine Shaft Lane
List the city location
of the
project/program.
Rancho Cordova
Select State CA
Provide the zip code
for your
project/program's
primary location.
95742
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Score n/a
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CEIF PROGRAM APPLICATION – TE4TN
ATTACHMENT – Project Volunteers
TE4TN’s dedicated volunteers are all theater lovers and many are members of Rancho Cordova’s community. It is anticipated that at least ten of our volunteer group will assist with the Kick Off workshop by doing community promotions, outreach to schools in Rancho to encourage them to come to the schools-only Friday session with the workshop presenter, and to assist at the Saturday workshop itself, with set up/take down, directing students, distributing materials, etc.
The estimates for this level of engagement are 10 persons over many days, totaling approx. 150 hours. Later in the 2026-27 term, volunteer educators will be working with our technical theater students to teach them how to use the new equipment and those estimates are five individuals putting in eight hours each to ensure the equipment is used correctly and safely.
Volunteer Lighting Educator hours value – 2026-27 40 34.79 1,392.00 Workshop Volunteer hours value (promotion, hosting,
coordination)
150 34.79 5,219.00
SUBTOTAL 2026-27 … VOLUNTEERS 6,611.00
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
Cordova Community Council Foundation * 2729 Prospect Park Dr. * Suite 117 * Rancho Cordova, CA 95670 (916) 273-5707 * cordovacouncil.org
Feb. 26, 2026
City of Rancho Cordova
Community Enhancement & Investment Fund Grant Program
Rancho Cordova, CA
Dear CEIF Team:
On behalf of the Cordova Community Council (CCC), I am delighted to endorse and strongly urge approval of Theater Education for Theater Nerds (TE4TN)’s application to purchase theatrical lighting equipment to enhance community performances in Rancho Cordova.
CCC has proudly partnered with TE4TN since 2013, as they created and built Heartstoppers Haunted House, now the Sacramento region’s leading Halloween haunt attraction. Through this signature event, TE4TN has cultivated a powerful sense of belonging for hundreds of youth and adult volunteers while helping establish Rancho Cordova as a true Halloween-season destination. Each year, more than 14,000 visitors experience Heartstoppers, with ticket revenue supporting the charitable missions of both TE4TN and the Cordova Community Council.
Beyond the annual haunt, TE4TN demonstrates an unwavering commitment to quality and community engagement. They are a fan favorite in the Rancho Cordova Fourth of July Parade and have expanded their presence by participating in our annual “Date Night” volunteer recruitment event. They generously donate complimentary tickets to support local fundraisers and intentionally create space within their volunteer ranks for a broad and diverse community of theater enthusiasts of all ages.
In recent years, TE4TN has expanded its impact even further. They now offer hands-on training classes for aspiring “haunters” and stage artists, covering essential skills such as set construction, costuming, theatrical makeup, and technical production. For the past two years, they have transformed the Mine Shaft property— home to Heartstoppers—into a live theater venue, producing original plays and demonstrating the space's versatility. This year, they are collaborating with Hummingbird Theater to continue expanding performing arts opportunities in our community.
The focus of this grant—upgrading theatrical lighting equipment—represents a critical next step in strengthening the technical capacity of our local performing arts scene. Modern, flexible-use lighting will not only elevate the quality of productions at Heartstoppers and other performances but also provide meaningful skill-building opportunities for youth and adults interested in technical theater. As Rancho Cordova’s performing arts sector continues to grow, access to professional-grade equipment and hands-on training will help cultivate talent, deepen connections, and foster a true sense of belonging.
In support of this effort, the Cordova Community Council has committed space at our Mine Shaft property for skill development, safe storage, and proper use of the requested equipment. We are proud to partner in ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
Cordova Community Council Foundation * 2729 Prospect Park Dr. * Suite 117 * Rancho Cordova, CA 95670 (916) 273-5707 * cordovacouncil.org
ensuring that these resources are maintained responsibly and leveraged to raise the overall quality of stagecraft in Rancho Cordova. As additional venues are identified and developed in the future, having established performing arts groups and loyal audiences will position our city for continued cultural and economic success.
TE4TN’s dedication to continuous improvement, inclusive participation, and community enrichment makes them an outstanding candidate for support through the Community Enhancement & Investment Fund. We are proud to collaborate with them and enthusiastically support this investment in Rancho Cordova's blossoming performing arts sector.
Sincerely,
Shelly Blanchard
Executive Director
Cordova Community Council
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
To Whom It May Concern:
My name is Danielle Mercado, and I am the Artistic Director of Hummingbird Theatre Company in Rancho Cordova, CA. We are currently in residence with the Non-profit ‘Theatre Education 4 Theatre Nerds’’ (T.E.4.T.N.) at the Mineshaft Building in Rancho Cordova. We are putting on “Romeo and Juliet (but Pirates)” in May 2026 and have been working with TE4TN as well as the Cordova Community Council Foundation for the last couple of months to begin conceiving and developing this project.
I understand that T.E.4.T.N. is applying for a grant, and I am happy to write this letter in full support of their organization.
While I haven’t known Joel, Lisa or the organization for very long, the Heartstoppers event's reputation speaks for itself. They have shown enormous growth and potential throughout their stay at the Mineshaft Building, building up Heartstoppers year after year in what can only be described as a magnificent feat. They are very well known in Northern California.
The TE4TN team has been very supportive and accommodating as fellow theatre lovers and makers. That initiative speaks volumes about the leadership. They understand that community theatre thrives on support, collaboration, and shared success. The Heartstoppers team puts in an incredible amount of work behind the scenes. From set building and technical design to administration, outreach, acquiring materials, and taking care of actors and creative teams, education in costuming, special effects, engineering, stunts, etc., they are ready to bring even more to the space and use it as a multi-event venue.
This request for lighting would not only allow them to put on more shows throughout the year, it would also allow organizations such as mine to thrive as well. If we pool our resources, we can create a multi-discipline creative arts space that allows us all to reach our full potential, put on incredible shows, and truly benefit the entire City of Rancho Cordova.
I have no doubt that Theatre Education 4 Theatre Nerds would use grant funding responsibly and transparently. The leadership team members are thoughtful, organized, and passionate about bringing quality theatre to our community. The impact of their work extends beyond actors - it also benefits technicians, students, creative teams, families, and audiences throughout the Sacramento region and beyond.
I strongly support Theatre Education 4 Theatre Nerds and am confident in their ability to successfully complete the proposed project. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions.
Best Regards,
Danielle Mercado
Hummingbird Theatre Company
Artistic Director
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
CEIF PROGRAM APPLICATION – TE4TN
ATTACHMENT – PROJECT TEAM (continued)
Joel Watson continued - Over the intervening years, Joel has created a program offering hundreds of young people opportunities to try their hand at theatrical lighting, sound effects and set design – not to mention project management, team work and problem solving – while working on the annual Heartstoppers production, as well as other stagecraft skills and technical topics through monthly theater education workshops. Joel designs all of the educational opportunities and uses his contacts in the technical theater and professional haunt industries to bring presenters for the various workshops, as well as serving as the primary instructor during the Heartstoppers production season.
Cordova Community Council Foundation: CCCF was originally introduced to TE4TN in 2010, when the Heartstoppers haunted theatrical event came to Haggin Park, and then began actively working with the organization in 2013 to more fully integrate TE4TN with the Rancho Cordova community and its high school students. Today, the CCCF assists with location management and is a major financial beneficiary of the large community fundraiser that Heartstoppers has become. As the owner of the Mine Shaft facility where the requested lighting equipment will be used and stored, the CCCF’s mission will also benefit in that the equipment would be available (along with TE4TN-trained advanced tech students) for use with the community concert band and other CCCF supported groups when they come to the facility to rehearse or perform.
TE4TN Board Secretary/CFO – Toan Pham: Mr. Pham is a live performance sound engineer and sound board software developer, who joined the TE4TN board of directors in January 2025, but has ties to Heartstoppers that go way back. He is part of Joel’s circle of fellow theater techies that started out working with theatrical lighting and sound design in the mid 90s. Now as the volunteer CFO for the organization, he is responsible for financial oversight and ensuring that all funds are used according to the budget, grant and sponsor restrictions, and board guidance.
Toan works closely with the organization’s Business Manager who has the day-to-day money management duties.
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
Thank you for your interest in applying to the City of Rancho Cordova's Community Enhancement & Investment Fund. Applications are open from February 9, 2026, to March 13, 2026, Noon (12:00 p.m.) with a specific deadline of March 6th Noon (12:00 p.m.) for certain applications**. Before you begin, please read the notes about deadlines and certain types of grant applications/grants below. **School/Park Application Deadline **Note that projects or programs involving a park or school district have a deadline of March 6 Noon (12:00 p.m.) to allow for the third-party endorsement process by the grant deadline.** A Note about Religious Schools and the Application/Grant Process **Note for grant applications from religious schools. The United States Supreme Court has recently ruled in part that:
“denying a generally available benefit [from government] solely on account of religious identity imposes a penalty on the free exercise of religion that can be justified only by a state interest of the highest order.” The City is of the opinion that not all grants to religious schools are prohibited under this and other similar rulings. However, these United States Supreme Court decisions remain in conflict with a section of the California State Constitution that says: “[n]either the Legislature, nor any county, city and county, township, school district, or other municipal corporation, shall ever make an appropriation, or pay from any public fund whatever, or grant anything to or in aid of any religious sect, church, creed, or sectarian purpose, or help to support or sustain any school, college, university, hospital, or other institution controlled by any religious creed, church, or sectarian denomination whatever; nor shall any grant or donation of personal property or real estate ever be made by the state, or any city, city and county, town, or other municipal corporation for any religious creed, church, or sectarian purpose whatever”. The City will accept applications for grants of these City public funds from religious schools, but will have language in the grant agreements to address the possibility and consequences of legal challenges and new court decisions on this and related topics. ** Future Grant Opportunities If you are interested in remaining up-to-date on available grants from the City of Rancho Cordova, click here to sign up for the Grants Interest List. A separate call for programming opportunities with the Rancho Cordova Youth Center is anticipated later in 2026. The list is also used to advertise separate art programs when funds are available. Ongoing Grant Opportunity The City of Rancho Cordova offers a microgrant opportunity. Learn more about those grants online.
Is this your first time
applying for grant
funding from the City
of Rancho Cordova?
As a first-time
applicant, Community
Enhancement &
Investment Fund
(CEIF) staff will
contact you to
discuss your project
and grant application
process.
No: Not a First Time Applicant
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
1 - Project/Program Information Note: You can add a collaborator to this form to assist you in completing this application! A collaborator can help you complete this form by filling in fields for you, although only you can submit this form. You can add a collaborator by navigating to the top of the form and clicking on the 'Manage Collaborators' button. Simply enter their email address and click 'invite' to invite them as a collaborator. If you need further assistance, you may consult this Help article for more information.
Project/Program
Name. Assign a
project name to your
project/program.
Aim High: Soaring with the Tuskegee Airmen Exhibit & Programming Which category does
your Project/Program
align with?
Arts, Culture, History, & Entertainment
Provide a
Project/Program
Synopsis
With CEIF support, Sacramento Children’s Museum will bring a new nationally traveling exhibit called Aim High: Soaring with the Tuskegee Airmen to our Museum that invites children and their families to explore multiple aspects of aviation, from the rich history of the Tuskegee Airmen to 21st century STEM concepts.
Provide a
Project/Program
Description
Project Details
Sacramento Children’s Museum respectfully requests $50,000 in funding support over a two-year period from the City of Rancho Cordova Community Enhancement & Investment Fund (CEIF) to bring a new nationally traveling exhibit called Aim High: Soaring with the Tuskegee Airmen to our Museum in Fall 2027.
This immersive exhibit invites children and their families to explore multiple aspects of aviation, from the rich history of the Tuskegee Airmen to 21st century STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) concepts. Inspired by the tools and tasks related to flying and aeronautics, the interactive experiences mix real artifacts with hands-on play. Visitors of all ages will be able to imagine themselves in the role of aviators, inspired by the past and dream of the future. In this exhibit, visitors can:
Scroll through an interactive slide show featuring historical images of the Tuskegee Airmen and their airplanes.
Dive into aviation history by exploring historical artifacts and information panels on display that highlight the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen and their influence on the future of aviation.
Get an up-close view of the inside of a Cockpit Flight Trainer and watch videos of the plane taking off and landing from the captain’s seat advantage point. This life-size cockpit is perfect for dramatic play and includes a row of actual airplane seats.
Design and build a custom rocket using just paper and tape, and watch it blast off at the Rocket Launcher.
Step up to the Interactive Mirror, activated by pressure sensitive mats, to expose images of airplanes. This activity helps visitors see themselves in roles in the aviation field with a variety of costumes.
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
To complement this exhibit and expand the learning experience, we plan to host three community events during the exhibit’s run (September 2027 - January 2028). These events will offer extended evening hours for families to explore the Aim High: Soaring with the Tuskegee Airmen exhibit and will feature community partners. All Rancho Cordova residents will receive free admission for these family-friendly events.
CEIF support will cover essential expenses for our project, including exhibit rental and shipping costs ($18,000); installation costs ($20,000); marketing and graphic design ($4,500); personnel expenses ($2,500); and free event admission for Rancho Cordova residents ($5,000).
Alignment with Grant Purpose
Our project primarily aligns with the fund’s focus on promoting Arts, Culture, History and Entertainment for the benefit of the Rancho Cordova community. The Aim High: Soaring with the Tuskegee Airmen exhibit brings history to life. The exhibit centers on the Tuskegee Airmen, the first military division of African American pilots who fought in World War II. Their courage, dedication, and groundbreaking achievements in the face of adversity are an essential part of American history, and this exhibit will provide a unique opportunity for local children to learn about these trailblazing figures in an interactive, age-appropriate setting. Further, the family-friendly events will celebrate the rich aviation history of the Sacramento region and Rancho Cordova. We will invite community partners to participate and table at these events, including California Capitol Airshow, the City of Rancho Cordova, and other Sacramento Area Museums.
Our project also aligns with the fund’s focus on Children and Youth. The exhibit’s engaging, hands-on activities on aviation and aeronautics will make a profound impact on promoting STEM education for those in the critical 0-8 age range. By making these STEM concepts accessible and fun, the exhibit will not only engage children in understanding how flight works, but will also foster their curiosity about science and technology at an early age. Moreover, this exhibit inspires children to dream big! Children of all ages can imagine themselves as future aviators through hands-on imaginative play, interactive games, and inspirational artifacts and stories from the past.
Sacramento Children’s Museum has proudly served the Rancho Cordova community for the past 15 years, and this new project will provide thousands of local children and their families with a rich, multidimensional learning experience that incorporates STEM education, the heroic contributions of the Tuskegee Airmen, and Rancho Cordova’s ties to the aviation industry.
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
Tell us about your
Project/Program
Team
Exhibit Development
Aim High: Soaring with the Tuskegee Airmen was created by Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh in partnership with Hosanna House, Inc. Sacramento Children’s Museum will be the first museum in California to feature this extraordinary exhibit.
Museum Project Team
Museum Executive Director Sharon Stone Smith will oversee all aspects of the exhibit. Sharon has spearheaded our traveling exhibits program over the past four years, successfully bringing four distinct, immersive exhibitions that have engaged thousands of children in STEM learning, social-emotional learning, and health and wellness.
Museum Grants Coordinator Sherry Anne Dayag will assist in fundraising efforts for this project.
Provide your
Project/Program
Goals
Project Goals
1. Educate children about the inspiring history of the Tuskegee Airmen, pioneers who broke barriers in both aviation and American society.
2. Promote STEM learning, notably the fundamentals of flight and aviation, through hands-on activities.
3. Inspire children to dream big and pursue continued education and careers in aviation-related fields.
4. Celebrate Rancho Cordova’s rich aviation history.
5. Serve 4,400 Rancho Cordova residents through this project.
Metrics
To measure our progress in meeting goals Nos. 1-4, we will utilize online parent surveys and staff observations to assess how the exhibit impacts children’s STEM knowledge, and their understanding of the history of the Tuskegee Airmen and Rancho Cordova’s ties to the aviation industry. To measure our success in meeting goal No. 5, we will track the number of Rancho Cordova residents who visit the exhibit and attend the free community events.
Team Management Strategies
To ensure the project team’s efforts remain focused, we will hold quarterly meetings to assess project progress and address any challenges. We will also seek feedback from visitors, staff, and partners following each community event to ensure these events successfully meet visitors’ needs and stay aligned with our project goals.
Optional File Upload: Provide any additional records to supplement your program/project application. Note: Combine multiple files in one pdf before uploading.
SCM_AimHigh_ONE-PAGER.pdf
2 - Funding & Costs
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
Funding Request -
Complete this
section with total
dollar amounts for
your
project/program's
costs
Funds are generally not intended to be used for deferred maintenance and ongoing operational needs. The funds are intended for enhancing and investing in the City of Rancho Cordova. If your project/program is awarded, the costs identified below would be reviewed and potentially open to modification during a contracting phase (if a grant is awarded by the City Council). If awarded, grant funds are not available until a contract is executed during Fiscal Year 2026-2027.
Total project/program
cost*
77000
What is the amount
of Community
Enhancement &
Investment Fund
grant monies
requested?
50000
Does your
project/program
involve construction
of any facilities or
improvements upon
any property?
No
What is the total cost
of personnel for your
project/program?
2500
What is the total cost
of supplies for your
project/program?
0 What is the total cost
of transportation for
your
project/program?
0 What is the total cost
of equipment for your
project/program?
38000
What is the total cost
of any miscellaneous
expenses for your
project/program?
9500
Upload your project/program's budget as a .pdf file. Include the categories and their dollar amounts along with information about any other funding sources to demonstrate your project/program's total budget. Note, the sum of all categories must match the total project or program cost, or the amount requested of CEIF if there is no other funding source. Please clearly illustrate any matching funds or funding from other sources in your project/program budget, including in-kind sources. Note: Combine multiple files in one pdf before uploading.
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
SCM_AimHigh_Budget.pdf
Has your
organization sought
or will seek other
funding for this
project/program?
Yes, actively seeking funding support or have secured additional funding support for this project/program.
Describe any funding
secured or being
sought for this
project/program.
We plan to request additional grant funding from the Kelly Foundation ($10,000) and the Sacramento County TOT Grant program ($10,000). We also plan to use revenue from Museum ticket sales to fund this project.
Please describe any
ongoing operations
and maintenance
costs beyond Fiscal
Year 2026/2027, if
applicable.
We are requesting funding for a two-year period. The exhibit is reserved for our Museum’s use for Fall 2027, and the exhibit’s rental fees are due over multiple years.
Do you have
volunteer or in-kind
support for your
project? This could
include volunteers for
an activity/event that
is ongoing or a onetime experience.
No
Is this a single year
request or a request
for funding for
multiple years?
Multiple Years
If requesting CEIF
grant funding for
multiple years,
please share how
many years?
2 years
For requests
spanning multiple
years, share the
dollar amount
requested per year.
FY 2026-2027: $25,000
FY 2027-2028: $25,000
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
For
projects/programs
that span multiple
years, please
describe your
sustainability plan
and whether it is
viable as a single
year request.
Our project is not viable as a single-year request. The exhibit is reserved for our Museum’s use for Fall 2027, and the exhibit’s rental fees are due over multiple years. The project will end in January 2028 at the culmination of our exhibit rental period.
Has your
project/program
received funding from
the Community
Enhancement &
Investment Fund
previously?
No
3 - Project/Program Details Grant applications are typically approved to occur between July 2026 through June 2027. What is your plan to complete this project/program within this time frame?
Anticipated Start
Date (July 1 is the
soonest available
start date)
7/1/2026
Anticipated End Date
(typically
projects/programs
end by June 30)
1/31/2028
Please describe your
project/program
schedule
FY 2026-2027
July 1, 2026: Museum staff fundraising efforts begin
September 2026: Exhibit rental fee payment due
January 2027 - March 2027: Graphic design and staff planning for community events begins
April 2027 - June 2027: Marketing and community outreach begins FY 2027-2028
July 2027 - August 2027: Marketing and community outreach continues August 2027: Exhibit rental fee payment due
September 13 - 24, 2027: Exhibit receiving and installation September 25, 2027 - January 9, 2028: Exhibit open to the public.
Three family-friendly community events will take place during the timeframe of the exhibit, tentatively once monthly in October, November, and December 2027.
January 10 - 16, 2028: Exhibit breakdown and outbound shipping ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
What challenges do
you anticipate in your
project/program's
implementation?
What is your plan to
complete your
project/program
should those or other
challenges arise?
We anticipate that maintenance of the Aim High: Soaring with the Tuskegee Airmen exhibit will be one challenge. Because the exhibit is interactive, we expect some of the exhibit’s hands-on components to wear out or break and some of the technological elements may fail. To ensure that all exhibit components continue operating smoothly, we will develop a proactive maintenance and inspection schedule to ensure everything is functioning properly, with special attention to high-use exhibits. We also will train staff on basic troubleshooting.
Another potential challenge is reaching our intended audience. To build awareness and ensure maximum engagement, particularly for our familyfriendly community events, we will utilize social media, press releases to local news outlets, and community partners to promote the project and broaden its reach, and increase these efforts if our events are not heavily attended.
How many individuals
does your
project/program
serve?
26,000
How many Rancho
Cordova residents
does your
project/program
serve?
4,400
4 - Project/Program Location
Address Verification If you need to check if your project is in Rancho Cordova, type in your program/project's location in the Assessor Parcel Viewer:
https://assessorparcelviewer.saccounty.gov/jsviewer/assessor.html ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
School and park
related applications
are due before Noon
(12:00 p.m.) on
March 6, 2026, to
allow for the
endorsement
process.
Please note that projects or programs that are proposed on property owned or operated by outside agencies or a private party will require coordination with and potentially approvals from outside agencies, organizations, and/or the private party. Include whether you have received a letter of support for the project/program from the property owner. Upload any letters of support with your application. City staff will verify third-party permits have been discussed. In your planning discussions, be sure to discuss any necessary insurance or volunteer requirements that may increase budget costs. School Sites If your project/program is intended to operate at a public K-12 school site, your application is due by March 6 at Noon (12:00 p.m.). City staff will work with the school districts to confirm an endorsement for your project/program. It’s the applicant’s responsibility to communicate with school site and district representatives before applying so there is clarity during the endorsement process. Districts will only consider endorsement for applications submitted to the Community Enhancement & Investment Fund by the March 6 at Noon (12:00 p.m.). deadline. Each participating school superintendent reserves the right to withhold their endorsement of a project/program. Parks If your project/program is intended to operate at a park or community center site, your application is due by the March 6 at Noon (12:00 p.m.). deadline. City staff will work with the Cordova Recreation & Park District to confirm an endorsement for your project/program. It’s the applicant’s responsibility to communicate with district representatives before applying so there is clarity during the endorsement process. A special use permit application is required for any program or event planned at a CRPD facility. The special use application can be found at the CRPD website:
https://www.cordovarpd.gov/. CRPD will only consider endorsement for applications submitted to the Community Enhancement & Investment Fund by the March 6 at Noon (12:00 p.m.). deadline. The Cordova Recreation & Park District reserves the right to withhold their endorsement of a project/program. Below is the list of staff to communicate with at school and park organizations: Folsom Cordova Unified School District:
[email protected] Cordova Recreation & Park District:
[email protected] Elk Grove Unified School District:
[email protected] Sacramento City Unified School District: Tuan[email protected] for Winn and Carver and [email protected] for Lincoln.
Primary street
address of
project/program
2701 Prospect Park Drive
List the city location
of the
project/program.
Rancho Cordova
Select State CA
Provide the zip code
for your
project/program's
primary location.
95670
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
If your
project/program
takes place at
multiple locations,
please list other or
secondary locations.
N/A
Third Party Letters of Support (Note: Combine multiple files in one pdf before uploading) SCM_Letter_of_Support_CCA2026.pdf
Does your
project/program
involve one of
Rancho Cordova's
school districts?
No
Does your
project/program
involve the Cordova
Recreation & Park
District?
No
5 - Applicant Information
Name Sherry Anne
Dayag
Is this
project/program on
behalf of an
organization?
Yes
What is the name of
your organization?
Sacramento Children's Museum
What is your title
and/or role at your
organization?
Grants Coordinator
Provide contact
phone number:
Provide contact
email:
[email protected]
Are you the primary
point of contact on
this project/program?
Yes
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
If your
project/program was
awarded the
requested funds, are
you authorized to
sign the contract for
your organization?
No, someone else would sign the contract
If selected by the
City Council to
receive an award,
what is the name of
the person at your
organization who
would sign the
contract?
Sharon
Stone Smith
What is the title of
this individual?
Executive Director
What is the best
phone number where
we could contact the
signatory?
What is the best
email address to
contact the
signatory?
[email protected]
By checking here, I
confirm that I am
aware that my
application materials
will become public
record.
checked
Thank you for applying to the Community Enhancement & Investment Fund Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Grant Cycle. Applicants will receive an automated response through the grant portal. Community Enhancement & Investment Fund (CEIF) Staff will follow up with any questions regarding your Fiscal Year 2026-2027 application. For information about the next steps in the CEIF grant process, visit our website for more information. It is anticipated that applications will be reviewed by the City Council starting in April 2026 with adoption in June 2026. Should applicants be awarded by the City Council, funding would not be available to grantees until the start of Fiscal Year 2026-2027 and the completion of a contract. Please send an email to [email protected] with any questions or comments.
Internal Form
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
Score n/a
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
Mather Airport ● 10425 Norden Avenue ● Mather, CA 95655 ● (916) 876-7568 ● www.CaliforniaCapitalAirshow.com March 5, 2026
Re: Letter of Support for Sacramento Children’s Museum
Dear Grants Committee,
I am pleased to offer my strong support for Sacramento Children’s Museum’s grant proposal to feature a new children’s exhibit highlighting the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen and the fascinating world of flight.
The California Capital Airshow is proud to support educational efforts that inspire young people to explore aviation, aerospace, and STEM opportunities, and we are honored to partner regularly with Sacramento Children’s Museum in sharing the rich aviation heritage of our region. Located near historic Mather Airport -- home to more than a century of aviation history -- the Museum provides an exceptional environment to spark curiosity in young minds and introduce children to the many rewarding careers across aviation, aerospace, and advanced technology industries.
This work aligns closely with our own mission at the California Capital Airshow to inspire young people to explore these career fields through exciting and meaningful educational experiences.
Sacramento Children’s Museum consistently delivers engaging, hands-on learning experiences that translate complex ideas into moments of discovery for young learners. Their commitment to interactive education and family-centered programming makes them an invaluable community resource and a trusted partner for organizations like ours that are dedicated to inspiring the next generation.
The proposed Aim High exhibit is a natural extension of the Museum’s mission.
Through hands-on and age-appropriate activities, children will explore the principles of aerodynamics and the mechanics of flight while discovering the heroic contributions of the Tuskegee Airmen. As the first Black military aviators in the U.S.
Army Air Corps during World War II, the Tuskegee Airmen demonstrated extraordinary skill and courage while helping break barriers in American aviation.
Their legacy remains especially meaningful in our region, which is fortunate to be home to two very active Tuskegee Airmen Heritage Chapters that continue to preserve and share these important stories. An exhibit like this will resonate deeply with the incredibly diverse students and families we serve, offering young learners both inspiration and a powerful reminder that aviation—and the opportunities it represents -- belongs to everyone.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Terrence McNamara
Atlas Disposal
CHAIR
Timothy Murphy
North State Building Industry
Association
VICE CHAIR
Dr. Brian Aguilar
Physicians for a Healthy
California
SECRETARY
Michael Faust
Velocity Strategies
TREASURER
Abel Barrientes
Major General, USAF (Ret.)
Shelly Blanchard
Cordova Community Council
Matthew Ceccato
Office of Congressman Ami Bera
Stephen Clark
Sacramento County
Department of Airports
Brandon Darnell
Visit Sacramento
Grant Deary
Deary Enterprises
Felipe Fuentes
Pacific Coast Capitol Advisors, Inc.
Robert W. Heidt, Jr.
Sacramento Metro Chamber
of Commerce
Samantha Lieuwen
City of Rancho Cordova
Robert J. Martinelli
Colonel, USAF (Ret.)
Glen Rickelton
Sacramento County
Department of Airports
Micah Runner
City of Rancho Cordova
Marc Sapoznik
Visit Rancho Cordova
Dave Sikich
Atlas Disposal
Will Middleton
BOARD MEMBER EMERITUS
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
Mather Airport ● 10425 Norden Avenue ● Mather, CA 95655 ● (916) 876-7568 ● www.CaliforniaCapitalAirshow.com I am confident that this exhibit will provide a meaningful educational experience for Rancho Cordova and the broader Sacramento region’s children and families, inspiring the next generation of pilots, engineers, innovators, and leaders. Based on our experience partnering with Sacramento Children’s Museum -- and with the strong support for youth aviation education across our region -- I believe in their ability to deliver an engaging and impactful exhibit that will benefit our community for years to come.
I fully support Sacramento Children’s Museum in bringing this important and inspiring project to life. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Darcy Brewer
Chief Executive Officer
California Capital Airshow
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
9. Application
Withdrawn
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
Thank you for your interest in applying to the City of Rancho Cordova's Community Enhancement & Investment Fund. Applications are open from February 9, 2026, to March 13, 2026, Noon (12:00 p.m.) with a specific deadline of March 6th Noon (12:00 p.m.) for certain applications**. Before you begin, please read the notes about deadlines and certain types of grant applications/grants below. **School/Park Application Deadline **Note that projects or programs involving a park or school district have a deadline of March 6 Noon (12:00 p.m.) to allow for the third-party endorsement process by the grant deadline.** A Note about Religious Schools and the Application/Grant Process **Note for grant applications from religious schools. The United States Supreme Court has recently ruled in part that:
“denying a generally available benefit [from government] solely on account of religious identity imposes a penalty on the free exercise of religion that can be justified only by a state interest of the highest order.” The City is of the opinion that not all grants to religious schools are prohibited under this and other similar rulings. However, these United States Supreme Court decisions remain in conflict with a section of the California State Constitution that says: “[n]either the Legislature, nor any county, city and county, township, school district, or other municipal corporation, shall ever make an appropriation, or pay from any public fund whatever, or grant anything to or in aid of any religious sect, church, creed, or sectarian purpose, or help to support or sustain any school, college, university, hospital, or other institution controlled by any religious creed, church, or sectarian denomination whatever; nor shall any grant or donation of personal property or real estate ever be made by the state, or any city, city and county, town, or other municipal corporation for any religious creed, church, or sectarian purpose whatever”. The City will accept applications for grants of these City public funds from religious schools, but will have language in the grant agreements to address the possibility and consequences of legal challenges and new court decisions on this and related topics. ** Future Grant Opportunities If you are interested in remaining up-to-date on available grants from the City of Rancho Cordova, click here to sign up for the Grants Interest List. A separate call for programming opportunities with the Rancho Cordova Youth Center is anticipated later in 2026. The list is also used to advertise separate art programs when funds are available. Ongoing Grant Opportunity The City of Rancho Cordova offers a microgrant opportunity. Learn more about those grants online.
Is this your first time
applying for grant
funding from the City
of Rancho Cordova?
As a first-time
applicant, Community
Enhancement &
Investment Fund
(CEIF) staff will
contact you to
discuss your project
and grant application
process.
No: Not a First Time Applicant
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
1 - Project/Program Information Note: You can add a collaborator to this form to assist you in completing this application! A collaborator can help you complete this form by filling in fields for you, although only you can submit this form. You can add a collaborator by navigating to the top of the form and clicking on the 'Manage Collaborators' button. Simply enter their email address and click 'invite' to invite them as a collaborator. If you need further assistance, you may consult this Help article for more information.
Project/Program
Name. Assign a
project name to your
project/program.
Sacramento Telangana Association: Festival of Flowers
Which category does
your Project/Program
align with?
Arts, Culture, History, & Entertainment
Provide a
Project/Program
Synopsis
The Festival of Flowers, organized by the Sacramento Telangana Association, brings together diverse cultures through traditional dances, music, art exhibitions, and educational workshops.
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
Provide a
Project/Program
Description
The Sacramento Telangana Association is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and promoting the rich culture and arts of India.
Our mission is to bridge the gap between diverse ethnic communities and integrate multiple cultures through active civic engagement and community involvement.
Every year, during the September–October time frame, the Sacramento Telangana Association organizes the festival “Bathukamma – Festival of Flowers.” This vibrant and colorful celebration highlights the intrinsic relationship between earth, water, plants, flowers, and human beings, fostering a sense of community integration and harmony. The festival honors the beauty of nature, the collective spirit of people, the indomitable strength of women, and the agrarian community’s scientific approach to preserving natural resources.
The Bathukamma Festival is a unique cultural event that showcases the heritage of Telangana through a variety of activities. These include traditional dances, music performances, art exhibitions, and educational workshops on creating Bathukammas—beautiful, multi-layered floral arrangements. The festival also features authentic Telangana cuisine, which is served free to all attendees, offering a delightful cultural and culinary experience.
The Sacramento Telangana Association is requesting community enhancement grant funds to support the Festival of Flowers. This event encourages active civic engagement and provides a strong sense of place for residents through arts, music, culture, education, and entertainment.
Over the past decade, this festival has served as a platform for integrating diverse cultures into the community, fostering mutual respect, appreciation, and understanding.
Over the last ten years, the festival has attracted approximately 2,000 participants annually from diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds, including elected representatives, public officials, business leaders, community leaders, and volunteers. Measure H grant funding will enable us to further enhance, educate, and organize this unique festival in the heart of the City of Rancho Cordova.
Bathukamma – Festival of Flowers has the potential to grow into a major regional tourist attraction, drawing visitors from across California and beyond. It promotes the image of Rancho Cordova as a vibrant cultural hub, enhancing the city’s reputation while contributing to economic growth.
Visitors from cities such as Folsom, Roseville, Rocklin, Stockton, Yuba City, Fremont, San Ramon, Fresno, Modesto, and Fairfield help generate new revenue for the local economy and create opportunities for partnerships that improve quality of life in Rancho Cordova.
In summary, the Bathukamma Festival is not just a celebration of flowers— it is a celebration of culture, community, and collective spirit. It serves as a vital platform for cultural exchange, education, and civic engagement, making it an invaluable asset to the Sacramento region.
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
Tell us about your
Project/Program
Team
Sacramento Telangana Association board has leadership and skill to organize
the event with help of dedicated community volunteers, our team contains members from various professionals, doctors, business owners, educators, and community leaders.
1. Satish Pasupulati – Sr. Engineer/Entrepreneur/Community LeaderFounder
2. Sunitha Venteru – President and Sr.Engineer, UC Davis
3. Srinadha Babu - Member of Board of Trustee, Sr.Engineer, State of California
4. Laxma Legala – IT Professional/Community Volunteer
5. Anil Reddy – Community Volunteer
6. Srinivas Reddy Kumbam –Entrepreneur
7. Dr.Venu Bellum, MD Kaiserpermanete, Rancho Cordova
8. Dr.Nataraj Podishetty - Plant Sciences ,UC Davis
Provide your
Project/Program
Goals
Our goal is to integrate the diverse cultures and ethnicities of the Greater Sacramento region by providing enriching experiences in arts, music, culture, and education. This festival connects various sectors of the community through active civic engagement, fostering a strong sense of place and community pride. It strengthens community relationships through shared experiences in arts, music, culture, education, and entertainment.
This festival is free and open to all community members. It remains a celebration of women’s strength and symbolic empowerment. The event honors womanhood and nature’s beauty by celebrating flowers and their significance in cultural tradition.
It is essential to educate future generations about different cultures, traditions, and the diverse world we live in. As global connections continue to grow, cultural understanding becomes increasingly important. The Bathukamma festival helps children in our community learn to appreciate and respect various cultures and traditions, ultimately shaping them into more informed, compassionate, and responsible citizens.
The festival features a variety of engaging programs, including traditional dancing, an art exhibition, an educational workshop on creating Bathukammas, and the opportunity to enjoy authentic Telangana cuisine— served free to all attendees.
This festival supports the Rancho Cordova community by attracting visitors from across the Sacramento region, including cities such as Folsom, Roseville, Rocklin, Stockton, Yuba City, Fremont, San Ramon, Fresno, Modesto, and Fairfield. The influx of visitors contributes new revenue to the local economy and creates opportunities for partnerships that enhance the overall quality of life in Rancho Cordova.
Optional File Upload: Provide any additional records to supplement your program/project application. Note: Combine multiple files in one pdf before uploading. 2025_pics.pdf
2 - Funding & Costs
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
Funding Request -
Complete this
section with total
dollar amounts for
your
project/program's
costs
Funds are generally not intended to be used for deferred maintenance and ongoing operational needs. The funds are intended for enhancing and investing in the City of Rancho Cordova. If your project/program is awarded, the costs identified below would be reviewed and potentially open to modification during a contracting phase (if a grant is awarded by the City Council). If awarded, grant funds are not available until a contract is executed during Fiscal Year 2026-2027.
Total project/program
cost*
30000
What is the amount
of Community
Enhancement &
Investment Fund
grant monies
requested?
20000
Does your
project/program
involve construction
of any facilities or
improvements upon
any property?
No
What is the total cost
of personnel for your
project/program?
0 What is the total cost
of supplies for your
project/program?
15000
What is the total cost
of transportation for
your
project/program?
0 What is the total cost
of equipment for your
project/program?
5000
What is the total cost
of any miscellaneous
expenses for your
project/program?
5000
Upload your project/program's budget as a .pdf file. Include the categories and their dollar amounts along with information about any other funding sources to demonstrate your project/program's total budget. Note, the sum of all categories must match the total project or program cost, or the amount requested of CEIF if there is no other funding source. Please clearly illustrate any matching funds or funding from other sources in your project/program budget, including in-kind sources. Note: Combine multiple files in one pdf before uploading.
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
Total_ProjectCost_2026.pdf
Has your
organization sought
or will seek other
funding for this
project/program?
Yes, actively seeking funding support or have secured additional funding support for this project/program.
Describe any funding
secured or being
sought for this
project/program.
We have few annual sponsors for our events who contributes from 500 to 2000. For this event we have secured 5000 dollars funding.
Please describe any
ongoing operations
and maintenance
costs beyond Fiscal
Year 2026/2027, if
applicable.
N/A
Do you have
volunteer or in-kind
support for your
project? This could
include volunteers for
an activity/event that
is ongoing or a onetime experience.
No
Is this a single year
request or a request
for funding for
multiple years?
Single Year
Has your
project/program
received funding from
the Community
Enhancement &
Investment Fund
previously?
Yes
How many years has
your project/program
received funding from
the Community
Enhancement &
Investment Fund?
5 or more years
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
How much funding
has your organization
received from the
Community
Enhancement &
Investment Fund
through our
traditional grants (not
including
microgrants)?
More than 50000 dollars over the years
3 - Project/Program Details Grant applications are typically approved to occur between July 2026 through June 2027. What is your plan to complete this project/program within this time frame?
Anticipated Start
Date (July 1 is the
soonest available
start date)
10/17/2026
Anticipated End Date
(typically
projects/programs
end by June 30)
10/17/2026
Please describe your
project/program
schedule
The Flower Festival is a single-day event that will be scheduled based on the availability of Navigator School on October 17 or 18, 2026.
What challenges do
you anticipate in your
project/program's
implementation?
What is your plan to
complete your
project/program
should those or other
challenges arise?
In case of bad weather, we may need to postpone the event to the following day or the next weekend.
How many individuals
does your
project/program
serve?
About 2000
How many Rancho
Cordova residents
does your
project/program
serve?
1500
4 - Project/Program Location
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
Address Verification If you need to check if your project is in Rancho Cordova, type in your program/project's location in the Assessor Parcel Viewer:
https://assessorparcelviewer.saccounty.gov/jsviewer/assessor.html School and park
related applications
are due before Noon
(12:00 p.m.) on
March 6, 2026, to
allow for the
endorsement
process.
Please note that projects or programs that are proposed on property owned or operated by outside agencies or a private party will require coordination with and potentially approvals from outside agencies, organizations, and/or the private party. Include whether you have received a letter of support for the project/program from the property owner. Upload any letters of support with your application. City staff will verify third-party permits have been discussed. In your planning discussions, be sure to discuss any necessary insurance or volunteer requirements that may increase budget costs. School Sites If your project/program is intended to operate at a public K-12 school site, your application is due by March 6 at Noon (12:00 p.m.). City staff will work with the school districts to confirm an endorsement for your project/program. It’s the applicant’s responsibility to communicate with school site and district representatives before applying so there is clarity during the endorsement process. Districts will only consider endorsement for applications submitted to the Community Enhancement & Investment Fund by the March 6 at Noon (12:00 p.m.). deadline. Each participating school superintendent reserves the right to withhold their endorsement of a project/program. Parks If your project/program is intended to operate at a park or community center site, your application is due by the March 6 at Noon (12:00 p.m.). deadline. City staff will work with the Cordova Recreation & Park District to confirm an endorsement for your project/program. It’s the applicant’s responsibility to communicate with district representatives before applying so there is clarity during the endorsement process. A special use permit application is required for any program or event planned at a CRPD facility. The special use application can be found at the CRPD website:
https://www.cordovarpd.gov/. CRPD will only consider endorsement for applications submitted to the Community Enhancement & Investment Fund by the March 6 at Noon (12:00 p.m.). deadline. The Cordova Recreation & Park District reserves the right to withhold their endorsement of a project/program. Below is the list of staff to communicate with at school and park organizations: Folsom Cordova Unified School District:
[email protected] Cordova Recreation & Park District:
[email protected] Elk Grove Unified School District:
[email protected] Sacramento City Unified School District: Tuan[email protected] for Winn and Carver and [email protected] for Lincoln.
Primary street
address of
project/program
10679 Bear Hollow Dr
List the city location
of the
project/program.
Rancho Cordova
Select State CA
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
Provide the zip code
for your
project/program's
primary location.
95670
If your
project/program
takes place at
multiple locations,
please list other or
secondary locations.
Third Party Letters of
Support (Note:
Combine multiple
files in one pdf
before uploading)
Does your
project/program
involve one of
Rancho Cordova's
school districts?
Yes
Is the
project/program
requesting facility
use only or is this a
request to partner
with the school
district?
Facility Use Only. Visit the school district website for facility use information.
Please select all the
school districts which
your project/program
intends to involve:
Folsom Cordova USD
Please select one or
more of the Folsom
Cordova Unified
School District
school facilities
which your
project/program will
involve:
Navigator Elementary School
Have you reached
out to a contact at
the school(s) you
indicated above?
Yes
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
Please provide the
names of your
contacts at the
school(s) or
district(s) who are
familiar with your
project/program.
Ariel Gilson
Does your
project/program
involve the Cordova
Recreation & Park
District?
No
5 - Applicant Information
Name Sunitha
Venteru
Is this
project/program on
behalf of an
organization?
Yes
What is the name of
your organization?
Sacramento Telangana Association
What is your title
and/or role at your
organization?
President
Provide contact
phone number:
Provide contact
email:
Are you the primary
point of contact on
this project/program?
Yes
If your
project/program was
awarded the
requested funds, are
you authorized to
sign the contract for
your organization?
Yes, I would be the one to sign the contract
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
By checking here, I
confirm that I am
aware that my
application materials
will become public
record.
checked
Thank you for applying to the Community Enhancement & Investment Fund Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Grant Cycle. Applicants will receive an automated response through the grant portal. Community Enhancement & Investment Fund (CEIF) Staff will follow up with any questions regarding your Fiscal Year 2026-2027 application. For information about the next steps in the CEIF grant process, visit our website for more information. It is anticipated that applications will be reviewed by the City Council starting in April 2026 with adoption in June 2026. Should applicants be awarded by the City Council, funding would not be available to grantees until the start of Fiscal Year 2026-2027 and the completion of a contract. Please send an email to [email protected] with any questions or comments.
Internal Form
Score n/a
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
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ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
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ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
Thank you for your interest in applying to the City of Rancho Cordova's Community Enhancement & Investment Fund. Applications are open from February 9, 2026, to March 13, 2026, Noon (12:00 p.m.) with a specific deadline of March 6th Noon (12:00 p.m.) for certain applications**. Before you begin, please read the notes about deadlines and certain types of grant applications/grants below. **School/Park Application Deadline **Note that projects or programs involving a park or school district have a deadline of March 6 Noon (12:00 p.m.) to allow for the third-party endorsement process by the grant deadline.** A Note about Religious Schools and the Application/Grant Process **Note for grant applications from religious schools. The United States Supreme Court has recently ruled in part that:
“denying a generally available benefit [from government] solely on account of religious identity imposes a penalty on the free exercise of religion that can be justified only by a state interest of the highest order.” The City is of the opinion that not all grants to religious schools are prohibited under this and other similar rulings. However, these United States Supreme Court decisions remain in conflict with a section of the California State Constitution that says: “[n]either the Legislature, nor any county, city and county, township, school district, or other municipal corporation, shall ever make an appropriation, or pay from any public fund whatever, or grant anything to or in aid of any religious sect, church, creed, or sectarian purpose, or help to support or sustain any school, college, university, hospital, or other institution controlled by any religious creed, church, or sectarian denomination whatever; nor shall any grant or donation of personal property or real estate ever be made by the state, or any city, city and county, town, or other municipal corporation for any religious creed, church, or sectarian purpose whatever”. The City will accept applications for grants of these City public funds from religious schools, but will have language in the grant agreements to address the possibility and consequences of legal challenges and new court decisions on this and related topics. ** Future Grant Opportunities If you are interested in remaining up-to-date on available grants from the City of Rancho Cordova, click here to sign up for the Grants Interest List. A separate call for programming opportunities with the Rancho Cordova Youth Center is anticipated later in 2026. The list is also used to advertise separate art programs when funds are available. Ongoing Grant Opportunity The City of Rancho Cordova offers a microgrant opportunity. Learn more about those grants online.
Is this your first time
applying for grant
funding from the City
of Rancho Cordova?
As a first-time
applicant, Community
Enhancement &
Investment Fund
(CEIF) staff will
contact you to
discuss your project
and grant application
process.
Yes: First Time Applicant
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
1 - Project/Program Information Note: You can add a collaborator to this form to assist you in completing this application! A collaborator can help you complete this form by filling in fields for you, although only you can submit this form. You can add a collaborator by navigating to the top of the form and clicking on the 'Manage Collaborators' button. Simply enter their email address and click 'invite' to invite them as a collaborator. If you need further assistance, you may consult this Help article for more information.
Project/Program
Name. Assign a
project name to your
project/program.
Teatro Espejo: Season 51
Which category does
your Project/Program
align with?
Arts, Culture, History, & Entertainment
Provide a
Project/Program
Synopsis
Teatro Espejo’s 51st season will feature resonant and electric offerings for the community including a piece of original theater created by our ensemble of teatristas, a comedic one-man show, and our bi-annual Intercultural Festival of the Arts.
Provide a
Project/Program
Description
THE SEASON
Teatro Espejo’s 51st season is designed as a three-part, communitycentered initiative serving Rancho Cordova and greater Sacramento County through original artistic creation and intercultural collaboration.
The season begins with the development and production of a new, collectively created original play. Rooted in community stories and devised in collaboration with local artists, this work will reflect the lived experiences, histories, and aspirations of Rancho Cordova residents. The creation process will include artist convenings, story circles, and rehearsals that prioritize multigenerational participation. The production will be presented at Fat Elephant Theatre, with accessible ticket options to ensure broad community access.
The second show of our season is a new comedic one-man show written and performed by a local favorite, Ike Torres. Having performed several of his original solo shows throughout the Sacramento region, Ike has cultivated a local following and will premiere his newest show, HUMANIDAD, in collaboration with a creative team of teatristas. The show, while still in development, will touch on themes of being Latino in today’s political climate, the “American Dream”, and gender expression. With a shorter run, HUMANIDAD will also be presented at Fat Elephant Theatre.
The third anchor of the season is the Intercultural Festival of the Arts, a week-long celebration produced in partnership with culturally specific arts organizations including Matriarchy Theatre, Sinag-tala Filipino Theater, Ma Series Arts, and PNDA Lahiarts. Each partner will curate an evening of performance representing distinct cultural traditions across theater, dance, music, spoken word, and visual art. The festival culminates in a free community block party featuring live music, local vendors, teaching artists, and family-friendly activities.
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
Together, these programs advance Rancho Cordova’s goals of community enhancement by:
• Expanding access to arts programming at low cost
• Increasing visibility and opportunity for historically under-resourced BIPOC artists
• Strengthening cross-cultural understanding and civic connection • Activating local venues and public spaces
• Driving foot traffic to nearby small businesses during performances and festival events
COMMUNITY BENEFIT
Rancho Cordova is home to a diverse and growing population. However, culturally specific performing arts opportunities that reflect the identities of Latine, Black, Indigenous, and AAPI residents remain limited. Teatro Espejo’s season directly addresses this gap by creating spaces where community members see their stories, languages, and aesthetics represented.
Our plays offer local artists paid professional opportunities while fostering collaboration and skill-building. The Intercultural Festival expands audiences across communities, breaking down silos between organizations and encouraging shared participation. The culminating block party and marketplace support local creative entrepreneurs and vendors, contributing to neighborhood vibrancy and economic activity.
By combining original storytelling with intercultural celebration, Teatro Espejo’s season strengthens cultural vitality, supports economic activity, promotes inclusive public gathering, and deepens community pride in Rancho Cordova. It represents both artistic excellence and meaningful community investment.
Tell us about your
Project/Program
Team
Dr. Manuel Pickett (Lead Festival Organizer & Lead Season Producer) Manuel joined El Teatro Campesino in 1968 and founded Teatro Espejo in 1974. He was hired by Sacramento State to create a Chicano Teatro program, where he retired after 33 years. Recently, Manuel was recognized by California Arts Council as one of 20 artists in the state, awarded with a Legacy Individual Artist Award.
Nicole Limón (Associate Festival Organizer)
Nicole is a teatrista and teaches feminist, Latinx and multicultural theatre at Sacramento State. She holds an MFA in Acting from UC Davis, and a BA's in Theatre and Ethnic Studies.
Provide your
Project/Program
Goals
Teatro Espejo’s season has five primary goals, each supported by measurable outcomes and clear internal accountability.
GOAL 1: PRODUCE AND PRESENT A HIGH-QUALITY, COMMUNITYROOTED ORIGINAL PLAY.
We will collectively create and stage one original theatrical work developed in collaboration with local artists and community members.
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
Metrics:
• Minimum of 8 public performances
• At least 400 attendees
• Engagement of 10–15 paid local artists and collaborators • Post-show audience surveys measuring cultural relevance and perceived impact (target: 85% positive response rate)
GOAL 2: PRODUCE AND PRESENT AN ENGAGING SOLO SHOW.
We will support Ike Torres' development of a new one-man show.
Metrics:
• Minimum of 6 public performances
• At least 300 attendees
• Engagement of 8-10 paid local artists and collaborators • Post-show audience surveys measuring cultural relevance and perceived impact (target: 85% positive response rate)
GOAL 3: PRODUCE A SUCCESSFUL INTERCULTURAL FESTIVAL OF
THE ARTS THAT STRENGTHENS CROSS-CULTURAL
COLLABORATION.
We will convene partner organizations to present a week-long series of performances and a culminating community celebration.
Metrics:
• Participation of at least 4 partners
• 5–7 days of programming
• 900–1,300 total attendees across festival events
• At least 12 paid festival artists and 4 teaching artists/panelists • 10–15 local vendors and community partners at the block party • Documented increase in cross-promotional audience engagement (measured through shared mailing lists, social media analytics, and ticket origin data)
GOAL 4: INCREASE ACCESS TO ARTS PROGRAMMING FOR
HISTORICALLY UNDERREPRESENTED COMMUNITIES.
We will ensure that cost is not a barrier to participation.
Metrics:
• Minimum 30% of tickets offered free or at sliding-scale rates • One fully free public event (block party)
• Multilingual marketing materials distributed in community spaces • Audience demographic data collected voluntarily to assess reach across age, ethnicity, and income levels
GOAL 5: STRENGTHEN LOCAL ECONOMIC AND CIVIC VITALITY.
Through performances and public gatherings, we will contribute to increased foot traffic and local business engagement.
Metrics:
• Partnerships with local small businesses for cross-promotion • Vendor sales participation at the block party
• Audience survey question measuring whether attendees visited nearby ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
businesses before or after events
MAINTAINING FOCUS AND ACCOUNTABILITY
Internally, to ensure steady progress toward these goals, Teatro Espejo will:
• Establish a detailed production calendar with monthly benchmarks • Hold biweekly planning meetings during peak production periods • Conduct post-event debrief sessions with partners
• Review attendance and budget reports weekly
Optional File Upload:
Provide any
additional records to
supplement your
program/project
application. Note:
Combine multiple
files in one pdf
before uploading.
2 - Funding & Costs
Funding Request -
Complete this
section with total
dollar amounts for
your
project/program's
costs
Funds are generally not intended to be used for deferred maintenance and ongoing operational needs. The funds are intended for enhancing and investing in the City of Rancho Cordova. If your project/program is awarded, the costs identified below would be reviewed and potentially open to modification during a contracting phase (if a grant is awarded by the City Council). If awarded, grant funds are not available until a contract is executed during Fiscal Year 2026-2027.
Total project/program
cost*
54760
What is the amount
of Community
Enhancement &
Investment Fund
grant monies
requested?
35000
Does your
project/program
involve construction
of any facilities or
improvements upon
any property?
No
What is the total cost
of personnel for your
project/program?
37200
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
What is the total cost
of supplies for your
project/program?
4800
What is the total cost
of transportation for
your
project/program?
1200
What is the total cost
of equipment for your
project/program?
1750
What is the total cost
of any miscellaneous
expenses for your
project/program?
9810
Upload your project/program's budget as a .pdf file. Include the categories and their dollar amounts along with information about any other funding sources to demonstrate your project/program's total budget. Note, the sum of all categories must match the total project or program cost, or the amount requested of CEIF if there is no other funding source. Please clearly illustrate any matching funds or funding from other sources in your project/program budget, including in-kind sources. Note: Combine multiple files in one pdf before uploading.
Teatro_Espejo_Project-Program_Budget.pdf
Has your
organization sought
or will seek other
funding for this
project/program?
Yes, actively seeking funding support or have secured additional funding support for this project/program.
Describe any funding
secured or being
sought for this
project/program.
Teatro Espejo maintains diverse income streams to support our robust season programming. For Season 51, we have pursued or will pursue the following revenue generators, all of which are currently pending/projected:
CONTRIBUTED INCOME
Sacramento County
California Arts Council
National Association of Latino Arts & Culture
Costco Foundation
Individual Donors
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
Please describe any
ongoing operations
and maintenance
costs beyond Fiscal
Year 2026/2027, if
applicable.
Teatro Espejo’s season does not create any long-term capital improvements or facility obligations that would generate ongoing maintenance costs beyond the grant period.
Ongoing operational costs associated with Teatro Espejo’s annual programming include typical artistic and administrative expenses such as artist stipends, venue rentals, insurance, marketing, and production materials. These recurring costs are incorporated into our standard annual operating budget and supported through a combination of ticket revenue, individual giving, government grants, foundation support, and partnerships.
Because this project relies on short-term venue rentals and temporary event permits rather than permanent installations, there are no additional maintenance, repair, or long-term upkeep expenses anticipated beyond Fiscal Year 2026–2027.
Do you have
volunteer or in-kind
support for your
project? This could
include volunteers for
an activity/event that
is ongoing or a onetime experience.
Yes
Please share the
total dollar amount
for volunteer/in-kind
support using $34.79
as the national rate
for a volunteer hour.
Source: Value of
Volunteer Time
2922.36
Please provide a worksheet explaining your volunteer/in-kind contribution. You may upload a file in the following formats: CSV, DOC, DOCX, or PDF.
Teatro_Espejo_Volunteer_Hours.pdf
Is this a single year
request or a request
for funding for
multiple years?
Single Year
Has your
project/program
received funding from
the Community
Enhancement &
Investment Fund
previously?
No
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
3 - Project/Program Details Grant applications are typically approved to occur between July 2026 through June 2027. What is your plan to complete this project/program within this time frame?
Anticipated Start
Date (July 1 is the
soonest available
start date)
8/20/2026
Anticipated End Date
(typically
projects/programs
end by June 30)
6/10/2027
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
Please describe your
project/program
schedule
AUGUST-SEPTEMBER 2026
Pre-production for the collectively created original play. Teatro Espejo will convene participating artists for story circles, research sessions, and creative development workshops. During this period, the artistic team will define themes, structure, and production needs. Key production personnel will be contracted and rehearsal schedules finalized.
OCTOBER 2026
Full rehearsals for the original play begin. Production elements including scenic, lighting, costumes, and sound will be built and finalized. Marketing efforts intensify, including multilingual promotion, social media campaigns, and community-based outreach.
NOVEMBER 2026
Public performances of the original play will be presented in Rancho Cordova. Post-show talkbacks and audience surveys will be conducted to measure impact and engagement.
DECEMBER 2026
Rehearsals for Ike Torres’ Humanidad begins.
JANUARY 2027
Public performances of Humanidad will be presented in Rancho Cordova.
Post-show talkbacks and audience surveys will be conducted to measure impact and engagement.
FEBRUARY-MARCH 2027
Planning and coordination for the Intercultural Festival of the Arts will take place in collaboration with partner organizations. Artistic curation will be finalized, festival artists and vendors confirmed, permits secured, and production logistics completed. Cross-promotional marketing campaigns will activate shared audiences.
APRIL-MAY 2027
The Intercultural Festival of the Arts will be presented as a week-long series of performances culminating in a free community block party and marketplace. Attendance tracking, documentation, and community engagement activities will be conducted throughout.
JUNE 2027
Project evaluation and reporting. The team will hold partner debrief meetings, review attendance and survey data, reconcile budgets, and prepare final reports. Findings will inform planning for the following season.
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4
What challenges do
you anticipate in your
project/program's
implementation?
What is your plan to
complete your
project/program
should those or other
challenges arise?
As a small, artist-led organization, the primary challenges we anticipate involve funding timing and audience development.
FUNDING AND CASH FLOW
As with many nonprofit arts organizations, grant disbursement timelines and reimbursement-based funding can create temporary cash flow challenges.
Response: Teatro Espejo maintains a diversified funding strategy that includes individual donations, earned income, and government support. The project budget is built conservatively, and programming can be scaled proportionally to confirmed revenue. If necessary, production elements such as design scope, marketing spend, or number of performances can be adjusted without compromising artistic integrity or community access.
AUDIENCE VARIABILITY
While previous iterations of the festival have demonstrated strong attendance, audience behavior can shift due to economic pressures and/or competing events.
Response: Our outreach strategy prioritizes direct, relationship-based engagement through partner organizations, community leaders, churches, schools, and small businesses. We will employ multilingual marketing, sliding-scale ticketing, and free public components to reduce barriers to participation. Should attendance projections shift, we will increase targeted outreach and leverage partner mailing lists and cross-promotion.
EXTERNAL FACTORS
Unforeseen circumstances such as venue availability changes, permitting delays, or public safety considerations may arise.
Response: We secure permits and venue contracts well in advance and maintain open communication with venue partners and the City. Backup dates and alternative space options will be identified during early planning stages to ensure continuity.
Teatro Espejo’s 50-year history demonstrates resilience and adaptability.
Our implementation strategy emphasizes early planning, shared leadership, fiscal conservatism, and scalable programming. Should challenges arise, we are prepared to adjust responsibly while ensuring that the core goals of artistic excellence, community access, and intercultural collaboration remain intact.
How many individuals
does your
project/program
serve?
1,900
How many Rancho
Cordova residents
does your
project/program
serve?
1,200
ITEM 3.1. ATTACHMENT 4