Coordinated by Harris County Department of Education (HCDE), the CASE for Kids Division (The Center for After-School, Summer and Expanded Learning) is to strengthen, support and sustain after-school programs and out-of-school time activities. CASE believes a quality out-of-school time program provides avenues for opportunities for youth to excel, explore, and expand their horizons before school, after school, on weekends, and during the summer.
CASE for Kids City Connections, is a new initiative funded directly by the City of Houston to support organizations that address the need for youth services outside the school day. Projects will take place in a variety of locations including schools, community centers, and churches. Grants are designed to 1) meet individual City Council district need’s and 2) provide prevention-based programming that addresses gaps in services to youth. Proposed projects must serve youth in grades K-12 before school, after school, on weekends or during summer hours. Some examples of out-of-school time activities that could possibly be funded through this new youth initiative include robotics camps, homework assistance, cheerleading/dance groups, and team sports.
To be eligible for funding, applicants are required to be a nonprofit organization designated by the IRS as having 501(c) 3 status for at least one year prior to August 2014. Applications will also be accepted from school districts, established charter schools, faith-based organizations, or civic groups. All applicants must serve youth located in the city of Houston.
To apply for funding, interested organizations will submit two documents for review, a formal application to CASE for Kids and a one-page letter summarizing the project directly to the City Council Member. Applications will be accepted on a monthly basis. CASE for Kids will review applications by city council district and will consult with each Houston City Council Member to make final selections for funding. Grant awards will range from $5,000-$15,000. Application forms and guidelines can be downloaded on the CASE for Kids website. For more information on City Connections, please contact CASE for Kids at 713-696-1331.
