Issaquah Resources for Nonprofits
DSHS: We are pleased to announce that beginning with benefits in March 2025, we are transitioning eligible COFA citizens from our state-funded programs, State Family Assistance and the Food Assistance Program, to the federal programs TANF and SNAP. On March 9, 2024, the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024, changed immigration rules providing that Compacts of Free Association citizens of the Federated States of Micronesia, the Republic of the Marshall Islands and the Republic of Palau who lawfully reside in the United States are eligible for certain federal public benefits, including the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families. A change to the coding parameters in our eligibility system is required and has delayed implementation of this change. In the meantime, eligible individuals have been issued assistance from Washington’s state-funded programs. Full announcement HERE
DSHS: Federal work requirements for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program require participants who are able-bodied adults without dependents aged 18-54 to either work, participate in approved state programs or meet specific exceptions to maintain eligibility for Basic Food. If they do not participate, they are limited to three months of Basic Food during a 36-month time period. Full announcement HERE
KCRHA Update: To ensure efficient and fair funding of Severe Weather activities, King County Regional Homelessness Authority (KCRHA) will be using a new process going forward. This process will be used to identify a pool of qualified agencies to support the region’s emergency response to severe weather conditions and individuals experiencing unsheltered homelessness. Information session will be available where agency representatives will be able to receive an overview of the process and will be able to ask questions. Monday, February 24, 2025 Info Session – 12:00 pm PT – click here to register The 2025 Quarter One Severe Weather Request for Qualifications (RFQ) will identify agencies qualified to provide emergency services in response to severe weather. Qualified agencies will sign a Master Service Agreement (MSA) with KCRHA, if not currently contracted. Agencies with a current MSA will be required to apply through this process but will not need to sign another MSA until their current MSA expires. As funding becomes available, or need arises, KCRHA will run a shortened Request for Proposals (RFP) for agencies identified through this process. Agencies must be pre-qualified through an RFQ process to apply for severe weather funds going forward. KCRHA is seeking to pre-approve agencies for crisis response work in for Severe Weather Response which includes providing secure and dignified temporary emergency shelters and essential supplies for unhoused individuals seeking refuge from adverse weather conditions such as snow, smoke, extreme heat and cold, extreme wind or rain, and other severe weather events. For more information, see KCRHA’s Severe Weather webpage.
DAWN's DVI training Feb 4 - Feb 27, 2025
This hybrid training is guided by principles of trauma-informed advocacy, each session offers skills-based curriculum so we can we reduce violence in our community. This training meets state requirements for continuing education. Advocates, professionals, community members - this is your chance! Class Schedule: February 4 - February 27, Tuesday & Thursday 4 pm - 7 pm, Register today at: https://dawnrising.org/training/
WA Healthcare Authority: The Role of Work in Recovery March 13, 2025
This workshop will examine the important role that employment has on recovery. We’ll review this relationship as well as identify empowerment strategies that promote work and career goals. Participants will identify and learn how to counter common myths, while exploring the benefits of employment for people with mental health conditions. Objectives: • Review recovery and recovery-oriented mental health services. • Identify the key benefits of employment in recovery. • Review common barriers and strategies to supporting individuals in achieving career goals.
BSK: King County Perinatal Providers Gathering April 3, 2025
We’re excited to host our spring King County Perinatal Providers Gathering! This event is for King County birthworkers: doulas, home visitors, peer specialists, lactation consultants, midwives, and providers who support families during the perinatal period. It will be an opportunity for the perinatal provider community to gather, connect, learn, and share knowledge and experiences. We will have relationship building activities, lunch, and a discussion on navigating health insurances. Children are welcome! We will have a play space and snacks available. Time: 10:30 am – 2:30 pm Location: Mercer Island Community Center (8236 SE 24th St, Mercer Island, WA 98040) Register HERE
WA HCA: Mental Health Conditions and Behavioral Management in Supported Employment Programs: Practical Strategies for Success April 17, 2025
Washington Health Care Authority (HCA) Foundational Community Supports (FCS) team is presenting an employment focused webinar. This training is ideal for employment specialists, case managers, and mental health professionals who want to better understand the connection between mental health and workplace behavior, and how to effectively support individuals in reaching their employment goals. Individuals with mental health issues often face unique challenges in workplace settings, such as difficulties managing emotional regulation, overcoming social anxiety, or navigating workplace relationships. Understanding these challenges and learning effective behavioral management strategies are critical for professionals working to support individuals in achieving long-term employment success
501 Commons: Stay updated on executive orders affecting nonprofits
In recent weeks, a series of executive orders has been signed, addressing a broad range of issues, including DEI initiatives, federal funding, civic engagement, immigration, and others. Since this is a quickly-moving news story, we recommend you bookmark this PDF created by the National Council of Nonprofits that provides frequent updates of how these EOs affect nonprofits. Please note some of these orders haven't gone into affect yet, or are being challenged in the courts. NCN is also inviting organizations to share their stories of how these executive actions may affect their work.
Disability Empowerment Center is offering an increasing array of Consulting Services to businesses, government agencies and organizations. If your company has a goal of increasing accessibility in 2025, consider one of our services
Seattle/King County Coalition on Homelessness: Public Benefit Trainings
In partnership with Solid Ground’s Benefits Legal Assistance and REACH, we are pleased to host the Public Benefits Are Key! training series. This series is geared towards case managers working with people experiencing homelessness – both new case managers as well as experienced providers who have questions and would like additional support in navigating these resources. You will learn what you can do as a case manager to help your client navigate the benefits process, hear key tips for avoiding barriers, and learn when to contact an attorney. This will be a practical, hands-on training.
Check out all the Coalition’s past trainings and meetings on our YouTube – https://bit.ly/homelesscoalition-youtube
BSK: Culturally Responsive Measurement Tool – Protective Factors Information Session
The Culturally Responsive Measurement Tool – Protective Factors (CRMT-PF) is a survey with 22 questions measuring five protective factors: family resilience, knowledge of parenting & child development, social supports, concrete support, and caregiver/practitioner relationships. Watch the videos below to learn about the tool and visit the CRMT-PF blog post to learn more. Use the links below to access each training video:
501 Commons: A Compliance Notice from the 501 Commons Human Resources Program
Starting on January 1, 2025, Washington State’s minimum wage will rise to $16.66 per hour, a 2.35% increase from 2024. The pay threshold for an employee to be exempt also increases. In Washington, this is a factor of the minimum wage and will increase to $1,332.80/week (or $69,305.60/year) for small employers (1-50 employees) and $1,499.40/week ($77,968.80/year) for large employers (51+ employees). Anyone paid below these thresholds must be nonexempt and paid overtime regardless of their title or job duties. Check out the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) website for a salary threshold implementation schedule. As always, in addition to meeting the pay threshold, an exempt employee must meet a duties test and be paid the same amount weekly regardless of hours worked. Seattle, SeaTac, Tukwila, Renton, Bellingham, and Burien have (or will have) higher minimum wages than the state requires.
If you need guidance, tap our HR Quick Consults service by sending an email to hrconsults@501commons.org. You can receive assistance for only $25 per 15-minute increment. We can generally respond within 72 hours. Need HR assistance on a deeper level? 501 Commons team of HR experts worked with more than 150 organizations in 2024. We provide HR Consulting Services and an HR Partners program. The partners program provides ongoing support for hiring, employee relations, HR policies, compensation, performance management, and more. The program starts at $1200/month and is much less expensive than hiring internal HR staff. Begin a conversation with us today.
501 Commons: OMB makes updates to federal grantmaking rules Effective Oct 1, 2024
The federal Office of Management and Budget (OMB) recently published revisions to rules governing federal grantmaking to charitable nonprofits (as well as state, local, and Tribal governments) that will go into effect on October 1, 2024. The goal is to make the process of nonprofits receiving federal funding easier and more straightforward to manage. See these slides from a presentation delivered by the National Council of Nonprofits for more details. These changes should make it easier for smaller organizations and projects to receive federal funding, ensure the funds reach communities most in need, and reduce burdens on requirements and reporting for organizations seeking federal funding, as well as those already receiving federal grants. Under the current rules, organizations of all sizes have the same or similar requirements.
Find a Ride: New Trip Planner and Engagement Opportunities!
Our focus over the coming months is engaging with organizations who support King County travelers in their mobility and trip planning decisions. We are particularly interested in connecting with organizations and agencies who provide phone support and referrals for transportation. Using Find a Ride's trip planner in your day-to-day operations will provide a more accurate referral experience for your clients. As part of our "no wrong door" approach, we want to facilitate thoughtful handoffs between organizations and agencies. To arrange a demonstration and presentation of Find a Ride for your organization, please contact Laura Loe, Program Manager. Please email FindARide@hopelink.org or call 425-943-6760 and press 3. Find a Ride's service discovery website and trip planner contain transportation services across Pierce, King, and Snohomish counties. Visit www.FindARide.org for more information. Learn about our multi-phase roadmap and project updates at https://www.kcmobility.org/ococ.
Puget Sound Energy: Discounted Appliances to Nonprofits and other organizations
PSE Rebate Program Ends Dec 31, 2024! Available to nonprofits, faith-based organizations, public schools, city halls, fire stations, and all other government buildings. Alteza Restaurant Supply is a participating Distributor in the PSE Foodservice Instant Rebates Program and is currently offering nonprofit organizations within the PSE service area the opportunity to receive brand new freezers and fryers at no out-of-pocket cost! Here’s what you need to know:
Freezers Available: Organizations will receive freezers with only a flat curbside delivery fee of $500 for two or more units, or $250 for one unit.
Deep Fryers: Fryers are also available at no out-of-pocket cost and can be delivered with freezers at no additional delivery fees.
No Hidden Costs: Organizations will not be responsible for the remaining balance per unit, as we are seeking generous donors to cover this.
Eligibility: Freezers are eligible for a $3,000 rebate through the PSE Foodservice Instant Rebates Program, for PSE commercial electric customers only. Organizations with residential addresses may be eligible.
Pick-Up Option: Organizations can avoid delivery fees by picking up their freezers directly from our Renton warehouse.
As well as a helpful flyer with a QR code to fill out the form if that method is preferred. Disregard the fine print at the bottom of the flyer. That is for for profit business pricing only. For more information, contact me directly via phone or email.
WA Dept of Health Survey of Healthcare for Teens and Young Adults
If you provide health care services to teens and young adults, we want to hear from you! Share your thoughts on delivering health care to young people with the Department of Health so we can improve our programming.! Eligible providers can take an anonymous online survey, register for a listening session, or schedule a key informant interview. Follow this link for more information
Communities Rise 2024 Grant Writing Clinics
Our Grant Writing Clinics offer interactive sessions where you can learn the ropes, ask questions, and gain valuable insights into the art of grant writing. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting, this clinic is designed to empower you with the knowledge needed to secure crucial funding for your organization. Check out the full list of 2024 dates!
Hopelink Eastside Mobility Community Events
Is your organization interested in scheduling Mobility Outreach Events? Please reach out to me about these options, or how we may be able to tailor one for your organization. Heather Clark hclark@hopelink.org or at 425-626-6784 and let me know how I can help.
Getting Around Puget Sound (GAPS) Tabling Events – Join your special event and set up a table to share information about existing transportation options, reduced fare programs, and answer questions.
Travel Ambassador Trainings – As a “Train the Trainer” model, in person or virtual trainings on various transportation options and reduced fare programs.
Public Transit Orientations – These events involve taking small groups (no more than 12) on a short trip using public transit to help them learn how to use transit in a fun, hands-on way.
Department of Health FREE Test-&-Go 24/7 Accessible Kiosks
NEW Kiosks across the state will offer free COVID-19, flu tests, and healthcare supplies, 24/7. Accessible kiosks are in food banks, transit stations, churches, schools, and libraries. GENERAL INFORMATION for kiosks in your community/non-profit. REQUEST FORM for kiosks in your community/non-profit. Tests include COVID-19 rapid antigen tests, multiplex rapid antigen tests (detect flu types A and B and COVID-19), and self-swab PCR tests. Learn more: DOH COVID-19 Testing. DOH website. Public Health Connection Blog Sign-up.
Good Food Exchange is an online marketplace dedicated to keeping good food on plates and out of the landfill. This platform creates a space for farms, distributors, and other organizations with surplus or recovered food to find recipients who can use it to its highest value. Food businesses and food security organizations alike can use this resource to find and share offers for edible, free or low-cost food which may have otherwise gone to waste.
BSK: Home-Based Services strategy Community Meetings
We’re launching community meetings across the county to help us create a continuum of services for our Home-based Services strategy. Our Home-based Services strategy focuses on creating systems that provide parents with resources that support healthy births, parents’ knowledge and confidence, parent-child attachment, positive childhood development, and school readiness. Learn more about our Home-based services strategy by reading our one-pager here. Starting in October we will host meetings with community organizations in different King County regions to support cultivating a collaborative and coordinated approach prior to the release of the Home-Based Services Funding Opportunity. We hope to invest in ways that inspires organizational cross-collaboration, rather than competition so families across our communities benefit and organizations have a strong referral system with one another. Register here for upcoming community meetings! Providers located and serving children and families in North and East King County will meet beginning October 14. Providers in Seattle and South King County will meet beginning October 21.
King County: Technical Assistance and Capacity Building Services Available for Nonprofits
King County and the Office of Equity and Social Justice are committed to investing in capacity building and infrastructure for community-based organizations awarded federal COVID-19 grants and contracts. To provide technical assistance and capacity building, King County has allocated $400,000 through 2022 to contract with organizations and businesses that have the expertise to provide services to potential applicants and grantees. If you’re interested in applying to receive services from one of our partners, please fill out the one page application form. Services include: • Grant-writing and grant budget development • Accounting • Grant Management • Designing data collection methods • Strategic planning • Long-term budget development • Governance structures • Standard operating policies and procedures • Staff structure • Technology solutions. For questions on eligibility, services provided, program timeline, and our partner organizations visit our website at kingcounty.gov. For further questions, contact us at oesjgrants@kingcounty.gov. I want to apply for technical assistance
ELAP: Recommended CLE for Pro Bono Attorneys: Trauma-Informed Advocacy
Many legal aid clients have experienced some form of trauma. We believe all pro bono attorneys should understand how trauma affects client-attorney interactions, which will make you a more effective advocate. Practicing Law Institute’s 1-hour CLE program “Trauma-Informed Lawyering: Strategies and Best Practices” is a must-watch for attorneys providing pro bono legal aid. It addresses how trauma can manifest in client relations and offers best practices for building trust with your clients. Read more about how to access this CLE on our blog.
3E Behavior Solutions - Professional Workplace Violence Mitigation and De-Escalation Education for Your Entire Staff
We reframe your staff's experience about workplace violence and teach them how to navigate acutely stressful situations in order to provide your organization with the safest and most positive environment to serve your communities. Reach out for more information on customized trainings, pricing options, and more.
Tesfa Program’s Ethiopian Outreach Guide
The Tesfa Program, developed this web-based toolkit to increase the capacity of providers, organizations, and decision-makers to better connect and serve local Ethiopian communities.
Share the guide with your colleagues, friends, and community!
Share your feedback — we want to continue to build on this resource! Please email Selam Misgano at smisgan066@gmail.com to tell us what you think. Do you know of similar projects? Who should we reach out to get this toolkit more widely utilized?
Invite us to present! To further spread the word of the resources and knowledge within the Outreach Guide, and our experiences serving community during the pandemic we are giving presentations to interested community members, public health and policy students, and health focused organizations, and coalitions, in and around Washington State. Email Selam Misgano at smisgan066@gmail.com to begin the conversation!
Sound Generations Geriatric Mental Health Specialist Workshops
Sound Generations has taken on the coordination of Geriatric Mental Health Specialist Workshops. These workshops have previously been coordinated by Karen Kent, LMHC, GMHS and more recently by Terri Haaga, MSW, LICSW, GMHS. These six-hour workshops held once a month provide licensed professionals with the opportunity to earn Continuing Education Units (CEU) and stay up-to-date on best practices in the geriatric mental health field. The classes offered qualify for the 100 hours of training required by the State of Washington for the Geriatric Mental Health Specialist certification.
Connect2Community Network Building the Foundation for a Healthier, More Equitable Community
We’re building a unified community information exchange (CIE) to enable care coordination between health, behavioral health, tribal, community and social service organizations in King County, WA. It will enable organizations to send, receive and follow up on electronic referrals, increase access to resources via a shared directory, and provide visibility of other organizations providing care. Find more information here. Check out our video!
InterConnection: Computer grants
are awarded to organizations that deliver necessary and valuable services to underserved communities like technology training, health care, education, and job training, but need upgraded computers to better manage their organization and improve their capacity to deliver those valuable services. Interconnection reviews nonprofit grant applications 4 times a year. Please read the eligibility information to make sure your organization is eligible. APPLICATION DEADLINES: February 28, May 31, August 31, and November 30
Communities Rise: Announcing a new Lease Amendment Toolkit for small businesses and nonprofits
Created in collaboration with the City of Seattle Office of Economic Development and Perkins Coie The Lease Amendment Toolkit is designed to give small businesses and nonprofits information and template documents so they can successfully negotiate payment plans with their landlords before the moratoriums are lifted.
WA State Surplus Program State Program Flyer - Federal Program Flyer - Veteran Program Flyer
Through the Dept of Enterprise Services (DES), all cities, counties, school districts, and most non-profits all qualify for the State Surplus Priority Program. These entities can take advantage of additional benefits available through Surplus Operations by requesting certain items before they become available for auction to the public. They also have a Federal Surplus Program as well. Small veteran owned business, educational nonprofits, nonprofit health institutions, nonprofit programs for the elderly, and veteran organizations are all eligible for the Federal program. Finally, for Veteran-Owned Small Business Programs they have a program where these small businesses can apply to receive federal surplus property through the Small Business Administration. For questions about these programs, you can reach out to agencysurpluspurch@des.wa.gov – a general mailbox that connects with the team at DES that supports this program.