Report Prepared by: Lamnguene Kindavong, Recreation Supervisor, Parks and Recreation
Title
SUBJECT: Accepting and Appropriating Grant Funding in the Amount of $3,000 from Merced County First 5- Community Engagement Event Sponsorship Program for Movies in the Park
REPORT IN BRIEF
Considers accepting and appropriating three grant funding sponsorships in the total amount of $3,000 from First 5 Merced County Movies in the Park to expand youth activities and supplies.
RECOMMENDATION
City Council - Adopt a motion:
A. Accepting grant funds from First 5 Merced County and increasing revenue in Fund 1018-Parks and Community Service, Contribution Account in the amount of $3,000; and,
B. Appropriating the same in Fund 1018-Parks and Community Service, Operating Materials, Services and Supplies; and,
C. Authorizing the City Manager to execute the necessary documents.
Body
ALTERNATIVES
1. Approve, as recommended by Staff; or,
2. Approve, subject to conditions other than recommended by Staff (identify specific findings and/or conditions amended to be addressed in the motion); or,
3. Deny; or,
4. Continue to a future meeting (date and time to be specified in the motion).
AUTHORITY
Charter of the City of Merced, Section 200.
CITY COUNCIL PRIORITIES
As provided for in the 2024-25 Adopted Budget.
DISCUSSION
The Children’s Bill of Rights’ Community Engagement Sponsorships Program provides financial support to organizations implementing community engagement events and activities that: Promote the Children’s Bill of Rights and connect families with children 0-5 years with available services that make the rights more of a reality for Merced County children. Funding under this program falls within First 5’s mission of “providing for the optimal physical, emotional and intellectual growth of the young children of Merced County” and aims to increase community level awareness and acknowledgement of the need to prioritize care benefiting our youngest kids (0-5).
Under this funding program, First 5 Merced County will support activities across a broad geography throughout Merced County, and partner together with a diverse group of organizations, groups, businesses, and other entities to engage community members and begin discussions around the Bill of Rights and children’s needs, and connect families with needed services.
The Parks and Community Services Department applied for a community engagement sponsorship program in April and was awarded for three Movies in the Park screening, awarding each movie $1,000, with a total of $3,000 to help cover costs associated with the Movies in the Park. Movies in the Park is a free, family-friendly event series hosted in local parks to provide accessible outdoor entertainment for residents of all ages. Designed to promote community engagement, this program brings neighbors together in a safe and welcoming environment to enjoy popular, family-oriented films under the stars.
Purpose:
The primary purpose of Movies in the Park is to offer a cost-free recreational experience that encourages families to gather, interact, and build stronger community ties. By utilizing public parks as event venues, the program also promotes safe and active use of city spaces.
Benefits:
• Community Engagement: Fosters a sense of unity by encouraging residents to come together in a relaxed, inclusive setting.
• Accessible Entertainment: Eliminates financial barriers by providing a no-cost option for family fun.
• Safe Recreation: Offers a structured, supervised space for families and children to enjoy evening activities.
• Increased Park Use: Encourages positive utilization of local parks and enhances public awareness of recreational resources.
• Support for Local Initiatives: Serves as a platform for community partners, local organizations, and sponsors to engage with the public.
• Cultural & Educational Value: Opportunities to feature diverse, family-focused, or educational films that reflect the community’s values.
Goals:
• Provide inclusive, family-oriented programming that is free and open to all residents.
• Strengthen community bonds through shared, positive experiences.
• Promote safe and consistent use of public park spaces during evening hours.
• Encourage alternative, socially enriching activities beyond home-based screen time.
• Develop and strengthen partnerships with local stakeholders who support community-building efforts.
This event is for all community residents and will be held throughout summer on Friday evenings at different park locations in the City of Merced.
IMPACT ON CITY RESOURCES
Once accepted and appropriated to Fund 1018-Parks and Community Services, Division 4030 (Recreation), this $3,000 will be available within the FY 2024-25 budget to help with costs for these particular event.
Recommendation A and B will require an affirmative vote of five council members.
ATTACHMENTS
1. Community Engagement Sponsorship Agreement (Moana 2)
2. Community Engagement Sponsorship Agreement (Mufasa)
3. Community Engagement Sponsorship Agreement (Sonic)
4. Movies in the Park 2025 Series