20017-02-6 HCDP Community Action Guide FINALIZED 06.01.2018 FINAL

Home

2.1.5 Coordinate County Infrastructure ProjectF Similarly, the Action Committee also provides "timely recommendations to the County on priorities relating to the ... CIP budget and program...." Each year, the Action Committee will use CIP priorities identified in the CDP to recommend priorities for the County's infrastructure projects. 2.2 Other Potential Organizational Needs 2.2.1 Tax Exempt Status Implementation of the Hamakua CDP will require financial resources, and many funding sources require that a tax-exempt, nonprofit corporation (aka 501(c) (3) organizations) serve as the fiscal agent. It can be cumbersome and expensive to obtain and maintain tax-exempt status, so it may be wise to use existing organizations when possible. However, there may come a point where more sophisticated, community -managed organizations are needed. As outlined in Appendix V4C, cooperatives, community development corporations (CDCs), non-profit social enterprises, and community land trusts are tools that communities can use to lead and manage their own community improvement efforts. 2.2.2 Dedicated Staff Most community-based initiatives in Hamakua are lead and run by volunteers. There are many benefits to that approach, so it should be continued to the extent possible. However, many community organizations struggle because volunteer members lack time or skills. There may be a point at which it makes sense to rely on paid staff to play critical leadership roles related to securing financial assistance, managing contracts and finances, and provide other administrative support. 2.2.3 AmeriCorps Many community-based groups use the AmeriCorps2 program to bridge the transition from volunteer -led to staff -managed organizational structure. AmeriCorps volunteers typically serve full-time for a small stipend. Hawai'i currently offers four types of programs: • AmeriCorps VISTA: to create and expand programs that build capacity and ultimately bring low-income individuals and communities out of poverty; • AmeriCorps National Civilian Community Corps (NCCC): teams of 18-24 year olds to address critical community needs related to environmental conservation & stewardship; infrastructure; energy conservation; urban & rural development; and natural & other disasters (preparedness, mitigation, recovery, response); • AmeriCorps State: to assist youth achieve educational success; • Senior Corps: for individuals 55 or older to help the elderly live independently. Community Action Guide: 2018 8