Allocations Committee: First Week Concludes

The first week of allocation committee meetings has concluded. Before it began, I was instructed to pick up my packets.  Boy was I surprised when they handed me the materials we would be reviewing in a BOX.  Initially I was shocked at the sheer volume and weight of all the materials we collect from each agency, but now I understand the need to look closely at details … not to scrutinize, rather to learn about what each one is currently doing, to brainstorm improvements, and to compare notes about what is working in our community on Kaua’i.  Sometimes we can learn the simplest things by listening…for example, Catholic Charities, one of our current participating agencies, does not serve only the Catholic community….they serve anyone and everyone.  Truthfully I imagined them in a church somewhere.

We met with 5 agencies per day, 45 minutes each agency. We combed through budgets, new programs, and were entertained by power points and visual displays. It seems all the agencies have felt the strain of the economy in their fundraising efforts, grant funding, and government subsidies.  We empathize on the committee because we know how difficult it has been to ask for money when it seems everyone around us has needs that should be addressed in a perfect world.  I commented to Scott Giarman, executive director, how many of the agencies serve the same issues such as; abuse, addiction, criminal rehabilitation, financial assistance and homelessness. He responded that each of our participating agencies addresses needs at different levels, different stages, and different ages.   Funny, I thought to myself, that is so true. There was one consistency with all the agencies, however, and that was the feeling of responsibility for the Kaua’i ohana.  Agency after agency stressed how despite the downturn of the economy they have simply gotten more creative about covering the needs of our community; they have been pooling resources and reaching out to each other more then ever.  Working valiantly together, they are all determined to help.

Lori Almarza, office manager, has vowed to find a way to save trees and everybody’s time and stress by doing it online next year.  (She is a gregarious addition to any group with a contagious laugh BTW). I never would have guessed she is also an undercover tree hugger.