R2002-102 AUTHORIZING SUBRECIPIENT AGREEMENT

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PROJECT DESCRIPTION � In February of 2000 the advisory board of Catholic Charities of Decatur launched a $300,000 Capital Campaign to secure funding to help the agency alleviate its need for space. A frugal and sensible plan was adopted which began with the purchase of the building to the east of the office. This building had formerly been a funeral home, and had housed offices for an insurance firm. It had been empty for several years. It is a one story, 6500 sq.ft. building that is ideal because of its proximity to the existing office. Architectural plans were drawn up to renovate the building and connect it to the existing ofFce. The plan calls for the buildings to share a front and reception area. (A brochure used for the campaign is enclosed.) The improvement plan calls for a waiting room for clients, handicap accessibility, and improved security for both staff and clients. It also will allow the Prescription Medicine Program to be situated in the office building. And, the plans include a viewing/play room that will be an asset for intern training and therapy. ' The Advisory Board launched a campaign to secure funding to improve services by expanding the building space. Three committees were organized to approach businesses and corporations, organizations and foundations, churches and individuals for financial support of this project. The board also held a wine and cheese party in May of this year, which raised $9,500. Despite the fact that the community was holding several other fund raising events at the same time, this campaign was able to raise $200,591 in donations and pledges. Catholic Charities of Decatur meets the needs of people in the city of Decatur and surrounding areas. The number of persons seeking help through the various programs increases every year. The physical capacity of the building currently used by the agency has been stretched beyond its capacity. The building originally was designed to be a synagogue and has been modified to use for social services. Every visitor, by clients, and by staff, easily sees the building's limitations. Supplies are stored in hallways, offices, and restrooms. StafF share space and can easily overhear voices from the next office and the hallways. Clients wait for help in chairs lined up along the hallway. The space is no longer conducive to the social service mission of the agency because it is overcrowded and overused. The purchase and connection of the two buildings with a common entry will provide space for the appropriate delivery of social service. In addi�on, it will provide a waiting room and security for staff and clients. Many of the programs have appointments in the evening when additional caution is required. The numbers of service requests grows steadily each year and the agency cannot meet these requests in the physical confines of the current office.