October 23, 2015 - Newsletter

Van to the Rescue!

How incredibly rewarding it is to give timely gifts to those in need! Earlier this week, Councilmember Jane Hague and I teamed up to deliver a desperately needed van to KidsQuest Interactive Children's Museum. KidsQuest is an award-winning hands-on children's museum that offers over 650 programs encouraging learning through play with an emphasis on science, technology, engineering, art and math (STEAM).

This summer, a hit and run driver totaled a KidsQuest van in the parking lot outside of the museum. KidsQuest previously used two vans every day for community outreach. Staff members at Kid's Quest have been scrambling for transportation and now thanks to the County Council's retired Metro VanPool program, they are able to reach the schools, community centers, festivals, and other places that are essential to their work. If you know of an organization that would benefit from a Metro VanPool donation please contact bryn.vanderstoep@kingcounty.gov or call our office.



(Pictured) From left to right: Councilmember Jane Hague, KidsQuest President and CEO Putter Bert, and Councilmember Reagan Dunn

2016 Community Service Area Grant Deadline

Use your creativity to support your community. It's easy!

Did you know the county gives out grants just for unincorporated communities? The Community Service Area (CSA) Grant program was started in 2010 with the goal of promoting "robust public engagement that informs, involves, and empowers people and communities." Local projects are eligible for grants up to $5,000. The application deadline is coming up fast! Community organizations have until 5 p.m. on Nov. 16 to apply. I would encourage anyone thinking of applying to check out the CSA grant website for funding criteria and application forms, as well as lists of past grant winners.

For more information: https://www.kingcounty.gov/exec/community-service-areas/engagement-grants.aspx or contact my office.