HomeMy WebLinkAboutPRC 03-05-2026 Presentations
PRC Meeting
March 5, 2026
Presentations
Item #4
Fiscal Year 2026-2027
Community Funding Grant
Applications and Program
Evaluation Process
FY 2026-2027 Community Funding
Grant Applications and
Evaluation Process
March 5, 2026
•Application Summary
•Grant Applicants & Org Presentations
•Commissioner Clarifying Questions
•Eligibility
•Evaluation Process
Agenda
Application Summary
•22 applications received
New Applicants Returning Applicants
•Blue Leaf Labs
•Teens Talk
•Colorful Minds
•FoodLifts
•Mind4Youth
•SunflowerMagic
•Cupertino Host Lions Club
•Institute for the Study of Western
Civilization
•American Legion Post 642 Cupertino
•Bay Area Cats
•Fremont Union High Schools
Foundation
•Los Angeles National Division League
•Tessellations School
•Wolfpack Pentathlon Club
•Active Circle
•Cupertino Symphonic Band
•Remember the ToothFairy
•Rotary Club of Cupertino
•AINAK
•No Time to Waste
•West Valley Community Services
•Heart of the Valley Services for Seniors
Blue Leaf Labs
•New Applicant
•OsmoFlux: Energy Recovery from
Desalination Brine
•Project Duration: September 2025
–May 2026
•Requesting $750 –Tier 1
•Cupertino Residents Served –60
•Eligibility Pending
•Direct project impact on
Cupertino community unclear
•Confirm project dates
Cupertino's Water Future Has
a Brine Problem
OsmoFlux: Energy Recovery from Desalination Brine
Valley Water's Challenge
•Valley Water supplies Cupertino's drinking
water
•Desalination is in their long-term supply plan
(2021 Water Supply Master Plan)
•Brine disposal is a major cost and
environmental concern for ratepayers
Blue Leaf Labs
•Cupertino -based nonprofit (501(c)(3))
•Applied environmental and energy research
•Founded by Monta Vista High School student
Rohan Agarwal | Blue Leaf Labs | blueleaflabs.org
What OsmoFlux Does
Can desalination brine be turned from a waste liability into a partial energy asset?
Computational Model
•Physics-based simulation of
reverse electrodialysis (RED)
•Evaluates real plant conditions
including Valley Water's brine
profile
•Identifies where energy
recovery is viable -and where
it isn't
Physical Prototype
•Modular benchtop RED stack
built and tested locally
•Validates computational
predictions with real
measurements
•Hands-on demonstration tool
for classrooms
Public Results
•Open-source model and data -
freely accessible
•Plain-language documentation
of findings
•Educational materials for
students and educators
Where the $750 Goes
100% materials and equipment —zero administrative overhead
Budget Item Cost
Ion-exchange membranes (CEM + AEM)$225
Electrical $100
Consumables $100
Acrylic plate and mesh $100
Gasket and tools $150
Total $750
Funding Context
•Total project budget: $1,500
•City request: $750 (50%)
•IRPD course grant: $220 (awarded)
•Personal + family: $530
0%
administrative costContingency$75
What Cupertino Gets Back
Open Research Data
Model, code, and data published openly —any
Cupertino resident, student, or educator can
access and use it
Classroom Demonstration
Physical prototype available for hands-on
demonstrations at Monta Vista and FUHSD
schools
Community Events
Presentation at FUHSD Climate Collective Earth
Day 2026 and other local venues
Locally Relevant Analysis
Valley Water's own brine characteristics modeled
-data that informs infrastructure decisions
affecting Cupertino ratepayers
Built in Cupertino. Shared with Cupertino. Stays in Cupertino.
Teens Talk
•New Applicant
•Cuper-Teens Got Laughs! –
Program that promotes youth
engagement and community
well-being
•Event Date: October 24 or 25
•Requesting $450 –Tier 1
•Cupertino Residents Served –
250
•Eligible
Mar 5th, 2026
By Teens Talk
Presented By:Bingchen Hu
Cuper -Teens Got Laughs!
Non -profit founded by local high
school students
Started from teens comedy club
Creates fun events for local
10,000+ teenagers
Advocates for teen voices
Who is Teens Talk ?
22 performances
5 local high schools
300+ attendances
Mayor’s Initiative
2025 Cuper -Teens Got Laughs!
2025 2026
VENUE RENTAL $0 $400
MATERIALS
EQUIPMENTS $150 $200
SNACKS
GIFTS TO GUEST
SPEAKERS
$200 $300
TOTAL $350 $900
2026 Event Budget Forcast
so muchThank you
Colorful Minds
•New Applicant
•Colorful Minds –Art workshops
for neurodivergent children
•Program Duration –Year Round
•Requesting $1,500 –Tier 2
•Cupertino Residents Served –34
•Eligible
COLORFULMINDS
OUR ORGANIZATION
501(c)3 certified non-profit aimed at providing asafe space for neurodivergent children throughcreative self-expression
WORKSHOPS
Held on Sundays @ Cupertino LibraryPACE WorkshopsExploration of various mediums: painting,sculpting, coloring, scratch art, doodling
1.
EVENTS
2024: SARC’s Superhero Summer Festival +Holiday Craft Fair2024: Artworks for Clinics2025: SARC’s 9 Annual Superhero SummerFestival
th
2026: Community Event 2026: West Valley NW SELPA 2026Recreational Resource Fair
2.
FUNDING USE
Funding will be used for the materials/equipmentused during our workshops including acrylic paint,cavases, modeling clay, etc. (~$1,200)
1.
Funding will also be used for renting therooms/venues in order to hold the workshops forour students and volunteers (~$300)
2.
ADDITIONAL INFO
All of our volunteers and staff are highschool studentsWe’re based in cupertino library, but wedon’t have an exact number of cupertinoresidents in our studentsWe’ve only recieved money from donations
THANKYOU!
FoodLifts
•New Applicant
•Foodlifts -Produce recovery
program which collects excess
produce at farmers markets to
food banks
•Program Duration –3 to 4 years
•Requesting $2,500 –Tier 2
•Cupertino Residents Served –1,500
•Eligibility Pending
•Verify if funds going to operational
costs
Foodlifts
www.foodlifts.org
Fresh Food. Fresh Start.
F o o d l i f t s
Our Mission
11%
Of all food waste comes from
grocery stores/farmers' markets
Tons of food waste comes from
Santa Clara County Alone
F o o d l i f t s
03
How it works
Rescue Transport Deliver
3
1
2
Collect at Markets
4
Transport with Care
Deliver to Partners
Feed the Community
F o o d l i f t sOur Impact
538 Lbs
Produce Recovered So Far
2 Food Banks
West Valley Community Services
and Martha’s Soup Kitchen
2.8 Lbs
Co2 Saved for every pound
rescued
02
Collection Equipment
60%
Transportation
32%
Tech
4%
Volunteer Safety
4%
Funding Breakdown -$2500
1 Heavy-Duty Stackable Crates
Collection Equipment - 60.2%
2
Rolling Utility Carts
$1,500
2
Transportation - 32.1%
1
2
U-Haul Car Rentals
Fuel Costs
$800
$150
1
2
Food Safety Equipement
Vests
3 Gloves
Volunteer Safety Gear - 4%
$50
Software Management - 4%
1
2
Website and Domain Hosting
Volunteer Scheduling
3 Data Integration
3
Outreach4
Thank
You
F o o d l i f t s
www.foodlifts.org 10
Mind4Youth
•New Applicant
•HeartCare -Program delivers
mental health resource kits to
youth from underrepresented
and low-income backgrounds.
•Program Duration: 9 months
•Requesting $2,500 –Tier 2
•Cupertino Residents Served –
1,500
•Eligible
Mind4Youth
Mental Health Resources for All Youth
HeartCare Program
●Distributes mental wellness kits to
youth to promote awareness and
make resources accessible
●Includes slime, handmade cards by
other youth with uplifting
messages, awareness
merchandise, bath bombs from
Lush, and BetterHelp therapy
vouchers
5,100+
HeartCare Kits Distributed Across North America
20% Youth
Homeless Shelters
In Santa Clara County: Bill Wilson
Center, Sobrato House, Covenant
House of CA, & more
Kit Distribution Plan
Special programs in the FUHSD &
CUSD Districts (ESL, Special
Education, At-Risk Programs)
80% Middle and
High Schools
Hold Volunteer Events Engaging 150+
Cupertino Residents
Budget Overview
Kit Materials
Volunteer Events
Transportation
90%
8.4%
1.6%
$2,500 TOTAL
Kit Material Breakdown
Kit Boxes $480
Slime $550
Mental Health Wristbands $250
Mental Health Stickers $120
Better Help Vouchers $136
Mind4Youth Stickers $240
1,400 Kits
Distributed with the help of the City of Cupertino
and a $2500 grant!
SunflowerMagic
•New Applicant
•Driving our seniors to visit places
•Program Dates: Full day or half
days
•Requesting $1,000 –Tier 2
•Cupertino Residents Served –9
•Eligible
SunflowerMagic.net
A Non‑Profit for the Health, Education and Well‑Being of Seniors
Registered 501(c)(3)
Tax ID: 33-2638763
"Every senior deserves joy, movement, and connection."
About SunflowerMagic
SunflowerMagic.net is a community initiative dedicated to supporting the physical, emotional, and social well‑being of seniors.
• Encouraging active lifestyles
• Creating joyful community connections
• Promoting lifelong learning
• Celebrating senior talent and creativity
Our Daily Health Program
Since 2021, every morning begins with joyful movement for seniors.
Daily activities include:
• Cardio
• Aerobics
• Toning exercises
Fun‑Foto: Our Daily Joy Library
Our daily class 'Fun‑Foto' captures moments of laughter, movement, and happiness.
The library showcases:
• Exercise and dance sessions
• Senior participation highlights
• Community celebrations
Technology for Seniors
SunflowerMagic is expanding with technology classes for seniors.
Planned learning areas:
• Basic computer skills
• Smartphone usage
• Online communication
Senior Dance Performances
Our seniors learn beautiful dance choreographies and perform across the Bay Area.
2025 Achievements:
• 25+ major stage performances
• Standing ovations at every event
• Celebrating talent, confidence, and joy in senior life
Why Movement Matters for
Seniors
Research shows:
• Regular exercise can reduce risk of falls by up to 30%
• Physical activity improves heart health and mobility
• Dance improves balance, memory, and coordination
• Active seniors report higher life satisfaction
The Power of Social Connection
Loneliness can significantly affect senior health.
Studies show:
• Social isolation increases risk of dementia by ~50%
• Connected seniors live longer and happier lives
• Group activities improve emotional well‑being
Our Mission
To help seniors feel:
• Alive
• Connected
• Respected
• Celebrated
Support Our Mission
SunflowerMagic.net is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit.
Your contribution is tax‑deductible to the extent allowed by law.
Tax ID: 33-2638763
Cupertino Host
Lions Club
•New Applicant
•Fish-A-Thon -outdoor
recreation experience for
individuals with special needs
•Event Date: April 25
•Requesting $5,000 –Tier 3
•Cupertino Residents Served –10
•Eligible
Lions International
British Isles
Lions motto
Lions are ordinary people who achieve
extraordinary things by helping others and
supporting good causes.
1.4 million Lions serve local communities
in 200+ countries and geographic areas
worldwide.
We Serve
2
Lions global
causes
3
Together we tackle five causes, locally
and globally.
DIABETES
We help to
prevent diabetes
and improve the
quality of life of
people living
with a diagnosis.
CHILDHOOD
CANCER
We help to
address causes of
cancer and
improve the future
of young patients
and their families.
ENVIRONMENT
We help to protect
and restore our
environment
sustainably and
improve
community well
being.
HUNGER
We help to
address hunger
and improve
the availability
of nutritious
food.
VISION
We help to reduce
avoidable
blindness and
improve the lives
of those affected
by visual
impairments.
Thank you for listening
Produced by the Lions Marketing & PR Team
Institute for the
Study of Western
Civilization
•New Applicant
•Continuing Education (C.E.)
units for our Institute Scholarship
Program teachers
•Program Duration: June1-30
2026
•Requesting $5,000 –Tier 3
•Cupertino Residents Served –25
•Eligible
•Confirm program dates
American Legion
Post 642 (Stevens
Creek)
Cupertino
•New Applicant
•Wreaths Across America
•Event Date: December 19, 2026
•Requesting $20,000 – Tier 4
•Cupertino Residents Served –
100
•Eligible
Cupertino Community Funding Grant Program
American Legion Post 642 (Stevens Creek) Cupertino
Wreaths Across America (WAA) Ceremony
Dennis Whittaker-WAA Chairperson
Our Organization
•Post 642 was founded in 1959
•Non profit 501C (19) Organization
•Has been financially supporting Veterans and community in the following areas
•Boy Scout Troops
•Local High School Juniors for the American Legion Boys/Girls State Summer Program
•De Anza College Student Veterans Scholarships and food pantry
•Fisher House and Defenders Lodge at Palo Alto VA
•10 Kirk Ave. Homeless Veterans Site
•Veterans Day Program at Cupertino Memorial Park
•California Veterans Home in Yountville, CA
•Paws for Purple Hearts
Wreaths Across America Ceremony
•Since 2016 Post 642 has locally sponsored “Wreaths Across America“
•Honors Military Veterans who served and are buried at our local Gate of Heaven Cemetery
•Wreaths Across America, started December 2008 at Arlington National Cemetery
•Our first year (2016), only 1100 cemeteries across the nation participated on the same December
day.
•In 2025 over 1,100 wreaths placed at Gate of Heaven by local scout units and community volunteers
•In 2026 projected 5400+ cemeteries will be involved in the event
•Wreaths are manufactured in Maine, transported to all participating ceremonies by volunteer truckers
•Currently 1935 Veterans are buried at Gate of Heaven Cemetery
Wreaths Across America Funding
•Total cost for Wreaths is $32,895
•$17 per wreath x 1985 = $32,895
•$5 of wreath costs returned to Post and spent on Veterans and Veteran programs in the community
•Historically donations are $13,000 yearly, last year we received $16,000
•Past and present local and community sponsors have been:
•Plumbers, Steamfitters and Refrigeration Fitters UA Local Union 393
•Vietnams Veterans of America Inc #201
•Cupertino DeAnza Lions Charities, Inc
•Cupertino Rotary
•Knights of Columbus St. Francis of Assisi Council #4981
•VFW Mission Santa Clara Post 3982
•United Veterans Council of Santa Clara County
•Goal is to place wreaths on all Veterans graves, and therefore are seeking assistance through your
grant program
Wreaths Across America Funding
•Marketing and Communications Strategy
•Previously advertised at the annual Veterans Day event at the Cupertino Veterans Memorial
•Have spoken publicly at various city council meetings
•Applied unsuccessfully for other local grants.
•Requested funds from families of loved ones at the cemetery
•Seeking help throughout our business community
•Publicized event and donations via
•Post Web Site
•Flyers
•Next Door
•Local publications
•Social Media
•Veteran, Church and community organizations
Wreaths Across America
•To follow the Mission of the National Wreaths Across America program... "Remember, Honor, and
Teach“
•We respectfully offer our grant request to help this year's program reach the ultimate goal to cover all
veterans gravesites at this year's December 19th event.
•We want to honor all who , over the years, have "sacrificed and signed a contract with our Nation with
a blank check made payable to the United States of America for an amount of up to and including
their life.
Wreaths Across America
Bay Area Cats
•New Applicant
•Prevention Program to Reduce
the Number of Unfixed Cats in
Cupertino
•Program Duration: 1 year
•Requesting $19,050 – Tier 4
•Cupertino Residents Served – 75
•Eligible
Bay Area Cats
Cupertino Spay / Neuter Project
Introduction
●Bay Area Cats is a volunteer-run 501(c)(3)
nonprofit reducing uncontrolled cat
populations through:
○Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR)
○Owned-pet spay / neuter
○Resident education
●In 2025 we assisted over 2500 cats:
○700 owned pets spayed/neutered
○1,300 cats through trap-neuter-return (TNR)
○500 cats and kittens rescued
Mission: To decrease the number of unfixed cats in the community
Proposed Cupertino Plan
●$19,050 to operate a one-year prevention
program in Cupertino
●One year goals in Cupertino:
○50 feral cats and 50 owned pet cats spayed/neutered,
vaccinated, microchipped
○25% reduction in cat-related Animal Control calls
●Work with field officers, dispatch, and SJACC
staff who will:
○Hand out flyers & business cards to Cupertino residents
○Direct Cupertino requests to our help form
(bayareacats.org/help)
○Forward found location of kittens to BAC
Cupertino Need & Impact
●SJACC is over capacity, and has no room for
intake of healthy stray cats or kittens
○Limited spay/neuter and TNR access
●Animal control does not assist with trapping,
found kittens, or transportation
●Reduces nuisances, diseases, shelter strain
●Aligns with General Plan safety/well-being
Proven Track Record
●BAC started targeted spay/neuter efforts in Cupertino in November 2025,
and has already spayed and neutered over 70 cats
○This is over the yearly average intake of Cupertino cats at SJACC, a contract that
Cupertino pays $340,000 for
●Replicates Sunnyvale success
○Fewer calls, maintenance mode,
city savings
○Sunnyvale: decreased in shelter
intake by 43% within three years
1181
Program Reach
●Hands-on support: handles trapping, rescue efforts,
and covers all costs
●Outcomes: cleaner neighborhoods, healthier pets,
fewer complaints
●Directly serves 75 Cupertino residents
○Many of these are low income residents
○Impact extends beyond individual households to
surrounding properties by reducing nuisance
complaints, disease risk, and uncontrolled
breeding
100% Direct Services
●$6,250 – 50 TNR surgeries
●$8,250 – 50 owned pet surgeries
●$2,550 – 30 humane traps
●$1,500 – microchips and vaccines
●Total: $19,050
Why this matters?
●One unspayed female cat can produce:
○3 litters per year
○4 surviving kittens per litter
○Kittens are breeding at 7 months
●Prevention:
○Reduces nuisance complaints
○Reduces shelter intake
○Reduces public health concerns
○Reduces long-term municipal cost
This aligns directly with Cupertino’s public health and community safety goals
Questions?
Fremont Union
High Schools
Foundation
•New Applicant
•Environmental Education
Classroom for the Fremont
Union High Schools District
•Program Duration: May 2026 –
June 2027
•Requesting $15,000 – Tier 4
•Cupertino Residents Served –
4,500
•Eligible
Community Fund Grant Request: City of Cupertino
Teacher Environmental Mini Grants Across Our Five High Schools
Requested by Fremont High School Foundation on behalf of
Fremont Union High School District
Cupertino High Fremont High Homestead High Lynbrook High Monta vista High
Los Angeles
National Division
League
•New Applicant
•Miami Kings All Star Weekend
Event
•Event Date: August 21-23
•Requesting $20,000 – Tier 4
•Cupertino Residents Served – 25
•Eligibility Pending
•Request does not identify a clear
impact to the Cupertino community
•Event ticket fee starting at $25
C U P E R T I N O
C O M M U N I T Y
F U N D I N G
S P O R T S &
E V E N T S
I N T R O D U C T I O N
Smart Pay Sports Club develops elite athletes with
world-class training in football, basketball, fitness,
and mental performance. Athletes receive business
and PR education, daily nutrition services, lifestyle
management, and access to sponsorships,
endorsements, and global competition pathways.
Good evening, my name is Rockelle Royal, and I
represent the Smart pay Sports Club & LA Kings
Basketball Team— a semi-professional sports
development club focused on professional league
competitions , entertainment marketing & event
programming, and community economic mobility.”
W H O W E A R E
O B J E C T I V E S
Smart Pay Sports Club operates in partnership
with professional leagues, city and regional
economic development organizations, cultural
institutions, venues, sponsors, and workforce
development partners to achieve these goals.
These partnerships ensure league compliance,
professional standards, community alignment,
and long-term sustainability. Core Strategic
Pillars
S p o r t s O p e r a t i o n s & T e a m D e v e l o p m e n t
L i v e S p o r t s & E n t e r t a i n m e n t E v e n t s
Sports Operations & Team Development Establish and manage semi-professional
basketball and soccer teams in partnership with recognized leagues and governing bodies,
delivering structured training, league participation, and athlete advancement pathways.
Produce live, ticketed sports and cultural events—developed in collaboration
with venues, artists, and community partners—that introduce Smart Pay Sports
Club teams and expansion opportunities to cities and stakeholders
E c o n o m i c , W o r k f o r c e & C o m m u n i t y I m p a c t
Work alongside public and private partners to drive workforce participation,
tourism activity, sponsorship activation, and local business engagement through
sports operations, media production, and live event execution.
P r o p o s e d
Team Registration Fees
Athletes Sports Practice & Competition
Facility
01 Sports Facilities
League Franchise Fee & Team Registration
Fees
Staffing & Employees
Work Force
Commercial workshop engagement &
marketing & promotion events
Events & Entertainment
SPORTS MARKETING & COMMUNITY ACTIVATION INITIATIVE
02
03 04
T h e P r o g r a m
W e ’r e R e q u e s t i n g
F u n d i n g F o r
F U N D S W I L L B E U S E D F O R :
Rental of facilities, including parks and gymnasiums
Purchase and maintenance of athletic equipment (balls,
training supplies, uniforms)
Staffing and employment-related expenses
Development and production of marketing collateral
Advertising placements and media purchasing
Community marketing and outreach to families in Cupertino
C o m m u n i t y
I m p a c t
Positively engage and serve at least 50 individuals
from the Cupertino community
Deliver 12 hours of structured, skill-based workshop
programming
Organize and host two community-focused events
that promote participation and connection
Actively involve families from multiple neighborhoods
to strengthen community ties
Identify and recruit emerging athletes by hosting
official tryout sessions, creating long-term pathways
into organized sports club participation
C u p e r t i n o C o u n t y
T h a n k Y o u F o r
Y o u r S u p p o r t
We respectfully request your support to
activate this community-based sports
initiative in Cupertino and expand
structured opportunities for youth and
families. Thank you for your
consideration.
Tessellations
School
•New Applicant
•Outdoor Theater
•Project Duration: Spring 2026
•Requesting $20,000 – Tier 4
•Cupertino Residents Served –
3,000
•Eligible
•Confirm project date
Cupertino Community Funding Grant | March 5, 2026
A Stage for Creativity.
A Space for Community.
Outdoor Stage Proposal
Our Why?
Tessellations is committed to holistically cultivating the full
development of gifted young people - nurturing their intellectual,
emotional, social, and physical growth.
At a glance
●Independent Pre-K–8 school serving gifted learners nested
in the city of Cupertino
●248 students; 1,000+ community members including
families and staff
●Mission: To nurture the full potential of gifted
youth—intellectually, emotionally, socially, and ethically
●Rooted in experiential learning, community connection, and
respect for nature
●A Cupertino school that opens its campus and events to
community learning and collaboration
At Tessellations, we cultivate not only academic excellence,
but belonging, creativity, and civic responsibility.
The Project: A Stage for Creativity. A Space for Community.
Our Goal: To create an outdoor space
that supports:
●Student arts instruction &
performances
●Multicultural celebrations
●Parent education & community
meetings
●Partnerships with local artists &
organizations
●Outdoor learning & gatherings for
students, families, and the wider
Cupertino community
●Promotes creativity, expression,
and community wellbeing
A shared space for the Tessellations students & the
Cupertino community to learn, create, and connect.
Lifelong Learning & Enrichment
●Builds confidence, public
speaking skills, collaboration
●Supports creativity and civic
engagement
This project advances Cupertino’s vision of a safe, connected, and vibrant community.
Alignment with Cupertino’s General Plan
Healthy & Engaged Communities
●A space where families &
neighbors gather through the arts
●Strengthens intergenerational and
intercultural connection
Future Collaboration: World Creativity & Imagination Week (Earth Day)
As a Cupertino educational partner, Tessellations would invite other students from
local schools to explore creative solutions for environmental stewardship and
share them with the community.
Environmental Stewardship
●Outdoor structure reduces need
for energy-intensive indoor
expansion
●Encourages outdoor programming
and connection with nature
Equity & Inclusion
●Accessible gathering space
●Honors the diversity of Cupertino
families through cultural
programming
This project advances Cupertino’s vision of a safe, connected, and vibrant community.
Alignment with Cupertino’s General Plan
Community & Education Partnerships. Tessellations has begun conversations with
Cupertino Union School District (CUSD) educators about potential collaborations in
environmental learning, innovation, and student showcases.
Who It Benefits
This project creates a welcoming, inclusive space that reflects Cupertino’s
values: education, creativity, sustainability, and community belonging.
Direct Impact
✔ 248 Tessellations students engaged
through arts learning, presentations, and
daily use
✔ Faculty and staff leading instruction,
mentorship, and programming
Community Impact
✔ Families and caregivers attending
performances and celebrations
✔ Neighboring Cupertino residents and
families invited to community gatherings
✔ Local students and educators
participating in collaborative programs
and events
Community Reach:
1,000+ people
connected annually
Wolfpack
Pentathlon
Club
•New Applicant
•Cupertino High School Facility
Rental for Spring, Summer, and
Fall Training
•Program Duration: March 2026
– November 2026
•Requesting $10,000 – Tier 4
•Cupertino Residents Served – 15
•Eligibility Pending
•Participation fee charged for
trainings
Active Circle
•Returning Applicant
•Neuro-Inclusive Picnic with
Purpose
•Program Duration: 4-6 annual
picnics
•Requesting $2,000 – Tier 2
•Cupertino Residents Served – 40
•Eligible
Cupertino
Symphonic
Band
•Returning Applicant
•Music, Band Equipment, Venue
Rental
•Event Date: September 2026 –
July 2027
•Requesting $4,870 – Tier 2
•Cupertino Residents Served –
500
•Eligible
Cupertino Community Funding Grant Program
March 6, 2026
•Originally founded by Cupertino HS alumni
in 1989.
•45+ active members: teachers, engineers,
designers, nurses, students.
•All volunteer members. Conductor is a performing
arts schoolteacher.
•Free concert performances throughout the year.
•Non-profit, funded by member dues and donations.
Summer Concert,
Memorial Park Amphitheater
Our story
Thank you for 2019, 2023, 2024, 2025 grants
Music
CSB expenses and funding sources
Top Annual Expenses 2025-2026
•Rehearsal space rental: $4,526
•Liability insurance: $2,852
•Venue rentals (4 concerts): $1,900
Top 2025 Funding Sources
•Annual membership dues: $5,400
•2025-2026 Cupertino grant: $3,000
CUSD Elementary School performance
and instrument showcase
2025 funding request
Sheet Music $1,400
Equipment $1,650
Quinlan Venue rental $1,020
Concert program printing $ 800
TOTAL $4,870
Morgan Hill July 4th Parade
We invite you to attend one
of our upcoming performances
•Mar 22, Children’s Concert, Quinlan, 3 p.m.
•May 17, Spring Concert, Sunnyvale Community Center, 3 p.m.
•June 11, Memorial Park Amphitheatre, 6:30 p.m.
•June 13, Golden Gate Park Amphitheatre, S.F. 3 p.m.
•October & December Concerts @ Quinlan, TBD
Thank you for your consideration
Remember the
ToothFairy
•Returning Applicant
•Dental Educational Outreach
Program
•Program Duration: Ongoing
•Requesting $2,000 – Tier 2
•Cupertino Residents Served –
1,500
•Eligible
Remember the
ToothFairy
City of Cupertino Funding
Request
Who Are We?
Remember the ToothFairy is a student-led nonprofit organization
organization working to instill healthy brushing habits in children
through early education and exposure.
Student-led: all of our Executive and Leadership team are made up of high
school, college, and graduate students!!
3 Service Programs to Achieve Mission:
Donation Program
Providing youth Smile Bags containing a toothbrush, tube of toothpaste, floss,
dental care guide, and a personal handwritten card to help them get started or
continue their dental hygiene journey.
Educational Outreach Program
Allowing children ages 5-11 (grades K-5) who have never visited the dentist
before to visit the dentist for the first time for a dental hygiene cleaning and
an oral health screening
Visiting elementary schools to deliver FREE oral health presentations to children
ages 5-11, teaching them how to have a good brushing routine and why it is
important through fun and engaging lessons, games, and arts and crafts.
Dental Treatment Program
The Statistics.
Recent data from the 2023-2024 Kindergarten Oral Health Assessment indicates that 26% of
kindergarteners in Santa Clara County had visible tooth decay.
Tooth decay is the most common chronic illness in children worldwide.
Impact of Poor Oral Health:
-Students with dental pain are 50% more likely to miss school
-Students with toothaches are 4x more likely to have lower grades
Early dental education.
Benefits of early dental education:
-Education leads to increased brushing and flossing habits
-85% of kids who have been taught dental hygiene brush
twice daily (only 60% of those who have not been taught brush
twice daily)
-70% of kids who have been taught dental hygiene brush
twice daily (only 40% of those who have not been taught brush
twice daily)
-Educated students and families are more likely to have
regular checkups
Studies have Tooth decay does not discriminate — children
across all income levels are affected, and every child deserves
the knowledge to protect their health. shown that
The Solution.
Dental education is not enough for it to stick in their heads.
We are combatting this by pairing dental education with fun and interactive games and arts and crafts. By doing this,
we hope that children will develop a positive association with dental hygiene that will last a lifetime.
Games they play:
-BINGO
-Jeopardy
These games are meant to help students use active recall in a fun way to remember what they learned
during our presentation.
Our Approach
Arts and Crafts we do:
-Tooth Fairy popsicle sticks
-Origami
-Dental Health posters
-Coloring pages
Arts and crafts are meant to be fun and build a positive association with dental hygiene. We have different
types of arts and crafts for all ages, from TK to the middle school.
AT THE END OF ALL OF OUR PRESENTATIONS, STUDENTS WILL RECEIVE A SMILE BAG FROM US. Each Smile Bag contains:
-A toothbrush
-A tube of toothpaste
-Floss
-A dental care guide
-A personalized, handwritten card from one of our volunteers that encourages students to continue brushing
This way, students can go home and practice what they learned immediately with the tools we gave them.
Our Approach Continued
Afterschool Partners
Some of the Schools We Have Visited in 2025:
-Allen at Steinbeck Elementary
-Booksin Elementary
-Reed Elementary School
-Williams Elementary School
-Graystone Elementary School
-Schallenberger Elementary School
-Los Alamitos Elementary School
-Canoas Elementary School
-Carson Elementary School
-Franklin Elementary School
-Captain Jason M. Dahl Elementary School
Schools We have Visited 2025
-Bracher Elementary School
-George Mayne Elementary School
-Ponderosa Elementary School
-Braly Elementary School
Kathryn Hughes Elementary School
-Millikin Elementary School
-Briarwood Elementary School
-G.W. Hellyer Elementary School
-Starbird Youth Center
-Morrill Middle School
-Christopher Elementary School
-
How the Funds Will be Used:
100% of the funds will be used to help support our programs. We will use the funds to:
-Assemble Smile Bags
-Buy arts and crafts supplies
-Maintenance and support of our Program (i.e. projectors, microphones, etc)
It costs about $2 per child per event.
Requested amount: $2,000
# of Children Served with this funding: 1,000
-We are projected to serve 2,400+ children across the South Bay Area in the year of 2026.
-4 presentations per month, 50 students per presentation = 2,400 students per year minimum
Remember the ToothFairy fully relies on its volunteers to handle all operations behind the scenes. That is why we
are able to dedicate all funds to directly fund dental treatments.
Rotary Club of
Cupertino
•Returning Applicant
•Pollinator Garden at McClellan
Ranch Park
•Project Duration: July 2026 –
June 2027
•Requesting $4,000 – Tier 2
•Cupertino Residents Served –
1,500
•Eligible
Community Funding Grant Proposal
Organization: Cupertino Rotary
•Service club of ~200 members. One club within Rotary International:
a global network of 1.2 million friends, leaders, and problem-solvers who see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting positive change – across the globe, in our communities, and in ourselves.
•Plan, fundraise for, and implement 50-60 sustainable charitable projects each year
•Projects are grouped into committees based on charitable giving in five areas of service:
•Climate Action
•Community Service
•Youth Service
•Workforce Development
•International Service
Project: Native Plant Pollinator Garden
McClellan Ranch Park
What: ~2,000 sq. ft. native pollinator garden that supports local biodiversity, enhances public open space, and serves as an ongoing educational resource for the community.
Volunteers will join in planting garden, while also learning about the critical role of native plants in supporting wildlife and improving ecosystem health
Why: Create lasting environmental stewardship ecological project in our community
Where: McClellan Ranch Nature Preserve in Cupertino; specific area that has been identified for rehabilitation by Cupertino P&R
How: Partner with Grassroots Ecology who owns tools, has established training/educational programing & leadership skills to implement and sustain this project with Rotary funding and organization of hands-on volunteers
Native Plant Pollinator Garden
at McClellan Ranch Park
•Strong alignment with Cupertino’s General Plan Principles supporting Vision 2040 objectives ‘advancing environmental sustainability, habitat restoration and community education’
•Benefit to all residents of Cupertino and the surrounding community
•Project will have lasting impact in the Cupertino community
•Provides Hands-on volunteer opportunity for
•Rotarians, Scouts/Youth, Community volunteers, 4-H, Grassroots Ecology. Public website for Volunteer sign up
(Estimate 100 volunteers)
•Matches Rotary’s Climate Action committee objectives
•Consistent with Environmental mission (seeking pollinator garden)
•Environmental educational is built into the Grassroots Ecology volunteer model
Proposed site - Green Area
Rotary Project: Green Area
Four Work Days:
-One Spring/Summer
-Three next Fall/Winter
Specific Breakdown of Funding
Budget for $14,450 Project
Budget is based on Grassroots
Ecology’s strong experience
with Rehabilitation work days at
McClellan Ranch and elsewhere
Grassroots is contributing $4450
(majority of administrative costs
of project)
Rotary funding responsibilities
are for materials and direct
service costs.
Value of volunteer time is not
included.
Cupertino Rotary fundraising total - $10,000
Request $4000 of Community Funding for partnership with City of Cupertino
BACKUP CHARTS
Native plant /Pollinator Garden
at McClellan Ranch Park
•Grassroots Ecology submitted a 2025 Golf Tournament Grant
•Scalable for a CA AOS project
•Good candidate Golf Tournament grant
•Non-profit organization (and new to Rotary)
•Project will have lasting impact in Cupertino - area community
•Provides Hands-on volunteer opportunity for Rotarians
•Opportunity for volunteer engagement with our Scouts/Youth
•Opportunity to introduce Rotary to other local volunteers from Public
•Good match with Climate Action AOS
•Consistent with Environmental mission
•Educational aspect is built into the Grassroots Ecology volunteer model
•Climate Action AOS has been seeking a pollinator garden project
Why Grassroots Ecology?
•Considered ‘Stewards of McClellan Ranch”
•Work cooperatively with Cupertino P&R
•Own master plan for McClellan ranch land rehabilitation
•Own non-consumable tools for project
•Developed/repeatable process; Land rehabilitation an ”Island at a time”
•Experienced staff/interns to train/educate volunteers & lead work days
•Onsite for project maintenance providing sustainability
•Established relationship with the plant nurseries that comply with Valley Water
requirements for this specific watershed
•AB506 Child Protection compliance in place to use minors as volunteers (Waivers,
Youth protection-trained Live scanned adults, insurance policy)
•Willing to augment project with their unrestricted funds for a partnership
AINAK
•Returning Applicant
•Eyecare & Eyeglasses
•Program Duration – July 2025 –
June 2026
•Requesting $6,500 – Tier 3
•Cupertino Residents Served – 15
•Eligible
•Confirm program dates
AINAK
C
O
P
Y
R
I
G
H
T
submit@myainak.org www.myainak.org 408-868-9428 Tax ID 81-0860783
Cupertino Community Grant
2026
“Empowering America withVision, OneIndividual at a Time”
A I N A K 2 0 2 5 A C H I E V E M E N T S
Celebrated the 5-year milestone of free
vision care services
Received Commendation from the Mayor
of the City of San Jose
Launched mass vision screenings using
refractometers
Strengthened collaborations and
partnerships with communities &
schools
Consequently, achieved linear growth in the
number of recipients.
AINAK PL ANS FOR 2026
Reach a milestone of up to 5000 mass vision
screenings
Continue to provide free eye exams and
eyeglasses to economically disadvantaged
school children and communities
Drive measurable improvements in youth
health, well-being, learning, and spor ts
participation through access to clear vision
No Time to
Waste
•Returning Applicant
•GRoW: Grocery Rescue Weekly
•Program Duration: 1/1/2026 –
12/31/2026
•Requesting $5,000 – Tier 3
•Cupertino Residents Served –
82,625
•Eligible
No Time To Waste – GRoW: Grocery Rescue Weekly
City of Cupertino Impact
1,720 meals
Weekly
6,880 meals
Monthly
82,625 meals
Yearly
About NTTW:
Providing donated food & goods for those in need.
Rescues surplus food from grocers, restaurants, hospitals
Delivers goods to shelters, food pantries, & low-income housing.
GRoW: Grocery Rescue Weekly
Recover from 12 grocers weekly
Deliver to 16 charities weekly.
480,000 lbs of food recovered yearly
400,000 meals provided yearly
City Funding Supports:
Daily program management & coordination.
Recovery, delivery & daily metric recording.
Gas, vehicle maintenance & insurance.
Food-safe handling & transport equipment.
West Valley
Community
Services
•Returning Applicant
•Gift of Hope
•Event Date: December 5, 2026
•Requesting $5,000 – Tier 3
•Cupertino Residents Served –
300
•Eligible
Heart of the
Valley Services
for Seniors
•Returning Applicant
•Independent Living for Seniors
•Program Duration: January
2026 – January 2027
•Requesting $15,000 – Tier 4
•Cupertino Residents Served –
115
•Eligibility Pending
•Application submitted past the
deadline on 2/2
Heart of the Valley
Services for Seniors,
Inc.
[Compassion in Action!]
Alma Soto, MBA
Executive Director
Heart of the Valley, SERVICES FOR SENIORS,
Inc. is a non-profit, community 501 (c)(3)
organization, committed to facilitating and
supporting independent living for seniors
in the West Santa Clara Valley.
Heart of the Valley Services for Seniors, Inc. (HOV) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit based in Santa Clara, CA, dedicated to enhancing the lives
of low-income seniors in the West Santa Clara Valley. Since 1987, we have provided essential programs and resources that empower
seniors to live independently and stay connected to their communities. With the support of hundreds of volunteers, we assist homebound
seniors with transportation, light home repairs, companionship, and mental health support—promoting independence, well-being, and
quality of life. As the senior population grows, HOV remains a vital advocate, ensuring seniors receive the support they need to age with
dignity.
Our Mission: what we do..
Heart of the Valley addresses the
urgent and growing needs of
low-income, mostly homebound
seniors in the West Santa Clara
Valley. Through our
volunteer-driven
programs—including transportation
for medical appointments, grocery
shopping, and essential errands,
friendly visits, assistance with
house projects and yard work, and
advocacy efforts—HOV helps
seniors maintain independence,
access healthcare, reduce social
isolation, and improve their overall
quality of life.
Our Benefit:
Demographics:
HOV serves all seniors who are 62 plus and are living independently in their homes in our
direct service area of the West Santa Clara Valley. HOV serves residents in the cities of
Santa Clara, Sunnyvale, Cupertino, Campbell, Saratoga, Los Gatos, Monte Sereno, and
West San Jose. Among our 800 clients, 50% are over 80, 77% are women, 83% are
widowed and live alone, 38% have no living relatives, 65% no longer drive, 66% live below
the poverty level, 33% are disabled, 25% are hard of hearing and 10% are blind.
Data and Statistics
●Aging Population in Santa Clara County:According to the Santa
Clara County Aging Services Master Plan (2019), the senior population
(65+) is projected to surpass 500,000 residents by 2040—a 78%
increase from 2010.
As this demographic shift accelerates, the demand for services that
support independent living, safety, and dignity is rising..
●Social Isolation Among Seniors- The Santa Clara County Social
Isolation Report (2020) found that nearly 1 in 4 seniors in the region
experiences social isolation, which increases risks of depression,
heart disease, and stroke.
●20% of all suicides in Santa Clara County have been among adults
older than 60.
●Transportation and Mobility Challenges:As seniors age, many face
mobility challenges. According to the Santa Clara County Mobility
Report (2021), this trend is also evident locally, with many seniors
unable to get to medical appointments or shop at their grocery stores
due to a lack of transportation.
How we operate
Volunteer Based Services
Community
Outreach and
engagement, locally, state
and national.
Volunteerism Services
All our services are
performed by volunteers
Offer more services with
more volunteerism..
Teams approach..
Clients
More volunteers, more
services which translates
into more clients in West
Santa Clara Valley.
HOV meets this need by deploying volunteers
directly to seniors’ homes, providing essential
support such as transportation, home
maintenance, and companionship.
HOV combats this issue through coordinated in-person
visits by trained volunteers, offering companionship and
customized assistance based on individual needs.
HOV’s volunteer-driven transportation program fills this gap, ensuring
seniors can access vital services and maintain their independence.HOV
directly addresses the daily challenges seniors face—social isolation, lack of
transportation, and difficulty maintaining their homes.
Why HOV is critical?-
History of Service
For over 38 years, HOV has provided critical, zero-cost services that enable seniors
to live independently and comfortably in their own homes. Our long-standing
commitment demonstrates both the growing need for these services among
low-income seniors and our organization’s ability—through dedicated staff and
volunteers—to effectively meet this need. Nearly four decades of continuous service
reflect HOV’s impact, sustainability, and unwavering dedication to the senior
community.
Project Budget
Thank you!
Eligibility
•Staff review (not final)
•17 applicants fully met eligibility
•5 applicants pending eligibility
•Final eligibility to be determined by the
Commission
•Commissioners to give a score of zero to
applications they do not deem eligible
•Commission will review scores to discuss further
Evaluation Process
•Commissioner clarifying questions and discussion of eligibility
•Public comment period
•Provide staff with total for each application
o X/100
•Staff will compile Commissioner data
•Commission discussion
o Review compiled data
o Opportunity to adjust rankings
•Provide recommendation for City Council
April 2, 2026 P&R Meeting
Questions?
PRC Meeting
March 5, 2026
Presentations
Staff and Commission
Reports
Liaison’s Update
March 5, 2026
Parks and Recreation
Commission
Commissioner Trainings
Annual City Commissioner Training
•Monday, March 30
•6 to 7 p.m.
•Community Hall
•In accordance with the City Council
Procedures Manual, this is a mandatory
annual training session for all Commission
and Committee members.
Parks and Recreation Events
Big Bunny 5K
•Saturday, March 7
•5K 8:30 a.m.
•Kids Fun Run 9:30 a.m.
•Cupertino Civic Center
•Register at reg4rec.org
•More information at
cupertino.gov/bigbunny5k
Parks and Recreation Events
Teen Resource Fair
•Saturday, March 21
•Noon to 3 p.m.
•Main Street Cupertino
Parks and Recreation Events
50+ Golf Tournament
•Wednesday, April 1
•10 a.m. to Noon
•Blackberry Farm
Golf Course
•Register at reg4rec.org
Parks and Recreation Events
Earth and Arbor Day Festival
•Saturday, April 4
•11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
•Cupertino Civic Center
Parks and Recreation Staffing Updates
Carolyn McDowell
Assistant Director of
Parks and Recreation
Zoe Keeley
Recreation Coordinator
Senior Wellness Division
Reminders
City eNotifications
•Sign up to receive updates on various community
events and public meetings throughout the City.
•cupertino.gov/enotification
Cupertino 311
•Report community issues.
•cupertino.gov/311 or Download Mobile App
International Travel
•Email helpdesk@cupertino.gov with your travel dates
and location(s).
Reminders
Parks and Recreation Spring 2026
Recreation Schedule
•Activities start Monday, March 30
•cupertino.gov/recschedule
City Offices and Facilities Closed
•Tuesday, March 31 in observance of
Cesar Chavez Day
•Normal Operating Hours –Blackberry Farm Golf Course
and Sports Center