Building Job Training Capacity in Kansas

Priority Outcomes in Kansas: Fostering Stronger Communities through Targeted Investments ## Achieving Meaningful Change in Kansas through Strategic Grantmaking ## Measuring Success in Kansas: Key Outcomes and Indicators ### Priority Outcomes in Kansas: Overview The Kansas grant program, funded by a Banking Institution, aims to support and benefit areas including education, medically-diagnosed special needs populations, and youth development. To achieve this goal, the program focuses on specific priority outcomes that align with the funder's mission and objectives. By targeting these outcomes, grantees can create meaningful, lasting change in Kansas communities. One of the primary priority outcomes in Kansas is improving educational outcomes, particularly in the areas of literacy and secondary education. Kansas has seen a significant increase in high school graduation rates, with the Kansas Department of Education reporting a 91.4% graduation rate for the class of 2022. However, there is still a need for targeted interventions to support students who are struggling with literacy and other academic challenges. Grants that support evidence-based literacy programs, after-school tutoring, and mentorship initiatives can help address these needs. The Kansas Department of Education's Literacy Initiative is one example of a state-level program working to improve literacy outcomes across the state. Another key priority outcome in Kansas is supporting youth development programs that provide safe, engaging environments for young people to learn and grow. Kansas 4-H, a youth development program administered by Kansas State University, is a notable example of an organization working to support youth development across the state. Grants that support programs like Kansas 4-H can help young people build essential life skills, such as leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving. In addition to education and youth development, the Kansas grant program also prioritizes support for medically-diagnosed special needs populations. The Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services (KDADS) is a state agency that provides services and support for individuals with disabilities. Grants that support organizations serving this population can help ensure that individuals with disabilities have access to the resources and services they need to thrive. To measure the success of these investments, grantees will be expected to track and report on specific outcomes, such as improved literacy rates, increased graduation rates, and enhanced job readiness skills. By focusing on these priority outcomes, the Kansas grant program can drive meaningful change in Kansas communities and support the development of stronger, more resilient communities. Kansas small business grants and grants for small businesses in Kansas can also play a role in supporting the local economy and fostering a more vibrant business environment. For example, the Kansas Department of Commerce offers various grants and incentives to support business growth and development. As the program moves forward, it will be essential to continue monitoring and evaluating the effectiveness of these investments to ensure that they are meeting the needs of Kansas communities. By doing so, the Kansas grant program can make informed decisions about future funding priorities and continue to drive positive change across the state. The Kansas grant program is not limited to nonprofit organizations; other entities, such as small businesses and local governments, may also be eligible for funding. For instance, the city of Wichita has received grants from the Kansas Department of Commerce to support economic development initiatives. Q: What types of projects are eligible for funding under the Kansas grant program? A: Projects that support education, medically-diagnosed special needs populations, and youth development are eligible for funding. Examples might include literacy programs, after-school tutoring initiatives, or support services for individuals with disabilities. Q: How will grantees be expected to measure the success of their projects? A: Grantees will be expected to track and report on specific outcomes, such as improved literacy rates, increased graduation rates, and enhanced job readiness skills. Q: Are there any specific state agencies or programs that grantees should be aware of when applying for funding? A: Yes, grantees should be aware of state agencies such as the Kansas Department of Education and the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services, which provide services and support for populations aligned with the program's priority outcomes.