Nonprofits banding together to better serve youth

Petaluma’s blessed with myriad nonprofits that provide a rich tapestry of programs and services for local youth. But what would happen if they worked together, filling unmet needs in a more strategic way?

It’s a deceptively simple concept, but one that takes plenty of planning. Since each nonprofit is so focused on their individual missions, the Petaluma Community Foundation has stepped in to facilitate “Stronger Together,” a new campaign that links eight charities in a way that allows each to support each other, while also bolstering their own program to better serve at-risk children.

“We all can get a little bit siloed when we’re doing our own thing,” said Marilyn Segal, executive director of PCF. “We’re stepping in to see if we can be more strategic with the resources available and the services each organization can offer.”

Boardmember Joel Fisher added, “Because we are connected with all of the nonprofits, we know where the greatest needs exist.”

For example, Mentor Me Petaluma was recently given permission to run the rundown Cavanagh Center, but the building is woefully in need of repairs. Meanwhile, Rebuilding Together Petaluma has access to a crew of volunteer construction experts who can help revamp the center’s kitchen using a $15,000 grant from PCF to buy new appliances and other equipment. PCF also plans to provide an additional $15,000 grant to help Mentor Me rehab other parts of the aging building.

“Petaluma Community Foundation is an invaluable partner to help make the Cavanagh Center a hub for educational and recreational activities,” said Deb Dalton, executive director of Mentor Me Petaluma.

Segal hopes the center will one day host everything from athletic programs offered by the Boys & Girls Club of Marin and Southern Sonoma County, to visits from the free Bookmobile of Sonoma County. The nonprofits Daily Acts, Petaluma Small Craft Center, North Bay Children’s Center and Sunny Hills Services are also involved in the partnership, with plans to cross-promote each others’ programs. For example, officials at the North Bay Children’s Center, which provides early education programs, will now talk to families about whether their older children could benefit from a mentor, and then refer that family to Mentor Me Petaluma. Additionally, Daily Acts will work with kids in the center’s garden, teaching sustainability workshops and how to grow food.

“As a catalyst and convener, we are thankful for PCF’s role in initiating this collaboration,” said Trathen Heckman, executive director of Daily Acts. “Thanks to the vision of PCF, our kids, especially the ones with the greatest need, will be even better served.”

Since forming in 1975, PCF has invested more than $4 million in community projects. Unlike other nonprofits, PCF offers no direct services, but instead helps collect resources and provides grants to other charities. “We hope to be known as the strongest ally of the nonprofit community,” Segal said.

On Oct. 24, PCF will host a luncheon to introduce the community to the “Stronger Together” campaign and seek donations. Tickets are on sale now at petalumacf.org.

(Contact Emily Charrier at emily.charrier@argus courier.com)