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Friday, January 27, 2017
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EVICS Receives Grant From McInnes Charitable Trust Estes Valley Investment in Childhood Success (EVICS) was the recent recipient of a $20,000 grant from the Sally Brown McInnes and John “Mac” McInnes Charitable Trust. EVICS applied for the competitive grant in September 2016 and was notified of their selection in late December. The McInnes Charitable Trust was created by Sarajane “Sally”Brown McInnes. Mr. and Mrs. McInnes were residents of Colorado and were passionate about providing for the welfare of animals and children’s health and overall well-being. The mission of the Trust today is to perpetuate the generosity of the McInnes family by supporting charitable causes with a preference toward organizations located in or serving Colorado that promote animal welfare, children’s health, education and empowerment. Each grant cycle, the McInnes Trust allocates a percentage of grant dollars to educational purposes. It was noted by the McInnes Trustees that EVICS’ work aligns well with the Trust’s mission to promote social and educational well-being of children, including programs and activities that support and empower atrisk children. EVICS Director, Nancy Almond, commented: “We are thrilled to receive this generous support and will put it to good use supporting and promoting quality early childhood services
for all families in our community. ” The grant to EVICS will be used to support the organization’s Childcare Scholarship Program. The average cost for full time childcare in Estes Park is $700 per month for one child, an expense that is out of reach for many working families.
In 2016, EVICS distributed over $27,000 in childcare scholarships to assist families with childcare and preschool fees, making it possible for families to live and work in Estes Park. Studies have shown that when families have consistent access to dependable, quality childcare, children are better prepared for school success, and parents are able to be present and productive at work, provide for their families, and contribute to the local economy. EVICS is a 501c3, non-profit agency serving Estes Park since 2006. EVICS offers free childcare referrals, parent education services, training and support to licensed childcare providers and teachers, and the childcare scholarship assistance program. Families are encouraged to contact EVICS for assistance with any early childhood needs. Community groups are encouraged to contact EVICS to learn more about early childhood needs and services in our community, and how you can help. A strong, sustainable community depends on the well-being of its children. Prioritizing children’s needs results in social and economic impacts that benefit us all. All donations to EVICS are eligible for state and federal income tax deductions, as well as the Colorado Childcare Tax Credit. Contact the EVICS Office for more information: 970-586-3055; office@evics.org; www.evics.org; EVICS, PO Box 3373, Estes Park, CO 80517.