Broward County Commission Regular Meeting
Director's Name: Bertha Henry
Department: County Administration Division: Parks & Recreation
Information
Requested Action
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MOTION TO APPROVE Agreement between Broward County (County) and United Community Options, Inc., a Florida not-for-profit corporation, to provide a summer internship experience for special needs students that will enhance the education and employment training for participants through internships at Broward County Parks and Recreation from June 14, 2021 to July 29, 2021; authorize the Mayor and Clerk to execute same; and authorize the County Administrator to take all necessary administrative actions to implement the Agreement.
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Why Action is Necessary
Agreements with external agencies require approval by the Board of County Commissioners.
What Action Accomplishes
Provides for implementation of an internship program, UCO Step Program, with United Community Options, Inc. within the Parks and Recreation Division.
Is this Action Goal Related
Yes
Previous Action Taken
None
Summary Explanation/Background
THE PARKS AND RECREATION DIVISION RECOMMENDS APPROVAL OF THE ABOVE ACTION.
This action supports the Commission Value: "Cultivating community culture, arts, recreation, and life-long learning," and the related Goal: "In coordination with our community partners, market and deliver world-class recreational opportunities." The development of a cooperative program for youth and young adults to obtain employment training experiences in park settings will enhance employment opportunities for Broward County residents with disabilities.
The purpose of the UCO Step Program is to provide services to eligible individuals that can improve the quality of life for children and adults with disabilities. Through a funding partnership with Children’s Services Council, participants will strengthen skills to attain self-sufficiency in the workplace through opportunities for active observation and practical experience in the organization and administration of recreation and leisure in a variety of different settings. The internship experience also helps students to grow personally in their journey toward becoming self-sufficient.
This Agreement establishes a mutually beneficial relationship between the County, through the Parks and Recreation Division, and United Community Options, Inc. The internship participants will work at a Parks and Recreation worksite with a Job Coach overseeing the completion of various tasks.
The Program will enhance service capacity and programming of the Parks and Recreation Special Populations Section, helping to increase the number of patrons served and expand the diversity of programs offered. In return, the interns receive both supervised and self-directed learning opportunities during their participation.
The Agreement has been reviewed for legal sufficiency by the Office of the County Attorney.
Source of Additional Information
Dan West, Director, Parks and Recreation Division, 954-357-8106
Fiscal Impact
Fiscal Impact/Cost Summary
There is no fiscal impact to the County.