RFP Info Session 2: San Mateo County Voter Engagement

Organizer: Silicon Valley Community Foundation

SVCF and the San Mateo County believe that all residents should have the power to engage in elections and have a voice in their government. Our goal is to inspire greater civic participation and to ensure our democracy represents all voices and perspectives. SVCF has chosen to focus this grant opportunity on the following:

1. Supporting community education programs for underrepresented voters in San Mateo County to learn more about the voting process, issues on the ballot and their rights at the polls.

2. Organizing nonpartisan outreach programs to remind voters to cast a ballot and of the importance of weighing in on local issues.

The objective of this RFP is to support voter engagement primarily targeted in precincts with low voter turnout. In doing so, it is critical that any grants offered through this RFP strictly avoid any partisan activity or advocacy on behalf of any candidate or issue on the ballot. Project descriptions will be reviewed to ensure that actual or perceived conflicts of interest are actively avoided. Grantees shall not expend any portion of the Grant Award for political advocacy efforts, whether for or against a political candidate, ballot measure or bill. Furthermore, Grantees shall not expend any portion of the Grant Award to inhibit or promote religion or convey a religious message. By using an RFP approach, SVCF aims to solicit the best thinking of nonprofit service providers, research institutions and other entities serving San Mateo County.