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El Mirage Community Partnership Grant Program
Application
Program Overview
The City of El Mirage Community Partnership Grant supports nonprofit organizations that provide essential
health and human services directly to El Mirage residents, including low-income families, seniors, youth,
and other individuals who may benefit from additional support.
Health and human services refer to programs, projects, or activities that improve the general health,
including physical, mental, emotional, or social well-being, of individuals and families. These services
address basic needs, promote safety and stability, and enhance residents' overall quality of life.
The program offers one-time funding of up to $10,000 per application annually from July 1 to June 30.
Eligible nonprofits and other qualified charitable organizations with 501(c)(3) status or IRS letter of
determination recognizing nonprofit status under A.R.S. §42-11154 may submit multiple applications for
funding, provided each application represents a distinct program or project.
Applicants are limited to one application per program or project. Each application must specify the
minimum funding required. Applications are evaluated based on an evaluation scoring rubric approved by
the City Council. The ultimate funding decisions are made by the El Mirage City Council.
Applicant Eligibility Criteria
The applicant must be a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation or other qualified charitable or nonprofit
organization as provided for in A.R.S. §42-11154.
The applicant must provide direct health and human services to El Mirage residents and
demonstrate how the program or project improves resident well-being.
The applicant must demonstrate the ability to generate revenue from sources other than the City of
El Mirage.
The applicant must submit the five following required documents:
1) Proof of 501(c)(3) status or IRS determination letter under A.R.S. §42-11154.
2) Organizational mission statement.
3) Board of directors list, including roles and affiliations.
4) Last two years of IRS Form 990 filings (or explanation if not available or required to file).
5) Completed application signed by an authorized representative.
If awarded, the applicant must register with the City of El Mirage as a vendor and provide an IRS
Form W-9 to receive funds.
If awarded, the applicant must demonstrate satisfactory progress toward stated goals and
objectives and provide timely and accurate reports as required by the city.
Application Directions
Please answer the following questions in narrative form. Applicants will receive up to five points for a
complete and accurate application.
Submission Directions
One electronic copy of the application and required attachments must be submitted no later than
the date and time identified in the notice to apply.
Late applications will not be accepted.
Please save a copy of this application for your records.
Awarded applicants are required to report completed program or project goal measurements by a
date and time specified in the notice of award, before the end of the fiscal year of the award,
or sooner as may be required by the city.
More Program Information
Visit www.ElMirageAZ.gov/Grants for more information about the program, including evaluation scoring
rubric.
Program-Related Inquiries
For program questions or to update contact information, please contact Regan Jepson at
communityservices@elmirageaz.gov.
Part 1: Agency and Program or Project
Section A: Agency Information
Agency Name
A New Leaf, Inc.
Tax Number
86-0256667
Executive Director / CEO
Michael Hughes
Website
https://www.turnanewleaf.org
Address
868 E. University Dr, Mesa, Arizona 85203
Phone
(480) 969-4024
Section B: Agency Overview
Briefly describe your organization, the services it provides, mission, goals, and population served.
Mesa Community Action Network (MesaCAN) is a subsidiary of A New Leaf, a 50l(c)(3) non-profit,
committed to its mission of “Helping Families ... Changing Lives.” A New Leaf offers 30 programs across
the Phoenix Metro area, including shelter and housing, domestic and sexual violence, and community
assistance. This year, 14,000 people with low-to-moderate income will find improved safety, well-being,
and hope through these programs, reflecting A New Leaf's commitment to an equitable, thriving
community.
Under A New Leaf’s aegis, MesaCAN has provided Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program
services in the West Valley since 2015. The VITA Program serves residents of the West Valley Cities of
Maricopa County, including El Mirage.
Please upload the following required documents:
1.
Proof of Section 501(c)(3) Tax Exemption - IRS determination letter verifying nonprofit status under
A.R.S. §42-11154 from the Internal Revenue Service. Please upload.
2.
Organizational mission statement. Please upload.
3.
Board of Directors list including a current list of board members with roles and affiliations. Please
upload.
Upload Files Here
2023 IRS 501 c3 A New Leaf Inc.pdf
2.3 - Mission, Values and Culture.pdf
Board Roster_25.26.pdf
Section C: Program or Project Information
Program or Project Name
West Valley Volunteer Income Tax Assistance
(VITA) Program
Program or Project Contact Person
Larry Grubbs
Email
contracts@turnanewleaf.org
Phone
(480) 969-4024
Does the program or project directly serve residents of the City of El Mirage?
Yes
Please select one health & human services category that best aligns with the need met by the
program.
Economic Stability / Financial Planning / Financial Assistance
If you selected "Other" above, please specify:
N/A
Part 2: Program Description
Section A: Narrative Description
Please provide a detailed description of the program or project that these grant funds will support,
if awarded.
A New Leaf’s West Valley Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program is a proven anti-poverty and
community asset-building initiative that provides free tax preparation services to low- and moderate-income
households (earning $69,000 or less), persons with disabilities, seniors, and limited English-speaking
taxpayers who need assistance preparing their returns. The program ensures households access the full
tax credits for which they are eligible, without losing hundreds of dollars to paid preparer fees.
Tax services are delivered free of charge by IRS-certified volunteers who are recruited, trained, and
supervised by A New Leaf. Volunteers complete standardized IRS training and annual certification, and all
returns are quality-reviewed and electronically filed to expedite refunds. A New Leaf fully complies with IRS
Quality Site Requirements and has earned a 100% IRS Quality Compliance rating for the past six years,
ensuring consistent, high-quality service delivery.
Through one-on-one assistance, VITA helps households claim critical credits such as the Earned Income
Tax Credit (EITC), supporting essential needs like housing, childcare, and healthcare. Participants avoid
losing refunds due to preparer fees or unclaimed credits.
Services are provided on a walk-in basis; capacity depends on volunteer availability, but clients are not
turned away. When needed, a Drop-Off option allows clients to complete intake forms and a brief eligibility
interview. Returns are prepared off-site, and clients return the following week for a scheduled Pick-Up
appointment. Through volunteer recruitment, coordination, and outreach, VITA delivers proven anti-poverty
services with measurable financial impact for El Mirage residents.
Households are also connected to additional financial empowerment resources, including banking and
savings options, financial wellness tools, and credit repair services, to strengthen long-term stability. These
services can be life-changing for households living paycheck to paycheck or facing financial crisis.
Funding will support volunteer recruitment and support, as well as community outreach, ensuring El Mirage
residents continue to access this high-impact program.
Describe how this program or project will benefit El Mirage residents directly and the need or gap
in service that it meets. Please include data to support your response.
In FY25, A New Leaf’s West Valley Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program returned an
estimated $5.36 million in federal and state tax refunds and credits to 4,654 households, providing critical
income support during ongoing economic strain. 120 households were El Mirage residents.
El Mirage City has approximately 36,468 residents, with 12.5% living at or below the federal poverty level
(U.S. Census Bureau, QuickFacts, 2024 Estimates). Across Maricopa County, 77% of low-to moderate-
income households are liquid-asset poor, meaning that households lack sufficient financial resources to
cover basic expenses for three months in the event of job loss or an emergency. Lack of assets leave
many households one emergency away from crisis. Tax refunds can serve as a vital financial lifeline, yet
approximately 22% of eligible taxpayers do not claim the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) due to cost,
limited financial literacy, or fear of filing errors.
The EITC is one of the nation’s most effective anti-poverty tools, delivering $1.5 billion to more than
516,000 Arizona households in tax year 2024. Free, IRS-certified VITA services are essential to ensure
eligible El Mirage households receive the full benefits they have earned, increasing their tax refunds and
financial stability.
Is this a new or continuing program?
Continuing
If you selected "Other" above, please specify:
N/A
Section B: Scope & Timeline
What are the program or project dates?
VITA volunteers provide tax services during tax season, January through April. However, the project
includes volunteer recruitment, site coordination, volunteer appreciation events, and other preparation and
planning events. As such, VITA is a year-round program, 07/01/2026-06/30/2027
Total number of persons expected to be served by this program or project during the funded year.
4,600
Total number of El Mirage residents you expect to be served by this program or project during the
funded year.
130
How soon will the program or project be implemented after funds are received, if awarded? (If not
applicable, write “N/A.”)
Volunteer recruitment for tax season 2027 will take place from August to October 2026. Training will take
place November-December, and tax preparation will occur from January through April.
Section C: Accessibility and Resource Needs
Does your program or project take place in the City of El Mirage? *
No
Where will your project or program be located, and how does this location support your ability to
serve El Mirage residents effectively?
West Valley VITA operates 12 sites throughout the West Valley:
-
Arizona Complete Health, Avondale Resource Center
-
Arizona State University West Campus
-
Buckeye Family Resource Center
-
Esther Angulo Community Center
-
Estrella Mountain Community College
-
GESD System of Care Center[PS2.1]
-
Glendale Community College
-
Citadel of Praise Christian Church
-
Littleton Elementary School District
-
Luke Air Force Base
-
Riverboat Bingo
-
Surprise Resource Center
Many El Mirage residents have conveniently accessed VITA services at the City of Surprise Resource
Center site. Services are primarily offered on a walk-in basis and scaled to volunteer capacity; however, no
eligible client is denied assistance. When necessary, clients may use a Drop-Off process to complete
intake forms and a brief eligibility interview, with tax returns prepared off-site and finalized during a
scheduled Pick-Up appointment the following week.
A New Leaf will increase awareness through marketing to ensure El Mirage residents are aware of VITA
services.
Describe how your program or project will be open to the public and ensure accessibility for
persons with disabilities, including specific accommodations.
All VITA sites comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Accessible parking, pathways, and
building entrances are available at each location, and all interior service areas are fully accessible. While
restroom configurations vary by host facility, each site provides at least one restroom accessible to
individuals with physical disabilities.
To ensure language access for non-English-speaking clients, VITA services are supported through
multiple methods. Volunteers utilize Google Translate and the IRS-provided Over-the-Phone Interpreter
(OPI) service to assist taxpayers who speak languages other than English or Spanish. Written materials
are provided in both English and Spanish, and materials in other languages may be generated as needed,
contingent on availability. When written translations are not immediately available, staff use alternative
communication strategies such as visual aids, demonstrations, drawings, videos, and other assistive
methods to ensure understanding.
For Deaf and hard of hearing clients, interpreter services are available in some municipalities through
community partnerships. When interpreter services are not available, volunteers communicate through
written explanations using paper or mobile devices to ensure effective service delivery.
VITA sites are committed to providing reasonable accommodations for all individuals. While requests for
services for visually impaired clients have been limited to date, staff are prepared to work with clients on a
case by case basis to identify appropriate accommodations and ensure equitable access to services.
Will the implementation of this activity require space, staffing, grants management, or in-kind
contributions from another agency, a school, or another jurisdiction?
Other
If you selected "Other" above, please specify (If not applicable, write “N/A.”):
While A New Leaf/MesaCAN is not requesting space, staffing, or other in-kind contributions from El
Mirage, the agency’s VITA program benefits from its partnerships with various West Valley entities,
listed above. Additionally, the program’s volunteers are essential to service delivery. In FY25, the
West Valley VITA Program was supported by 119 dedicated volunteer tax specialists who contributed
8,427 hours of service in FY25. Based on the Independent Sector’s estimated value of a volunteer
hour of $34.79/hour in AZ, this equates to $294,984.41.
Section D: Collaboration and Outreach
Are you currently partnered with, or have you ever partnered with, the City of El Mirage?
No
Describe how you will collaborate with the City of El Mirage to coordinate outreach promoting the
program or project to the residents of El Mirage.
A New Leaf will collaborate closely with the City of El Mirage to coordinate and implement outreach efforts
that effectively promote the VITA program to local residents. Regular communication and coordination with
City staff will ensure that outreach strategies align with city priorities, respond to community needs, and are
well integrated into existing municipal initiatives. By working in partnership with the City, we will maximize
reach and ensure consistent, trusted messaging throughout the community.
VITA staff will work collaboratively with the City of El Mirage to explore opportunities for promoting VITA
services through established City communication channels, including the City’s website, social media
platforms, newsletters, and utility bill inserts, as feasible. With City staff guidance, outreach materials could
also be displayed at City facilities such as City Hall, libraries, community centers, and senior centers to
increase visibility among residents. Program information can be shared at City-hosted events, workshops,
and community gatherings, allowing for direct engagement with residents and opportunities to answer
questions and encourage participation. The City’s insight into community dynamics will help A New Leaf
staff tailor outreach approaches to maximize attendance and accessibility.
A New Leaf will also work with the City to connect with local partners and community-based organizations
to extend outreach to underserved and hard-to-reach populations. By leveraging the City of El Mirage’s
trusted presence and strong community relationships, the aim is to increase awareness, participation, and
utilization of VITA services, ultimately ensuring that more residents have access to free, reliable tax
preparation assistance.
How will you work with other local partners to maximize impact and ensure residents are aware of
and engaged with your services?
Program staff work collaboratively with adjoining municipalities, including the City of Surprise, as well as
local partners to expand outreach, increase awareness, and ensure eligible residents are informed about
and engaged with VITA services. These partnerships are intentionally designed to leverage existing
community networks and maximize the program’s overall impact.
Staff collaborate with a broad range of local organizations that already serve low- to moderate-income
residents, including nonprofits, social service agencies, community-based organizations, schools, senior
centers, faith-based organizations, financial institutions, and workforce development agencies. By aligning
efforts with trusted community partners, staff are able to reach residents through channels and settings
they already frequent.
To further extend outreach, staff coordinate cross-referrals and information sharing with partner
organizations so that VITA services are actively promoted to clients through flyers, email distributions,
social media outreach, and in-person interactions. Staff also participate in partner-hosted events,
workshops, resource fairs, and community meetings, creating opportunities for direct engagement and
real-time dissemination of program information.
Regular communication is maintained with partners to coordinate outreach timing, share program updates,
and ensure consistent messaging. Through these collaborative efforts, staff strengthen community
awareness, reduce barriers to access, and help ensure residents are informed, engaged, and able to take
full advantage of VITA services.
Part 3: Program or Project Goals and Outcomes
Please provide up to three goals of the program or project and describe how progress will be
measured to ensure success in providing health and human services to the residents of El
Mirage. It is important to ensure that your goals correspond with the proposed number of residents to
be served within the program year. Explain how you will collect and report data and measure the
impact for each stated goal.
Example Goal: Of the 80 persons served by the project, 40% (32 persons) will find employment within
three months of entering the program. This will be measured by follow-up contact with each program
participant.
Measurable Goal No. 1
The VITA Program will serve 130 El Mirage residents. Of those, 100% of eligible El Mirage taxpayers
served will be assisted with receiving the Earned Income Tax Credit to improve their financial stability
during the 2026/27 tax season. The tools used to measure success and the achievement of the set
objectives will be the IRS tax filing system, which documents when tax returns are filed, completed, and
refunds are issued. The program’s success will be quantified by assessing how many El Mirage residents
claimed the tax credits they are eligible for and the specific amount they were refunded.
Measurable Goal No. 2
The VITA Program will serve 130 El Mirage residents. Of those, 100% of eligible El Mirage taxpayers
served will be assisted with receiving the Child Tax Credit to improve their financial stability during the
2026/27 tax season. The tools used to measure success and the achievement of the set objectives will be
the IRS tax filing system, which documents when tax returns are filed, completed, and refunds are issued.
The program’s success will be quantified by assessing how many El Mirage residents claimed the tax
credits they are eligible for and the specific amount they were refunded.
Measurable Goal No. 3
The VITA Program will serve 130 El Mirage residents. Of those, 100% of eligible El Mirage taxpayers
served will be assisted with receiving the Education Tax Credit to improve their financial stability during the
2026/27 tax season. The tools used to measure success and the achievement of the set objectives will be
the IRS tax filing system, which documents when tax returns are filed, completed, and refunds are issued.
The program’s success will be quantified by assessing how many El Mirage residents claimed the tax
credits they are eligible for and the specific amount they were refunded.
Part 4: Funding Request
Total Community Partnership Grant Funding Requested
7,000.00
Minimum Community Partnership Grant Funding Requested
5,000.00
Is program or project implementation contingent upon receiving the full award?
No, program implementation is not dependent on receiving the full award from the City of El Mirage. The
requested funds represent approximately 1.6% of the overall program budget. In FY25, El Mirage residents
accounted for 2.6% of individuals served. If awarded less than the requested amount, A New Leaf will
continue to provide services to El Mirage residents. Funding from the City allows the agency to strengthen
and expand outreach efforts within El Mirage, increasing local awareness and access to services.
If approved for an amount less than 100% of your request, how will you address the shortfall?
A New Leaf is grateful for any level of support. Any funding shortfall will be covered through private,
unrestricted funds to ensure continuity of services. City funding allows the agency to leverage private
resources more strategically across programs. Even with reduced funding, A New Leaf remains committed
to its partnership with the City of El Mirage and prioritizes the shared goal of serving and reaching more El
Mirage residents.
Part 5: Program or Project Budget
Section A: Total Program or Project Budget
Total Cost of the Program or Project Operations
433,953.00
Total Program or Project Funding from Other Funding Sources
426,953.00
What other funding sources presently support this program or project?
Currently, the West Valley VITA Program receives funding from the City of Surprise- $10,000, City of
Buckeye- $5,000, and IRS/Masters of Coin- $116,969. A New Leaf will request continued funding from
these sources for FY27. Additionally, A New Leaf has requested funding from the City of Goodyear to
assist in opening a new facility within the City.
Additionally, the West Valley VITA Program was supported by 119 dedicated volunteer tax specialists who
contributed 8,427 hours of service in FY25. Based on the Independent Sector’s estimated value of a
volunteer hour of $34.79/hour in AZ, this equates to $294,984.41. The dedication of volunteers significantly
sustains program capacity and ensures high-quality, cost-effective service delivery.
Section B: Total Budget for Program or Project – Grant Award
Only
Grant Award Budget Narrative
Wages/Salaries
0.00
Employee-Related Expenses (ERE)
0.00
Professional Services & Outside Services
Training
0.00
Materials & Supplies
1,260
General Office Supplies
0.00
Administrative Cost (not to exceed $1,000 or
10% of grant request)
636.00
Program/Project Incentives (gift cards, food,
certificates of achievement)
0.00
Marketing/Outreach
2,104.00
Other
3,000.00
If you selected "Other" to the previous question,
please explain.
Volunteers are the backbone of the VITA program,
donating countless hours to serve community
members in need. A New Leaf invests in volunteer
recruitment and retention by providing simple but
meaningful forms of appreciation, such as snacks, t
shirts, awards, and recognition items. At
approximately $24 per volunteer, this funding is a
cost effective and essential investment that supports
volunteer morale, retention, and the long term
success of the VITA program. Volunteer-related
expenses- volunteer appreciation, food, etc. ($24
per volunteer x 125 volunteers = $3,000)
Explain how grant funds will be utilized to support administrative costs for your project.
To manage high volume programs and services effectively and efficiently, A New Leaf has developed a
proficient network of support/business units. Several departments focus on monitoring day-to-day activities
and ensuring the agency achieves high quality service delivery, prioritizing adherence to all contract
requirements and applicable federal and state laws and regulations. This network includes Finance and
Accounting, Quality Management, Contracts and Grants, Facilities, Information Systems, Philanthropy, and
Human Resources and Training. These are all included in overhead and administrative costs.
Section C: Program or Project Funding Sustainability
How will your organization generate or secure additional funding to sustain services for the
continued operation of this program or project?
A New Leaf is committed to sustaining the VITA Program and works to identify and secure further funding
to provide the program to the community. A New Leaf has a talented team of financial specialists who
target diverse sources of funds, including federal, state, county, municipal, foundation, corporate, and
private donor support to ensure that each program is fully funded.
Collaborative partnerships, volunteer engagement, and community-based resources remain integral to the
organization’s ability to provide quality, uninterrupted services. Last year, the West Valley VITA Program
was supported by 119 dedicated volunteer tax specialists who contributed 8,427 hours of service. Based
on the Independent Sector’s estimated value of a volunteer hour of $34.79/hour in AZ, this equates to
$294,984.41. The dedication of volunteers significantly sustains program capacity and ensures high-
quality, cost-effective service delivery.
A New Leaf continues to actively pursue all available funding opportunities to strengthen financial support
for the West Valley VITA Program and to sustain and enhance the services it provides.
If the program receives less than the requested amount of funding, what adjustments, if any, would
be made to the program and services provided to El Mirage residents?
If the program receives less than the requested amount, A New Leaf will continue to provide VITA services
to El Mirage residents. The requested funding will enable A New Leaf to expand its marketing and
outreach services within El Mirage, so the funding will make it possible to serve more El Mirage residents.
A reduced award could limit the number served.
Part 6: Operational and Financial Status
Please upload the following required attachments:
Applicant organization's last two IRS Form 990 filings.
If your organization is not required to file a 990, upload a brief explanation.
Please upload attachment (1).
2022-A New Leaf-Public Copy.pdf
Please upload attachment (2).
Leaf_990_Period Ending 06.30.2024.pdf
If your organization does not have either document available, please explain below.
The agency's 990 for fiscal year ending June 30, 2025 is in process, and will be completed soon. We will
be happy to provide that upon completion.
Authorized Representative Signature