Douglas County named to national peer learning cohort, set to receive $20,000 grant to address poverty

Douglas County has been selected as one of 15 local governments nationwide to participate in the International City/County Management Association’s (ICMA) 2025 Economic Mobility and Opportunity Peer Learning Cohort and Mini Grant Program. This initiative aims to equip local decision-makers with resources to identify and advance strategies that enhance economic mobility for residents in their communities.

During tonight’s meeting, the Board of County Commissioners approved a subgrant agreement with ICMA, which allows the county to participate in the program.

In addition to professional development and networking opportunities, Douglas County will receive a $20,000 grant to advance a local assessment, planning process or program aimed at improving residents’ financial stability.

County leaders are working to advance goals outlined in the Anti-Poverty section of the Community Health Improvement Plan, particularly addressing economic challenges faced by single, female-headed households. Assistant County Administrator Jill Jolicoeur said the program could help guide efforts toward implementing a pilot guaranteed income initiative.

"This program gives us an incredible opportunity to learn from other communities and apply innovative strategies that can directly improve economic stability for those who need it most. We’re eager to take these lessons and turn them into actionable change for Douglas County,” Jolicoeur said.

Jolicoeur and Deputy County Administrator Sean Pederson attended ICMA’s National Economic Mobility and Opportunity Conference May 21-23 in Baltimore, marking the first gathering of cohort members. Over the next several months, they will gain access to coaching, subject matter expertise and evidence-based tools to strengthen local strategies.

Jolicoeur and Pederson will collaborate with the Anti-Poverty work group to develop and implement a plan. A final report, detailing the outcomes and expenditures, will be submitted by the end of the year.

Lawrence-Douglas County Public Health Executive Director Jonathan Smith described the grant and peer learning opportunity as a “big boost” to the work happening through the Community Health Improvement Plan.

“It gives us new tools and connections to support families who are navigating tough economic challenges,” he said. “We're excited to keep pushing for solutions that make Douglas County a place where everyone has a real shot at stability and opportunity.”

In 2024, the United Way of Kaw Valley received a $10,000 grant on behalf of the Anti-Poverty work group for the Community Health Improvement Plan to initiate steps toward a pilot guaranteed income program in Douglas County. The grant provided funding for community events that included data walks, screenings of the documentary, “It’s Basic,” and panel discussions.

The county does not foresee using taxpayer funding for a pilot guaranteed income program.