This morning, Sedgwick County Commissioners heard a presentation from COMCARE staff and a local business owner, Jason Van Sickle, regarding a proposed public-private partnership to form a 501(c)3 nonprofit entity which would support COMCARE operations. The purpose of the nonprofit would be to expand public awareness of COMCARE’s services and promote volunteerism, to act as a fundraising arm to support COMCARE, and to utilize private sector expertise in the operation of the organization.
This proposed sister organization would promote public involvement through awareness and volunteer opportunities, increase the organization’s transparency, improve efficiency, and still maintain oversight by the Board of County Commissioners. COMCARE’s programs and services are deeply intertwined with other county departments and community providers, specifically those in public safety. By moving to a public-private partnership, there is potential for COMCARE to eventually reduce its dependence on local property tax dollars through fundraising efforts. There are also potential cost-savings for other county departments that work in conjunction with COMCARE. A draft of the proposal is attached.