Palo Alto council hears community support for nonprofit funding amid budget cuts

During the City Council meeting held on June 16, 2025, in Palo Alto, community leaders and nonprofit representatives gathered to discuss critical funding issues and the impact of city support on local programs. The meeting highlighted the essential role of nonprofits in addressing community needs, particularly for vulnerable populations.

One of the key discussions came from Bridal Yamamoto, president of the Palo Alto Special Education PTA, who advocated for a grant to support a social skills program for youth with disabilities. Yamamoto emphasized the importance of building social competence and peer connections, aligning with the council's priorities of wellness and belonging. She drew inspiration from a successful partnership in Belmont, suggesting a similar collaboration could enhance community engagement in Palo Alto.

Jasmina Boyce, founding director of the United Nations Association Film Festival, expressed concern over proposed budget cuts that could jeopardize educational programming. She argued that the festival plays a vital role in fostering democratic engagement and understanding within the community, particularly during challenging political times. Boyce urged the council to reconsider these cuts, highlighting the festival's year-round educational initiatives.

Cheryl Merrymount, CEO of the Musical Memories Foundation, expressed gratitude for the council's support, while Sarah Burgess, president of Neighbors Abroad, raised concerns about the nonprofit funding process. Burgess argued that the current system places nonprofits in competition for limited resources, which could undermine their unique contributions to the community. She requested that the council reconsider the funding structure to better reflect the specific needs of organizations like hers.

Nicole Chuang, executive director of Dream Catchers, underscored the importance of stable funding for nonprofits that serve socioeconomically disadvantaged youth. She highlighted the long-term relationships these organizations build within the community, asserting that their work is integral to the city's infrastructure.

The meeting also featured remarks from representatives of Life Moves and Peninsula Healthcare Connection, both of whom thanked the council for their support in providing essential services to the unhoused and marginalized populations. They emphasized the critical nature of their work and the impact of city funding on their ability to deliver consistent care and support.

In conclusion, the discussions at the Palo Alto City Council meeting underscored the vital role of nonprofit organizations in the community and the importance of stable funding to ensure their continued operation. As the council considers budget allocations, the voices of these community leaders highlight the need for a collaborative approach that recognizes the unique contributions of each organization. The council's next steps will be crucial in determining how these essential services will be supported moving forward.