How does the Dignity Fund work?
The Department of Disability and Aging Services (DAS) administers the Dignity Fund, primarily through contracts with community-based organizations developed through the City’s competitive solicitation process.
The Dignity Fund Oversight and Advisory Committee (OAC) monitors and advises DAS on the administration of the Dignity Fund in a manner accountable to the community. The OAC is advised by the Service Providers Working Group (SPWG), which engages a cross section of service providers who inform, educate and provide consultation on emerging needs and policy matters.
The Department of Disability and Aging Services (DAS)
DAS coordinates services for older adults, veterans, people with disabilities, and their families to maximize safety, health, and independence in San Francisco.
The Dignity Fund established a four year planning cycle, starting in fiscal year 2017-18. During the planning cycle, DAS will:
Conduct a Community Needs Assessment (CNA) to identify service gaps and unmet needs; and
Develop a Services and Allocation Plan (SAP) to outline how the Dignity Fund will be used to meet the identified needs of the community.Develops and oversees additional needs assessments and determines service and equity gaps.
The Oversight and Advisory Committee (OAC)
The Oversight and Advisory Committee develop recommendations for DAS and the Fund regarding:
Outcomes and planning for services
Evaluation of services
Common data systems
A process for making funding decisions
Leveraging dollars of the Fund
Use of the Fund as a catalyst for innovation
The Committee creates opportunities to obtain input about service needs from a cross-section of stakeholders: seniors, veterans, those aging with HIV, adults with disabilities, adults with other chronic illnesses, caregivers, nonprofit agencies, and other members of the public.
Their goal is to distribute funds equitably among services for all eligible groups, regardless of race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or gender identity.
In considering equity, the Committee looks at community needs – and how to meet them in the most culturally and ethnically appropriate ways.
This Committee is comprised of a total of 11 members.
2 members of the DAS Commission - appointed by the Mayor
3 members of the DAS Advisory Council - appointed by the Board of Supervisors
3 members of the Long Term Care Council (LTCCC) - recruited by the LTCCC and appointed by the Mayor
3 members chosen at large - appointed by the Mayor
Current Members
Marcy Adelman
Allen Cooper, MD
Vince Crisostomo
Ramona Davies
Wanda Jung
Martha Knutzen
Diane Lawrence
Sandi Mori
Jennifer Walsh