FAQ
Intro | Membership | Resources | Grant | FAQ
To answer the questions that you may have regarding the CAP Program, OCA has provided the following FAQ to assist. If you have any questions, please email dlee@ocanational.org
(pdf) Frequently Asked Questions
ABOUT THE PROGRAM:
* How do I become a member of the College Affiliate Program?
Organizations can sign up to be a member of the College Affiliate Program by online application or filling out the form. Both can be found on our website, www.ocanational.org.
* What kinds of organizations can be a college affiliate?
We encourage pan-Asian student organizations. Only one organization per school can apply. If multiple organizations from the same school apply, we will inform the organizations of the situation and hope that a compromise can be reached. Recognition of the College Affiliate Program members will be of the school.
National and regional networks are encouraged to sign up for membership as well.
* What are the main goals of the College Affiliate Program?
The College Affiliate Program seeks to fulfill OCA's mission statement of embracing the hopes and aspirations of Asian Pacific Americans. The program will provide a network for college students to effectively organize and build campaigns across the country. In addition, it will aid college students in local efforts on campus or within the community.
* As a member of the College Affiliate Program, what resources are available to me?
Whether a student group is organizing a fundraiser, conference, or campaign, OCA can assist the organization by providing fact sheets on topics of interest or toolkits that offer step by step assistance on topics such as hate crimes/bias incidents, coalition building and advocating for Asian American Studies. OCA will also be able to offer expertise on certain issues and suggest programming to bring to a college campus.
* How can I stay connected with other college students in the nation who are working on similar campaigns?
OCA has a database of contacts for the contact information for other college students enrolled in this program and this information may be obtained by emailing Douglas Lee at dlee@ocanational.org. Also, there will be a conference call once a month to network and stay connected with one another on different things happening in the country.
* Does my organization have to be only focused on Chinese Americans in order to apply?
No. OCA is focused on connecting the entire Asian Pacific American (APA) community.
ABOUT THE GRANT:
* Who decides if my organization receives funding?
A committee of OCA members will review and decide on each grant.
* What if my program needs funding before the next application date?
Please contact Douglas Lee at dlee@ocanational.org We encourage all applicants to consider the time sensitive nature of their program/project.
* Does my organization have to be a member of CAP in order to apply?
Yes. If your organization is not a member of CAP but would like to join, membership materials can be found on our website.
* What type of programs will the grant cover?
OCA will look at each application on an individual basis and base its decisions on the applications. If you have any specific questions, please email dlee@ocanational.org
* What does OCA want as outcomes/expectations?
The project should advocate on behalf of Asian Pacific Americans and fulfill OCA's mission. Outcomes are not always measurable but OCA hopes that through the project/program that the College Affiliate member is able to promote civic participation, promote social justice, or enhance coalition building within the campus or community. OCA requires a final report to be completed for the program that was funded.
* What are some things to make my grant proposal stand out?
OCA is looking for innovative ideas. Educational campaigns on issues affecting the APA community and civic engagement ideas will be looked favorably upon. Applications turned in time and in advance of your project/program are highly encouraged.
* When are the application due dates and when will we know if we were approved?
Applications are due every first Friday of the month and organizations will be told of the decision within two weeks. Below is a calendar for expected decision dates.
Due Date Will be Notified
| Due Date |
Will Be Notified |
| Fall Cycle | |
| September 14, 2008 | September 22, 2008 |
| October 6, 2008 | October 20, 2008 |
| November 6, 2008 | November 20, 2008 |
| December 6, 2008 | December 20, 2008 |
| Spring Cycle | |
| January 6, 2009 | January 20, 2009 |
| February 6, 2009 | February 20, 2009 |
| March 6, 2009 | March 20, 2009 |
| April 6, 2009 | April 20, 2009 |
| May 6, 2009 | May 20, 2009 |
* How will my organization receive funding?
Organizations will receive seed money for 25% of the grant requested. The rest of the grant money will be given as reimbursements upon completion of the evaluation. Please be sure to keep all receipts from purchases.
* How much can I apply for?
Applications are limited to $1,500. As part of the application process, we require a budget sheet that outlines your expenses.
* What if the funds from the grant are not enough to cover expenses?
The grant should only act as a supplement to your funds. Please be diligent in asking for additional resources or funds.
* Can I apply more than once? Can I get the program approved ahead of time?
Members may only apply for one grant per cycle. Preference will be given to those members who have not received funding. If an organization has a specific campaign or project in mind to work on for an upcoming semester, please apply ahead of time.
* What types of expenses can we get reimbursed for?
The grant through the College Affiliate Program allows students to pay for performers, production costs, hospitality/reception costs, and promotion costs, such as flyers and posters. No more 25% of the grant may be spent on food. The grant cannot be used as donations to charities.
* What type of recognition should be given for the Grant?
Acknowledgements of the grant should be given to OCA College Affiliate Program.
