The Families Improving Education (FIE) Initiative of the James Irvine Foundation seeks to support organizations engaging families—particularly those in low-income, ethnic, and immigrant communities—in educational policymaking at the state and local levels. 

Families Improving Education (FIE), an initiative of the James Irvine Foundation facilitated by Families In Schools, seeks to support organizations participating in advocacy efforts and engaging families – particularly those in low-income, ethnic and immigrant communities – in advocacy and educational decision-making at the local, regional, and state levels.  The Initiative is designed to foster more responsive and appropriate educational policies and practices that, ultimately, yield better academic outcomes for children and youth.

Since 2006, Families In Schools has served as technical assistance provider to support Initiative grantees in the implementation of their projects and in developing capacity to advocate and to engage families in advocacy.  Five organizations in California’s Central Valley were awarded grants during Phase I of the Initiative. To continue support of such advocacy efforts, Phase II will expand the Initiative to engage additional organizations in the Central Valley and the Inland Empire.  Organizations in these regions that undertake a variety of advocacy-focused activities and that facilitate family input into educational decision-making are eligible to apply for funding under Phase II.

In partnership with the Irvine Foundation, Families In Schools (FIS) has issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) to organizations in California’s Central Valley and Inland Empire regions who are interested in applying for Phase II funding.  Download the Request for Proposals and cover letter by clicking the corresponding links.

In response to this RFP, applicants are required to submit a Letter of Intent (LOI) - the first stage of the two-part application process – no later than 5:00 on Friday, October 31, 2008.  Following a review of submitted LOIs, qualified applicants will be invited to participate in a six-month planning period to develop a full proposal.  Applicants will be notified of their selection status in November 2008.  Letters of Intent and all supporting materials should be submitted by email to This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it .

For more information, please contact Lisa Danielson, Special Initiatives Manager, at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it   or (213) 484-2870 x236.