Volunteer Generation Funds Available!

Volunteer Generation Funds Available!! Apply Today!

The Volunteer Generation Fund (VGF) operated by AmeriCorps focuses on investments in volunteer management practices that increase both volunteer recruitment and retention. VGF was established by the Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act on April 21, 2009, expanding the role of the AmeriCorps agency in strengthening the nation’s volunteer infrastructure. At a time of social need, when Americans of all ages are looking for ways to give back, we need to be ready to engage all who answer the call to serve. Funds are currently available to help with general volunteer engagement,  recruitment, training, and agency capacity building. 

Serve Wisconsin is offering competitive grants up to $15,000 to strengthen volunteer programs in community-based organizations. These grants are available to: 

·        Volunteer centers 

·        Schools

·        Nonprofits 

·        Government agencies that work with volunteers 

The selection process will evaluate applicants based on: 

1.        Innovative approaches 

2.        Size and scope of the proposed project 

3.        Organization’s readiness to implement the project  

We especially encourage applications from projects celebrating the 250th anniversary of the United States and agencies working with older adult volunteers. 

To apply:

1.        Review the Request for Applications and Budget Instructions

2.        Submit your Application

3.        Return your completed Budget Worksheet to Rachel Donaldson at rachel.donaldson@wisconsin.gov

This is a rolling application. Applications will be reviewed monthly. The last day to expend grant funds is September 30, 2026.

Serve Wisconsin

 

Under the 2009 Serve America Act, the Volunteer Generation Fund (VGF) was established to provide funding through State Service Commissions to strengthen local volunteer programs and expand volunteerism.

Serve Wisconsin’s Volunteer Generation Fund provides support to volunteer programs in every region of the state. The Volunteer Generation Fund (VGF) focuses on investments in volunteer management practices that improve volunteer recruitment, retention, and training.

Serve Wisconsin is currently inviting agencies to apply for up to $4,000 in mini grants to be used to promote volunteer trainings, days of service, and disaster simulations. The last day to incur expenses reimbursable by the grant is September 30th, 2023. Non-profit and public organizations in Wisconsin are eligible to apply including, volunteer centers, school districts, community colleges, faith based organizations, universities, local governments, and other tax exempt agencies.

MINI GRANT APPLICATION

Grant applications are due April 14th. If you are interested in applying for these funds, please fill out the application found here: https://forms.office.com/g/94kyTAdUSf

Please contact Rachel Donaldson at rachel.donaldson@wisconsin.gov with questions about the mini grants and the application process.