Organizations identify their community need, then design and implement an AmeriCorps program that will leverage people power as a solution. They recruit, train and manage individuals, called AmeriCorps members, to deliver those services.
AmeriCorps programs are designed to deliver direct and/or capacity building service.
Direct Service Examples |
Capacity Building Service Examples |
| Tutor children in reading as a literacy coach | Strengthen volunteer management and recruitment |
| Support after-school programming | Conduct outreach and securing resources in support of service activities that meet specific needs in community |
| Engage in community clean-up projects or neighborhood watch program | Help build the infrastructure of the sponsoring organization |
| Provide relief services to a community affected by disaster or health information to a vulnerable population | Develop collaborative relationships with other organizations working to achieve similar goals in the community |
AmeriCorps Members
Each year, AmeriCorps members serve in thousands of service settings, including nonprofits, public sector, local government, colleges and universities, tribal communities, and faith-based organizations to better meet their missions. These powerful service experiences also help AmeriCorps members develop skills and passion for lifelong civic engagement, increase their personal growth, and open opportunities for diverse career paths.
Eligibility Requirements
State Service Commissions, nonprofit organizations operating in two or more states, federally recognized Indian tribes, and an organization in a state or territory without a State Service Commission (e.g., U.S. Virgin Islands, South Dakota) are eligible to apply for AmeriCorps State and National funding directly with AmeriCorps.
Public, private, tribal, or faith-based nonprofit organizations as well as local or state agencies are eligible to apply for AmeriCorps State and National funding directly with the state/territory level with a State Service Commission, as a subgrantee.
Responsibilities and Expectations of AmeriCorps Grantee
- Design or replicate a successful intervention to address a community need that is evidence-informed
- Develop and execute a successful recruitment and selection process
- Supervise and train members throughout their service term
- Track and report performance measures that capture program outputs and outcomes
- Responsible for contributing match funding to support the project
- See additional requirements in our funding opportunities and regulations
How to Apply
1. Identify a Community Need
Then, design AmeriCorps service activities to address that need.
2. Determine Your Organization’s Fit for Funding
If you operate in a single state, apply through your State Service Commission. Otherwise, follow steps 3 and 4 to apply directly through AmeriCorps.
Contact your State Service Commission4. Await Final Determinations
AmeriCorps will conduct a formal review process and notify your organization if funds are awarded.