Skip to main content

Oregon State Flag An official website of the State of Oregon »

OregonServes

AmeriCorps Oregon Competitive Funding








Planning grants provide funding to help organizations develop new AmeriCorps programs to address community challenges. Watch our planning grant information session and follow along with the slide deck.


Planning Grant Dates

OregonServes plans to release planning grant funding opportunities multiple times during the year. For planning grantees that choose to apply for a full AmeriCorps program and are successful, our goal is to minimize the time it takes to move from the planning stage to program implementation. 

 
 
Planning Grant Information

How does an AmeriCorps planning grant benefit your organization? 
Planning grants provide applicants with resources to design an AmeriCorps program, and help organizations build capacity to manage an AmeriCorps program. Successful applicants receive training and technical assistance from OregonServes to design and implement strong, federally compliant programs. Grantees who complete their planning grant will be better prepared to apply for an AmeriCorps grant and operate an AmeriCorps program. 

What is AmeriCorps? 
AmeriCorps is a national service program which provides year-long volunteering opportunities for Americans to address critical community needs. An AmeriCorps service year is organized to have a community impact while making a lasting difference in the lives of those who serve. AmeriCorps members are recruited, trained, supervised, and managed by eligible organizations, and may receive a modest living allowance and other benefits proportional to the amount of time they serve. 

What type of organization is eligible to apply? 
501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations and public agencies are eligible to apply. All applicants must have active registration with the System for Award Management (SAM) at www.SAM.gov

What types of costs are covered by a planning grant? 
A planning grant can support staffing costs, travel, materials, and other costs necessary to conduct research and engage community members and partners in planning activities.

How do I apply? 
Interested organizations complete an application according to instructions posted in the 2024-2025 AmeriCorps OregonServes Planning Grant Request for Applications (RFA).

I need technical assistance with the application, where can I find help? 
Visit our New Applicant Resources page to receive an introduction to AmeriCorps and AmeriCorps funding, including frequently asked questions.

What are the application requirements? 
The 2023-2024 AmeriCorps OregonServes Planning Grant RFA has full details on the application process and requirements.

Required Documents

  • OregonServes Planning Grant Application Form
  • OregonServes Planning Grant Budget Form
  • Current indirect cost rate agreement, if applicable
  • Organizational Chart
  • Application Certification Sheet
  • And either-
    • Independent Financial Statement Audit from 2020-2021 (submit most recently completed).
    • Not required for colleges, universities, or school districts.
    • Single Audit from 2020 to 2021 (submit most recently completed, if applicable).
    • Not required for colleges, universities, or school districts.
    • If an organization has not undergone an audit, they may submit unaudited financial statements from 2020-21.
Additional Resources 
Here are some videos that may be helpful as you navigate the grant process: