Volunteer Generation Fund
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. For an overview of how states across the country are using Volunteer Generation Fund grants, visit the ASC Volunteer Generation Fund webpage.
Since 2014 Serve Wisconsin has received funding through the Volunteer Generation Fund and used those dollars to promote volunteerism throughout the state. These funds supported the creation of volunteer centers throughout the state, established a statewide volunteer connection website—volunteerwisconsin.com, supported the creation of VOAD/COADS to help state residents in times of disaster, and provided mini grants to agencies to help with volunteer recruitment, training, and capacity building.
If you are interested in learning more about the Volunteer Generation Fund, please contact Rachel Donaldson at rachel.donaldson@wisconsin.gov.
Open Applications
Volunteer Engagement Grants—Volunteer center support grants!
Through a competitive application process, Serve Wisconsin will sub-grant funds to 5 volunteer centers to support volunteer engagement activities. Specifically, we’re looking to support work that facilitates demographic based volunteerism. Funded volunteer centers will recruit volunteers from demographic groups like faith communities, youth, families, veteran and military members, skill-based or senior volunteers, and facilitate volunteer activities for these groups.
Eligible entities must be local agencies serving Wisconsin residents.
Applications must be submitted to Serve Wisconsin via email no later than October 4th, 2026, at 5:00pm CST. Please contact Rachel Donaldson <rachel.donaldson@wisconsin.gov> if you are in need of an extension. Serve Wisconsin does not require organizations to submit a notice of intent to respond. For the 2026-2027 contract year you may request a maximum reimbursement of $31,250.
To apply:
Review the Request for Applications, Budget Instructions, and In-Kind/Match documentation
Submit your Application
Return your completed Budget Worksheet via email to Rachel Donaldson at rachel.donaldson@wisconsin.gov