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. 

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. 

Serve Wisconsin was one of only six state commissions to receive funding through the Volunteer Generation Fund in 2023. The most recently awarded VGF funds support efforts by local agencies to run board training programs throughout the state. These programs train new leaders, specifically individuals from underrepresented communities, to serve as decision makers on nonprofit boards. Additionally, Serve Wisconsin continues to provide 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

Serve Wisconsin is offering competitive grants ranging from $5,000 to $20,000 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 youth-led volunteer programs. 

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