Governor’s Office on Service and Volunteerism Announces Opening of AmeriCorps State Grant Application

Federal Grants Fund Community Service Programs Across Maryland

ANNAPOLIS, MD – The Governor’s Office on Service and Volunteerism today announced the opening of the AmeriCorps State Grant application process for the 2021 – 2022 service year. The grants are federally funded by AmeriCorps and administered by the Governor’s Office on Service and Volunteerism. AmeriCorps State Grants support AmeriCorps members who meet a wide range of community needs and serve as teachers, mentors, mediators and community gardeners through local organizations.

“AmeriCorps grants create important opportunities for organizations to collaborate with service-minded Marylanders by providing living allowances and access to the Segal AmeriCorps Education Award to individuals who dedicate their time as AmeriCorps members,” said Nicki Fiocco, Director of the Governor’s Office on Service and Volunteerism. “Each year, we see the meaningful impact that the grant funds have on the community as a whole – increasing resources and capacity for organizations; inspiring citizens to serve as AmeriCorps members; and addressing issues important to Marylanders.”

Earlier this year, the Governor’s Office on Service and Volunteerism announced the awarding of over $4.6 million in AmeriCorps State grants for the 2020 – 2021 service year. The grants were awarded to 18 organizations throughout Maryland, empowering communities to lead through service in a variety of methods including establishing community interventions, pandemic response, and increasing the volunteer capacity of host organizations. Upon completion of their service year, AmeriCorps members receive the Segal AmeriCorps Education Award for assistance with post-secondary education or student loan repayment. 

To receive an AmeriCorps State grant, organizations must raise a minimum of 24% of the grant in matching funds.

Qualifying organizations for the grant include: 

• Nonprofits, 
• Faith-based organizations, 
• State or Local government agencies, and 
• Institutions of higher education.

Organizations interested in applying for an AmeriCorps State grant must submit a Concept Paper by 5 p.m. on October 12, 2020. Concept Papers will be reviewed and applicants of accepted proposals will be invited to complete a full grant application. 

Learn more at http://gosv.maryland.gov/available-funding/.