Operation AmeriCorps Invites Tribal and Local Leaders to Apply to Fund Service Projects

The Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS) introduces a new program, Operation AmeriCorps, that assists tribal and local leaders (including counties, cities, towns and school districts; and state commissions) in making a big impact in their community. Operation AmeriCorps is a subcategory of AmeriCorps, a service program that engages thousands of Americans in intensive community service projects. CNCS provides grants to a network of local and national organizations and agencies dedicated to placing AmeriCorps service members in areas that address critical community initiatives in education, health, the environment, disaster preparedness and public safety.

Operation AmeriCorps requests tribal and local leaders to identify a high-priority local challenge that service members can address in one to two years. The program has two funding priorities for the 2015 fiscal year. The first priority focuses on specific post-secondary outcomes for students. The second priority is flexible, allowing localities to identify their most pressing challenges. Proposals can focus on a new initiative or scaling up of an existing proven initiative. Initiatives should be place-based, coordinated with existing community organizations and demonstrate the ability to have transformational outcomes in the community. Operation AmeriCorps invites to apply for AmeriCorps State and National, AmeriCorps NCCC and/or AmeriCorps VISTA service members.


Operation AmeriCorps differs from other AmeriCorps competitions for the following reasons:

• Single application for multiple AmeriCorps programs: For the first time, applicants may request AmeriCorps State and National, AmeriCorps NCCC, and/or AmeriCorps VISTA resources in a single application.
• Focuses on transformational impact: Successful applicants will propose how AmeriCorps members will be an essential part of the solution to achieve a dramatic and measurable improvement in the given locality in a two-year period.
• Two-step application process: For the first step, applicants will submit a concept paper (maximum length: 10 pages) that describes their project. Then applicants selected for step two will receive technical assistance and be asked to submit a full application.

Because applicants are expected to show how they will coordinate with national service programs, applicants should reach out to their State Service Commission to learn about their state’s application process and deadline, which may be significantly before the CNCS deadline of January 13, 2015. Notice of Intent to apply is due December 29, 2014. To learn more and apply, visit the website.