AmeriCorps grants are awarded to eligible organizations that engage AmeriCorps Volunteers in evidence-based or evidence-informed interventions to strengthen communities. Organizations seeking to operate outside of Rhode Island or in multiple-states can apply to the annual AmeriCorps State and National Competition. Navigate to the AmeriCorps.gov Funding Opportunities page to access current or prior application materials.

Grant applicants for competitive AmeriCorps funding must consult with ServeRI, and each state or territorial service commission in the locations in which they are applying to place AmeriCorps Volunteers. In order to streamline the consultation process, Rhode Island collaborates with other states in using the online form provided by America’s Service Commissions.

AmeriCorps VISTA (Volunteers in Service to America) is a national, full-time service program designed specifically to eradicate poverty. Volunteers commit to one year of service with non-profits, public agencies, or tribal governments to build organizational capacity, secure funding, and develop sustainable anti-poverty programs. To become a VISTA sponsor, or host, grant applicants first submit a Concept Paper. Learn about the process from the Funding Opportunities site on AmeriCorps.gov and contact ServeRI for additional support developing your project.

The AmeriCorps agency invites local partners to host an AmeriCorps NCCC team of 18- to 24- year-olds for approximately 6 weeks (40 hours per week) to meet community-identified needs. The 2026-2027 Request for Proposals (RFP) includes an overview of the AmeriCorps NCCC program and the application deadlines for projects through April 2027. AmeriCorps covers all costs, except the local partner provides housing for the Volunteers with a kitchen and showers.

‍Project focus areas include:

• Natural and other disasters

• Infrastructure improvement

• Environmental stewardship

• Energy conservation

• Urban and rural development

AmeriCorps Seniors is a network of volunteer programs for Americans aged 55 and older. It pairs older adults with local organizations to address community needs—such as tutoring children, supporting vulnerable seniors, and food distribution. Through active community engagement, AmeriCorps Seniors Volunteers gain social and health benefits in addition to modest stipends from some programs. AmeriCorps typically makes multi-year commitments to partners who manage the programs by county or other geographic zones. Interested grant applicants are encouraged to learn more about the current programs in Rhode Island and the variations of these programs.

RSVP (Retired and Senior Volunteer Program): This is a flexible program. Volunteers choose how, where, and when they want to serve, with commitments ranging from a few hours to 40 hours a week. Example activities include tutoring, disaster response, food distribution, and tax assistance.

Senior Companion Program: Volunteers offer emotional and physical support to other adults who have difficulty with daily living tasks. This helps peers live independently at home and provides vital respite for family caregivers.

Foster Grandparent Program: Volunteers act as mentors, tutors, and caretakers to children and youth who are differently abled or have exceptional needs. They help kids succeed in schools, hospitals, and child-care settings.