MCSC offering Global Youth Service Day funding

The Michigan Community Service Commission (MCSC) is offering mini-grants for Global Youth Service Day volunteer projects ranging from $100-$1,000. Young people up to age 25 must be involved in elements of organizing the volunteer project including planning, recruiting, gaining support for the project among partners.

A youth involvement help guide is available here: Youth Changing the World Toolkit

Projects should have at least one adult associated with an eligible organization to support the youth and project. Entities eligible to apply for funding include nonprofit and faith organizations, municipalities, schools, and universities. Projects impacting traditionally underserved or underrepresented communities will be given preference. There is not a match requirement for this grant, but additional sponsors are encouraged.

Funding Levels and Volunteer Engagement

This grant is offered as a reimbursement after the project is complete. Applicants are encouraged to request funding based on their actual needs and project scope rather than applying for the maximum available amount. Proposals should include a clear project description and justified budget that demonstrates how the requested funds will be used to purchased items required for the project to be complete. Competitive applications will show a well-defined budget that aligns with the project’s goals and intended impact.

In addition to careful consideration of the essential needs for the project, funding requests should be aligned with the following:

• $1,000 grant to engage 150 youth volunteers or more.
• $750 grant to engage 101 to 149 youth volunteers.
• $500 grant to engage 76 to 100 youth volunteers.
• $250 grant to engage 51 to 75 youth volunteers.
• $100 grant to engage up to 50 youth volunteers.

Step Two - Design a Project Budget

Provide your entire project budget and identify the supplies the grant will purchase. The grant should not be used for salaries, volunteer meals, promotional items, and expensive equipment. Please keep in mind that items that are not environmentally friendly are discouraged and expenses related to printing, social media and marketing are not typically covered by this grant. It is recommended that you stretch your budget by asking volunteers to bring some of the equipment needed. (ex., rakes or common household items) If you are requesting items that can be reused, please list how they will be stored and available for future service projects.

Apply for funding on the Global Youth Service Day application site