The grants are designed to assist nonprofits in securing previously untapped sources of private funds to build sustainable service and volunteer programs. Organizations receiving funds through these grants must either greatly expand services by engaging citizens in meeting community needs or offer new services through expanded citizen engagement.

“This is the first time we have offered challenge grants, and we hope a wide range of organizations will apply,” said Corporation CEO Leslie Lenkowsky. “To expand service opportunities on the scale the President has called for will take the involvement of all sectors. These challenge grants will spur additional private support to help us create a culture of service, responsibility and citizenship.”

The Corporation anticipates making between two and 12 grants through this program, with a minimum grant level of $500,000 and a maximum level of $3 million. Applicants must provide at least $2 in private funding to match every federal dollar. Matching funds must be cash. The awards will cover a period not to exceed one year. A more detailed description of the funding opportunity is available at http://www.nationalservice.org/whatshot/notices.html.

Eligible nonprofit organizations, including those that have not applied for federal assistance from the Corporation in the past, as well as interested faith-based and community-based organizations, are encouraged to apply. The Corporation requires applicants to apply through its eGrant electronic system, which may be accessed at www.cns.gov/egrants/index.html. However, if for a legitimate reason an applicant must submit a paper application, it must be received by 5 p.m., April 10. Selections should be announced by June 9. For further information, contact Thea Kachoris at 312/353-50556 or takachoris@cns.gov.

The Corporation for National and Community Service provides opportunities for Americans of all ages and backgrounds to serve their communities and country through three programs: Senior Corps, AmeriCorps, and Learn and Serve America. Together, the programs of the Corporation engage more than two million Americans each year in meeting critical needs in education, the environment, public safety, homeland security, and other areas. The Corporation and its programs are part of USA Freedom Corps, a White House initiative to foster a culture of citizenship, service, and responsibility, and help all Americans answer the President’s Call to Service.