AmeriCorps, the federal agency for national service and volunteerism, released today a notice of federal funding availability for the AmeriCorps Seniors Workforce Development Senior Demonstration Program. This grant will support projects focused on supporting older adults as they seek to secure employment in professional or skilled labor, or careers. Funding is open to nonprofit, faith-based, tribal and community-based organizations; higher-education institutions; state, local and territorial government entities. 

As an extension to the2022 pilot program, AmeriCorps Seniors seeks to enhance opportunities for adults ages 55+ to participate in national service activities, positively impact their community and gain the skills needed to transition back into the workforce. Designed to be sustainable and replicable, these programs are intended to extend beyond the period of AmeriCorps grant funding. This funding opportunity supports AmeriCorps Seniors’ commitment to funding programs that achieve sustainable change in communities and align with the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to diversity, equity, inclusivity and accessibility.  

“President Biden has prioritized building our economy and he’s taking bold steps to expand opportunity, create jobs, and provide relief to those who have been most affected during the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Michael D. Smith, AmeriCorps CEO. “That’s why, alongside communities across the country and our grantee organizations, we’re committed to building the skills, drive and creativity our workforce needs to create a stronger future regardless of age.”

AmeriCorps’ priorities for this funding opportunity include:

• Support older adults in obtaining permanent employment in skilled labor and professional careers, such as education, healthcare, engineering, law.
• Provide training and certification for employment including mentorship, coaching and transportation among other forms of support.
• Provide mentoring and/or coaching in regular increments, including during pre- and post- employment placement.
• Provide a competitive stipend to remove barriers for older adults to serve.

The application deadline is Wednesday, Feb. 1, 2023, at 5 p.m. ET. Successful applicants will be notified in April 2023. Read more details about the grant criteria and technical assistance opportunities.

Volunteers in AmeriCorps Seniors programs serve in all 50 states and the territories of Guam, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. AmeriCorps adapts to meet some of the most pressing needs of communities, advance civic engagement and empower individuals across the generations to improve lives and communities throughout the country.