Investing in the future of civic engagement and public service, three Tennessee organizations have been named as the latest recipients of the Volunteer Tennessee 2024-25 planning grants. Officially announced by Volunteer Tennessee, a total of nearly $200,000 is to be divided between East Tennessee State University, Tennessee Charitable Care Network, and United Way of West Tennessee to develop programs in line with AmeriCorps' strategic focus areas.
The awarded funding serves to rapidly accelerate the planning phase for programs that align with national service priorities. It is expected that such injection of support will not only enhance the capacity of the recipients but also enrich their communities through initiatives spanning education, health, and environmental stewardship, among others. "We are pleased to support these organizations in their efforts to address Tennessee’s most pressing needs," stated Jim Snell, Volunteer Tennessee’s executive director, in a sentiment reflective of a commitment to service and solution-oriented approaches to prevalent challenges.
Each of these planning grants can provide up to $75,000 per organization and are pivotal in laying down the groundwork for sustainable AmeriCorps programs. Recipients are to spend the funds exclusively within Tennessee, bolstering efforts in one or more focus areas designated by AmeriCorps, including disaster services, economic opportunity, healthy futures, and support for veterans and military families.
By engaging strategically with these sectors, the organizations are expected to formulate responsive and impactful programs that will qualify for additional program grants in the 2025-26 cycle. "Their commitment to AmeriCorps’ priorities aligns with our mission to encourage national service, and we look forward to seeing their long-term positive impact," explained Snell.
