Volunteer Generation Fund

The Volunteer Generation Fund (VGF) grant is designed to develop and support community-based organizations in recruiting, managing, and sustaining volunteers. AmeriCorps invests in effective strategies that expand volunteer engagement, strengthen the capacity of volunteer‑connector organizations to recruit and retain skilled volunteers, and promote the use of volunteers to address community challenges.

VGF resources may be used directly by the grantee or distributed through subgrants to community-based entities to support volunteer generation at the local level.

Serve Illinois utilizes VGF funding to support the Civics in the Classroom initiative, which aims to engage young Illinoisans early in civic participation and community service. Through this initiative, students gain exposure to volunteerism, civic responsibility, and community engagement as part of their educational experience.

As a result of the Volunteer Generation Fund grant, Illinois Civics in the Classroom was created and launched in 2024. The pilot cohort included educators from more than 15 counties and over 30 cities across the state. A total of 101 participants enrolled, and 90 successfully completed all program requirements. Upon completion, educators earned 24 professional development hours and received a micro‑credential added to their Professional Educator License.

The Teaching Civics for Justice Illinois program builds on this foundation by supporting inquiry-based and justice-centered Civics and Service Learning practices. The program provides a robust professional learning experience designed to revitalize Civics and Service Learning classrooms. Its goal is to help students deepen their inquiries, strengthen their analytical skills, and take meaningful action related to their communities, identities, and roles in the world.