Retired and Senior Volunteer Program
Can you apply?
This grant is for organizations in Illinois that administer the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP). Eligible applicants are nonprofits, community colleges, and community-based organizations currently operating RSVP programs or seeking to establish them. Applicants must be able to engage volunteers age 55 and older in volunteer service roles. Programs must complement federal funding from the Corporation for National and Community Service. Geographic scope is limited to Illinois.
This grant is for organizations in Illinois that administer the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP). Eligible applicants are nonprofits, community colleges, and community-based organizations currently operating RSVP programs or seeking to establish them. Applicants must be able to engage volunteers age 55 and older in volunteer service roles. Programs must complement federal funding from the Corporation for National and Community Service. Geographic scope is limited to Illinois.
Program description
The purpose of the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) is to engage persons 55 years of age and older in volunteer service to meet critical needs and to provide a high quality of experience that will enrich the lives of the volunteers. Funds will be used to match and/or complement the federal funds the Grantee receives from the Corporation for National and Community Service. State General Funds
SGA Youth & Family Services RSVP 2701 = $64,903.00
CEFS Economic Opportunity Corp RSVP 2702 = $51,044.00
Great River Region RSVP 2708 = $23,823.00
Highland Community College RSVP 2715 = $37,870.00
Triton College RSVP 2722 = $33,714.00
Senior Services Associates Inc RSVP 2726 = $81,521.00
TOTAL $292,875.00 Administered by the Illinois Department on Aging via the Illinois GATA Catalog of State Financial Assistance (CSFA 402-03-1459).
Who can apply
Eligible applicants
Demographic focus
Details
This grant is for organizations in Illinois that administer the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP). Eligible applicants are nonprofits, community colleges, and community-based organizations currently operating RSVP programs or seeking to establish them. Applicants must be able to engage volunteers age 55 and older in volunteer service roles. Programs must complement federal funding from the Corporation for National and Community Service. Geographic scope is limited to Illinois.
How to apply
Application links
Required documents
- Application form (via Illinois GATA system)
- Project narrative describing RSVP program
- Detailed budget and budget narrative
- Organizational capacity documentation
- Evidence of federal RSVP funding or partnership
- Letters of support from community partners
- Proof of nonprofit status or eligibility
Program contact
- 👤 Matt Wescott
- 📧 matt.wescott@illinois.gov
- 📞 217-785-3357
FAQ
Who can apply for this grant?
Organizations in Illinois operating or planning to operate RSVP programs can apply. This includes nonprofits, community colleges, and community-based organizations serving seniors.
What is the funding amount?
Awards range from $23,578 to $81,521 depending on program scope and service area.
What is the deadline?
The deadline is June 19, 2026. Check the Illinois Department on Aging website for future year deadlines and any updates.
What should funds support?
Funds match or complement federal RSVP grants from the Corporation for National and Community Service for volunteer programming.
Is cost-sharing required?
No cost-sharing is required for this grant.
💡 Tips for applicants
- Demonstrate a track record of successfully recruiting and retaining senior volunteers age 55 and older. Show measurable outcomes from current or past RSVP programs.
- Clearly explain how state funds will complement (not replace) your federal RSVP grant. Describe specific activities and volunteer roles you'll fund.
- Include letters of support from community partners and volunteer testimonials. Show how the program benefits both volunteers and the communities they serve.
- Provide detailed budget allocation across staff, volunteer management, training, and program activities. Justify all expenses clearly.
- Submit your application early to allow time for questions from the Illinois Department on Aging. Follow all state GATA requirements carefully.
⚠️ Common mistakes
Applications fail when organizations don't clearly show how state funds complement (not duplicate) federal RSVP money. Many applicants underestimate volunteer management costs and lack clear outcome metrics. Proposals often miss state GATA formatting requirements or submit incomplete budget documentation.
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