Volunteer Tennessee, the Governor’s commission dedicated to volunteerism and service, has announced new funding opportunities for the 2025-26 period. These grants aim to enhance the capacity and sustainability of Tennessee’s volunteer sector. Since its inception in 1994, Volunteer Tennessee has distributed over $95 million in AmeriCorps and volunteer center grants across the state. These funds support local agencies in addressing needs related to education, social services, health and wellness, public safety, and the environment.
The commission comprises a 25-member, bi-partisan volunteer citizen board, appointed by the Governor, alongside eleven State Government ex-officio representatives. For more detailed information, interested parties can visit their website or follow them on social media platforms including Facebook, X, LinkedIn, and Instagram.
Additionally, AmeriCorps, a federal agency for national service and volunteerism, offers opportunities for Americans to engage in domestic service efforts. By tackling some of the nation’s most urgent challenges, AmeriCorps enhances lives, communities, and civic engagement. Each year, AmeriCorps places over 200,000 members and AmeriCorps Seniors volunteers in various service roles, while encouraging millions more to volunteer in capacities ranging from long-term to one-time engagements. Further information on AmeriCorps can be found at AmeriCorps.gov.
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Free Tax Assistance for Eligible Households
The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program is offering free tax assistance to households with incomes of $80,000 or less, as part of a financial stability initiative by the United Way of Rutherford and Cannon Counties. This service, available from January 30 to April 14, will be provided at multiple locations, including the Patterson Park Community Center in Murfreesboro, with IRS-certified volunteers offering basic tax return preparation and electronic filing. More information and required appointment items are available on their website.