Volunteer Florida is pleased to announce the release of the FY 2026 AmeriCorps VISTA Concept Paper Guidance for organizations interested in hosting an AmeriCorps VISTA member beginning in August 2026.

Program Overview
Volunteer Florida administers an intermediary AmeriCorps VISTA (Volunteers in Service to America) program in partnership with AmeriCorps, the federal agency for national service and volunteerism. This program supports nonprofit organizations and public agencies by providing dedicated members who help strengthen organizational capacity and expand services to communities across Florida.

AmeriCorps VISTA members serve full-time for one year and focus on capacity-building activities that create sustainable solutions in key impact areas, including:

  • Health
  • Education
  • Environmental protection, conservation, and natural resources
  • Public safety
  • Economic opportunity and employment
Through this initiative, Volunteer Florida advances long-term, community-driven solutions that promote economic mobility and increase organization capacity.

Submission Deadline
Organizations interested in hosting and supporting an AmeriCorps VISTA member must submit a Concept Paper by Friday, April 24, 2026 (end of day). Selected VISTA members will begin service in August 2026.

FY 2026 August Cohort Timeline

  • Concept Paper Release Date — March 23, 2026
  • Concept Paper Submission Deadline — April 24, 2026
  • Review & Scoring Period — May 4–8, 2026
  • Selection Notification — May 8, 2026
Click here to submit your Concept Paper.
Key Benefits for VISTA Sponsors
Capacity Building
VISTA members develop sustainable systems such as new programs, volunteer engagement strategies, and fundraising initiatives enabling organizations to expand their long-term impact.Cost-Effective Staffing
Sponsors gain a dedicated, full-time team member for a one-year term, significantly enhancing organizational capacity at a low cost.

Member Support & Administration
AmeriCorps manages recruitment, onboarding, and provides basic health benefits, reducing administrative responsibilities for sponsoring organizations.

Training & Networking Opportunities
Sponsors have access to professional development opportunities, including the VISTA Sponsor Convening, as well as ongoing networking and collaboration opportunities.

Additional Resources:

To learn more about the VISTA grant opportunity, please click here.

The submission deadline is Friday, April 24, 2026.