The Michigan Community Service Commission (MCSC) is offering mini-grants for Global Youth Service Day projects ranging from $150-$1,500. Young people up to age 25 must be involved in elements of organizing the volunteer project including planning, recruiting, gaining support for the project among partners.
Projects should have at least one adult associated with an eligible organization to support the youth and project. Entities eligible to apply for funding include nonprofit and faith organizations, municipalities, schools, and universities. Projects impacting traditionally underserved or underrepresented communities will be given preference. There is not a match requirement for this grant, but additional sponsors are encouraged. Project funds will be paid electronically through the SIGMA System prior to the service events. Applicants MUST supply the organization's SIGMA and UEI information at the time of application.
Project Dates: Must be held anytime between April 1 - May 12, 2026
Application Deadlines: Priority deadline for first‑round funding is February 27, 2026, and applicants meeting this date will be considered for the highest funding amounts. A later, non‑priority deadline of March 9, 2026, is available, though grants after the priority date may be more limited.
Funding Levels and Volunteer Engagement
Applicants are encouraged to request funding based on their actual needs and project scope rather than applying for the maximum available amount. Proposals should include a clear project description and justified budget that demonstrates how the requested funds will be used to purchased items required for the project to be completed. Competitive applications will show a well-defined budget that aligns with the project’s goals and intended impact. For ideas to engage youth in planning the service project, take a look the Youth Service America’s
Youth Changing the World Toolkit
In addition to careful consideration of the essential needs for the project, funding requests should be aligned with the following:
$1,500 grant to engage 200 volunteers or more
$900 grant to engage 150 to 199 volunteers
$700 grant to engage 100 to 149 volunteers
$350 grant to engage 75 to 99 volunteers
$150 grant to engage up to 74 volunteers
Implementing the Project
Step One - Create the Project Plan to Address a Community Need
The project should focus on an issue of importance to young people. The MCSC offers the following list of potential projects:
Volunteer project ideas list
Step Two - Design a Project Budget
Provide your entire project budget and identify the supplies the grant will purchase. The grant should not be used for salaries, volunteer meals, promotional items, and expensive equipment. Please keep in mind that items that are not environmentally friendly are discouraged and expenses related to printing, social media and marketing are not typically covered by this grant. It is recommended that you stretch your budget by asking volunteers to bring some of the equipment needed. (ex., rakes or common household items) If you are requesting items that can be reused, please list how they will be stored and available for future service projects.
For questions about this grant, please email: LEO-VolunteerMichigan@michigan.gov
