Global Volunteer Month Mini-Grants Request for Proposals

In conjunction with Global Volunteer Month in April 2024, the United Way Engagement Team has developed a framework to provide ten $1,000 mini-grants that fund volunteer project supplies to nonprofit and community organizations throughout Wayne, Oakland and Macomb counties.

This mini-grant program has few restrictions and requirements to remove some of the common barriers between organizations and funding. Overall, we hope that the Volunteer Project Mini-Grant Program helps the organization build brand recognition in the community and mobilize groups to volunteer, give and advocate in partnership with United Way for Southeastern Michigan.

ELIGIBILITY

  • Groups must operate within Wayne, Macomb and/or Oakland counties.
  • Groups applying for the mini-grants program are not required to have 501(c)3 status but will need to locate a fiduciary to oversee funds if they are not a 501(c)3.
  • Public (K-12) schools are also eligible to apply (Governmental Information Letter may be requested).
  • There is no minimum yearly budget.
  • Projects must take place within Wayne, Macomb and/or Oakland counties.
  • Projects must engage a minimum of 10 volunteers.
  • Groups must be able to meet all contractual and reporting requirements.
  • Projects must occur between April 1-30, 2024.

SNAPSHOT OF KEY INFORMATION

Project Examples:   

  • Host a neighborhood cleanup or beautification project (indoor or outdoor).
  • Collect, organize and distribute canned goods, clothing or other resources.
  • Start a new community garden or work on an existing one in your neighborhood.

Reporting Requirements:   

  • Recruit the volunteers you need for your project yourself.
  • Completion of post-project Impact Report (Required questions to be provided by United Way for Southeastern Michigan).
  • Take pictures during the project and post them on social media -or- send to United Way for Southeastern Michigan.
  • Provide a list of the volunteers with contact information who attended your project.

Timeline

Monday, Jan. 15: Application opens

10-11 a.m. on Thursday, Jan. 18: Applicant webinar (Click here to register)

5 p.m. Friday, Jan. 26: Application closes

Friday, Feb. 23: Award announcements

March 1-April 30, 2024: Effective grant dates

Friday, May 10: End of contract report

Grant Resources

Application Questions

Scoring Rubric

Contact information

If you have any questions, please reach out to Kristen Cibulskis, director, engagement, at Kristen.Cibulskis@UnitedWaySEM.org.

Applying for grants using SurveyMonkey Apply

United Way for Southeastern Michigan accepts grant applications through our grants management system, SurveyMonkey Apply. Organizations must register as a user of the system prior to applying for these grant opportunities.

For more information about navigating Survey Monkey Apply, use the resources and links listed below to assist you as you explore current and future grant opportunities.

If you are new to Survey Monkey Apply and wish to apply for grants with United Way, please follow the steps below using the links and resources provided.

  1. Click here to register your organization.
  2. Using your new login, you must pre-register for grant opportunities by completing the Organization + Financial Information application. This and other opportunities can also be found under “Programs” at the top of your welcome screen.

If you require additional assistance with SurveyMonkey Apply, please email: sma@UnitedWaySEM.org.