RSVP - Previous Change Logs 2017-2022 

Version 2023.1 Pg. 1 of 19

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FGP. RSVP, and/or SCP grantees page.

RSVP – Previous Change Logs 2017-2022

This table lists all changes made in previous revisions of the RSVP Operations Handbook, beginning with 

January 2017 to 2022. For the most recent changes, please see the Change Log in the front of the 

current RSVP Operations Handbook. All page numbers are accurate at the time of the original revision. 

Some content may shift in future revisions.

Edits made in Version 2017.1 (January 2017)

Change 

Number

Chapter and Page 

Number

Change

1 This change is not 

related to a specific 

chapter.

A new method of tracking versions has been implemented, 

labeling each revision by the calendar year and calendar 

quarter of the publication. For example, CNCS published this 

revision in January (Quarter 1) of 2017, so this is Version 

2017.1 

2 This change is not 

related to a specific 

chapter.

We have combined the appendices of each program’s 

handbook (the SCP Operations Handbook, FGP Operations 

Handbook and RSVP Operations Handbook) and introduced 

a new numbering system. This simplifies the use of 

appendices for sponsors with multiple programs, allows for 

greater consistency among the programs, and will enable 

CNCS to update them quickly and accurately in the future. 

We have added a new chapter, Chapter 14: Description and 

List of Appendices, with more information. Internal 

references to specific appendices have been updated 

accordingly.

3 This change is not 

related to a specific 

chapter.

This change log was added.

4 This change is not 

related to a specific 

chapter.

This version contains several formatting changes to allow for 

more accurate, consistent updates. This includes the 

formatting of the Preface, the Table of Contents, and page 

headers.

5 This change is not 

related to a specific 

chapter.

The capitalization of the names of the Senior Companion 

Program and Foster Grandparent Programs have been 

standardized to include a capital “P.”

6 This change is not 

related to a specific 

chapter.

All dates are written out in full, without ordinal suffixes. For 

example: March 31, not 3/31. Years are included as 

necessary on a case-by-case basis.
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FGP. RSVP, and/or SCP grantees page.

Change 

Number

Chapter and Page 

Number

Change

7 Chapter 1: Introduction 

and Overview (pg. 1)

Minor edits for grammar and style were made to the CNCS 

Overview section.

8 Chapter 1: Introduction 

and Overview (pg. 10)

Information has been added about Litmos, CNCS’ learning 

management system. Links have also been updated.

9 Chapter 2: Project 

Operations (pg. 17), 

Chapter 6: Volunteer 

Stations (pg. 38), 

Chapter 8: RSVP 

Volunteers (pg. 47), 

Appendix B.1: Sample 

Memorandum of 

Understanding (formerly 

Appendix 1)

Language describing the anti-discrimination responsibilities 

of a sponsor has been updated to align with the language 

included in the RSVP Terms and Conditions. (See “CNCS 

Grant Program Civil Rights and Non-Harassment Policy.”)

10 Chapter 2: Project 

Operations (pg. 18)

A link has been added to the Davis-Bacon Act. 

11 Chapter 6: Volunteer 

Stations (pg. 37)

A sentence has been added to specify that the effective date 

of a memorandum of understanding must be on or after the 

date it is signed.

12 Chapter 9: RSVP 

Volunteer Cost 

Reimbursements (pg. 58)

Minor changes were made to Section 9.2.2 on Meal 

Reimbursements for clarity. These changes do not change 

the substantive meaning of this section.

13 Chapter 9: RSVP 

Volunteer Cost 

Reimbursements (pg. 59)

The text of Section 9.2.3 on insurance requirements for 

volunteers has been edited to more clearly identify 

minimum insurance requirements. It also now incorporates 

relevant information that was previously in a stand-alone 

memo titled “Senior Corps Insurance Requirements.” 

Specific coverage requirements are now in a new appendix, 

Appendix A.13.

14 Chapter 10: Grants 

Management (pg. 70)

A statement on interest earned on advances has been 

amended to indicate that projects may retain the first $500 

of interest per year to cover administrative expenses, not 

$250 as originally stated. 

15 Chapter 11: Reports and 

Record Keeping (pg. 78)

Information has been added to clarify the application of 

record retention requirements to volunteer files. 

16 Chapter 13: RSVP 

Handbook Cross 

Reference Index (pg. 91)

A link to information on Indirect Cost Rates has been 

updated.
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Change 

Number

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Number

Change

17 Appendix A.3 (formerly 

Appendix 14): Guidance 

on Recognition Costs

This document has been edited to clarify the fact that costs 

associated with special guests at recognition events are 

generally allowable, whereas costs associated with guests of 

volunteers are not.

18 Appendix A.5: Guidance 

on Closing Out Your 

CNCS Grant (Formerly 

Appendix 16)

A reference to a grant ending on April 30 has been changed 

to March 31.

19 Appendix A.12: NSCHC 

Supplement (Formerly 

Chapter 14)

Chapter 14, a supplement on the National Service Criminal 

History Checks, has been converted to an appendix, A.12, 

and its contents updated to apply to all programs. 

Information clarifying the applicability of the NSCHC 

requirements to non-federally funded Senior Demonstration 

Grants has also been added. Several links have also been 

updated.

20 Appendix B.1 (formerly 

Appendix 1)

A sentence in the sample Station Memorandum of 

Understanding regarding its effective date has been edited.

21 Appendix B.3: Sample 

Timesheet and Mileage 

Reimbursement Form

Sample text concerning meals has been updated to align 

with the guidance in Section 9.2.2.

22 Appendix 12: Sample 

Office Space Cost 

Allocation Worksheet

This appendix has been removed.

Edits made in Version 2017.2 (April 2017)

Change Number Chapter and Page 

Number

Change

1 Change Log, Appendix 

B.9 and Chapter 14: 

Description and List of 

Appendices (pg. 95)

The Change Log from the previous version of this Handbook 

(2017.1) has been moved to a new Appendix, Appendix B.9. 

This Appendix will collect all Change Logs going forward for 

historical reference. The Change Log at the front of this 

publication contains only the updates made in this revision 

of the Handbook. We have updated Chapter 14: Description 

and List of Appendices to reflect this change.

2 Chapter 2: Project 

Operations (pg. 17) and 

RSVP Handbook Cross 

Reference Index 

Links to CNCS’s Frequently Asked Questions on Lobbying and 

Partisan Political Activity have been added to this chapter 

and the Cross Reference Index.
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Change Number Chapter and Page 

Number

Change

3 Chapter 3: Performance 

Measurement and 

Evidence-Based 

Programming (pg. 25), 

Appendix A.14 and 

Chapter 14: Description 

and List of Appendices 

(pg. 95)

We have added a new appendix, Appendix A.14, which lists 

evidence-based programs and registries known to Senior 

Corps at the time of publication. We have also added a 

reference to this appendix in Chapter 3: Performance 

Measurement and Evidence-Based Programming. We have 

updated Chapter 14, “Description and List of Appendices” to 

reflect this change.

4 Chapter 5: Project Staff 

(pg. 28)

An erroneous reference to the Foster Grandparent Program 

has been corrected to refer to the RSVP Program.

5 Chapter 6: Volunteer 

Stations (pg. 37)

Information on Letters of Agreement for In-Home 

Assignments has been edited to refer readers to the more 

complete information provided in Chapter 7. (See next edit 

for more information.)

6 Chapter 7: RSVP 

Volunteer Assignments 

(pg. 44) and Appendix 

B.5: Letters of 

Agreement for In-Home 

Assignments 

Information on Letters of Agreement for In-Home 

Assignments located in Chapter 7: RSVP Volunteer 

Assignments, Chapter 6: Volunteer Stations, and Appendix 

B.5 has been consolidated into this Chapter. We have also 

added information indicating that assignment plans and 

letters of agreement may be combined in appropriate 

situations. Appendix B.5 has been simplified so that it only 

contains an editable sample letter of agreement.

7 Chapter 7: RSVP 

Volunteer Assignments 

(pg. 44)

Guidance on an appropriate teleservice policy has been 

added.

8 Chapter 9: RSVP 

Volunteer Cost 

Reimbursements (pg. 63)

Information on recognition has been updated to clarify that 

recognition may include informal recognition methods 

throughout the year, in addition to formal, public 

recognition. 

9 Chapter 10: Grants 

Management (pg. 66)

Text concerning the allowability of costs related to optional 

criminal history checks on RSVP volunteers has been 

amended to clarify that this refers only to these optional, 

supplementary checks, not the mandatory National Service 

Criminal History Check process required by law for RSVP 

staff. 

10 Chapter 11: Reports and 

Record Keeping (pg. 84)

The beginning of Section 11.3 on Project Compliance 

Monitoring Site Visits has been edited to clarify that a 

compliance monitoring visit to a project must occur at least 

once every six years and may occur in the interim years as 

well for a variety of reasons. 
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Change Number Chapter and Page 

Number

Change

11 Appendix A.7: Quick 

Reference Guide for 

Senior Corps Reports

Information on the PRS (formerly known as the PPVA) has 

been updated. 

Edits made in Version 2017.3 (July 2017)

Change 

Number

Chapter and Page 

Number

Change

1 This change is not 

related to a specific 

chapter.

The spelling of “recordkeeping” has been standardized throughout 

this handbook.

2 Chapter 1: Introduction 

and Overview (pg. 1)

Minor changes were made to the “CNCS Overview” section for 

clarity.

3 Chapter 3: Performance 

Measurement and 

Evidence-Based 

Programming (pg. 23), 

Chapter 6: Volunteer 

Stations (pg. 39) 

Chapter 14: Description 

and List of Appendices 

(pg. 97), Appendix A.16

Appendix A.16, a sample data sharing agreement has been added. A 

reference to this document has been added to Chapter 3 and 

Chapter 6. The appendix also been added to the cross-reference 

index and list of appendices in Chapter 14.

4 Chapter 4: Community 

Participation (pg. 27)

Text has been added to clarify the allowability of costs related to 

advisory councils. 

5 Chapter 8: RSVP 

Volunteers (pg. 54)

Text has been added to clarify sponsors’ responsibility to review the 

age eligibility of RSVP volunteers. 

6 Chapter 11: Reports and 

Recordkeeping (pg. 80-

81)

Additional information on the confidentiality of volunteer records 

has been added, including information on grantees’ responsibility to 

safeguard confidential volunteer information and how to respond to 

potential breaches, with links to additional resources and 

information.

7 Appendix A.3: Guidance 

on Recognition Costs

References to the Code of Regulations have been added. In addition, 

text on the use of leave as a form of recognition has been added, 

with a link to pre-existing guidance on using leave as a form of 

recognition. Finally, guidance on “Special Volunteer Recognition” 

has been clarified to indicate that special volunteer recognition may 

include milestones in service or other special achievements.
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Change 

Number

Chapter and Page 

Number

Change

8 Appendix A.15: 

Guidance on Prohibition 

of Fee-for-Service 

Activities 

Pre-existing guidance on the prohibition on fee-for-service activities 

has been incorporated into this handbook as Appendix A.15. The 

content of the document has not been edited. Internal references 

have also been edited to refer to this appendix.

Edits made in Version 2017.4 (October 2017)

Change 

Number

Chapter and Page 

Number

Change

1 This change is not 

related to a specific 

chapter.

A link to a list of all appendices, including editable versions of 

samples and templates, has been added to the bottom of each 

appendix and Chapter 14.

2 Chapter 8: RSVP 

Volunteers (pg. 55)

An overview of basic adult learning principles has been added to this 

chapter.

3 Appendix A.17 A sample in-kind contribution form has been added as Appendix 

A.17.

Edits made in Version 2018.1 (January 2018)

Change 

Number

Chapter and Page 

Number

Change

1 Chapter 6: Volunteer 

Stations (pg. 37)

Additional information has been added about how to document 

volunteer station cash or in-kind support, particularly with regards 

to how to distinguish such support from a fee-for-service 

relationship.

2 Chapter 11: Reports and 

Recordkeeping (pg. 81)

Further guidance on electronic records, including electronic 

“signatures,” has been added.

3 Appendix B.1: Sample 

Memorandum of 

Understanding

Text has been added to #2 in “Other Provisions” to more fully 

explain the requirement for a Letter of Agreement for in-home 

assignments. A reference to a blank Letter of Agreement has been 

removed. 

4 Appendix A.18, 

Appendix B.9, and 

Appendix B.10

Guidance on Senior Corps and RSVP in times of disaster has been 

updated and expanded. This information, formerly in Appendix A.18, 

has been moved to Appendix B.9. The Previous Change Log, which 

was formerly Appendix B.9, is now Appendix. B.10. References 

within this document to any of these appendices have also been 

updated.
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Edits made in Version 2018.2 (April 2018)

Change 

Number

Chapter and Page 

Number

Change

1 Chapter 1: Introduction 

and Overview (pg. 6) 

and RSVP Handbook 

Cross Reference Index

Information on CNCS’ Office of External Affairs has been updated, 

including a link to its new Communications Resource page.

2 Chapter 1: Introduction 

and Overview (pg. 11) 

and RSVP Handbook 

Cross Reference Index

A link to the Federal Register has been added.

3 Chapter 2: Project 

Operations (pg. 16)

Language has been updated to clarify that policies regarding 

prohibited activities are required, not encouraged.

4 Chapter 5: Project Staff 

(30)

A reference to staffing appropriately to implement “evidence-based 

programming” has been broadened to reflect other ways programs 

can strengthen how they build and use evidence.

5 Chapter 5: Project Staff 

(31)

Information on engaging volunteers in staff activities has been 

updated to clarify that up to 5% of the total number of RSVP 

volunteers may be assigned to administrative and support activities.

6 Chapter 6: Volunteer 

Stations (pg. 36)

A link to CNCS’s Superintendent’s/Principal’s Toolkit has been 

added.

7 Chapter 10: Grants 

Management (pgs. 70-

71)

Information on the required non-federal share for RSVP programs 

that occurred in two paragraphs has now been condensed to only 

appear in one paragraph. In addition, more information on how to 

calculate the required non-federal share, including a formula, has 

been added. 

8 Appendix A.4 and A.11 Minor typos in these two appendices have been corrected.

Edits made in Version 2018.3 (July 2018)

Change 

Number

Chapter and Page 

Number

Change

1 Chapter 1: Introduction 

and Overview (pg. 11)

More detailed instructions have been added for signing up to 

Litmos, including information on how to sign up for courses relevant 

to more than one Senior Corps programs. Information about the 

Senior Corps New Project Curricula have also been added.
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Change 

Number

Chapter and Page 

Number

Change

2 Chapter 9: RSVP 

Volunteer Cost 

Reimbursements (pg. 

63)

Language addressing the specific allowability of congregate meals as 

non-federal share has been edited to redirect grantees to guidance 

in Chapter 10 of this handbook, which addresses when federal funds 

granted by an agency other than CNCS can be used as non-federal 

share generally. 

3 Chapter 10: Grants 

Management (pg. 73)

Links have been added to the portions of the Uniform Guidance that 

stipulate that funds used as non-federal share for another federal 

grant may not be included as non-federal share for a CNCS grant and 

that identify when funds from another federal agency may be 

included as non-federal share (2 CFR 200.306). In addition, more 

detail has been added to the discussion of using funds from another 

federal program as non-federal share. 

Edits made in Version 2018.4(October 2018)

Change 

Number

Chapter and Page 

Number

Change 

1 Appendix A.12 NSCHC 

Supplement

This appendix has been removed. All references to this appendix 

now route users to the CNCS Knowledge Network page on Criminal 

History Checks 

(https://www.nationalservice.gov/resources/criminal-history-check). 

2 Appendix A.12 Senior 

Corps Minimum 

Insurance Coverage 

Requirement

(Formerly Appendix 

A.13)

Senior Corps Minimum Insurance Coverage Requirement, previously 

named “Appendix A.13” has been renamed “Appendix A.12.”

3 Appendix A.13 

Evidence-Based 

Programs and 

Registries

(Formerly Appendix 

A.16)

Evidence-Based Programs and Registries, previously named 

“Appendix A.14” has been renamed “Appendix A.13.”

4 Appendix A.14 

Guidance on Fee-forService Prohibition

(Formerly Appendix 

A.15)

Guidance on Fee-for-Service Prohibition, previously named 

“Appendix A.15” has been renamed “Appendix A.14.”
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Change 

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Number

Change 

5 Appendix A.15 Sample 

Data Sharing 

Agreement

(Formerly Appendix 

A.16) 

The Sample Data Sharing Agreement, previously named “Appendix 

A.16” has been renamed “Appendix A.15.”

6 Appendix A.16 Sample 

In-Kind Contribution 

Form

(Formerly Appendix 

A.17)

The Sample In-Kind Contribution Form, previously named “Appendix 

A.17” has been renamed “Appendix A.16.”

7 This change is not 

related to a specific 

chapter

Broken hyperlinks were updated throughout the document.

Edits made in Version 2019.1

(January 2019)

A Note on Changes Resulting from the Final Rule:

On December 17, 2018, the Final Rule for the Foster Grandparent Program (FGP), Senior Companion 

Program (SCP), and RSVP was posted to the Federal Register. After a 45-day public review period, 

updated regulations for all three programs became effective on January 31, 2019.

These regulations affect many aspects of program operations described in this handbook. Due to the 

scope of the changes, it is not practical to identify each change by page number. Instead, the major 

changes in each chapter are listed below. In addition, the changes in this Handbook focus on compliant, 

effective practice going forward, so that this document remains relevant in the future. In general, they 

do not make explicit before-and-after comparisons of regulation prior to and following the effective 

date of the Final Rule. Additional resources that do focus on this transition are available at Senior Corps’ 

Final Rule Headquarters. 

You may suggest additional changes or guidance by emailing SeniorCorpsHandbooks@cns.gov. 

This update also contains some changes that are not directly related to the Final Rule. As a result, the 

changes below are presented in two sections. The first outlines the changes directly related to the Final 

Rule. The second contains all other changes. Changes that are not directly related to the Final Rule are 

identified by page number, as in prior change logs.
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A. Changes Relating to the Final Rule

Chapter Changes

Chapter 1: Introduction and 

Overview

Annual volunteer physical examination requirement was removed.

Excess Automobile Liability Insurance was added to program 

definitions.

Minimum requirement of volunteer service hours was reduced.

Chapter 2: Project Operations Annual service plan and annual assessment requirements was 

removed.

Guidance surrounding project staff compensation was updated.

A new definition of “Proprietary Health Care Organization” was 

added.

Chapter 4: Community 

Participation

Annual service plan and annual assessment requirements were 

removed. 

Chapter 5: Project Staff Guidance surrounding project staff compensation was updated.

Chapter 6: Volunteer Stations A new definition of “Proprietary Health Care Organization” was 

added.

Text referring to “no more than 5% of the total number of volunteers 

budgeted for a project are assigned to it I administrative or support 

positions” has been removed.

Chapter 9: RSVP Volunteer Cost 

Reimbursements

Text was added to clarify that cost reimbursements such as 

recognition and insurance must be provided; meals and 

transportation may be provided.

Appendix A References to the Direct Benefit Ratio or “80/20 rule” were removed 

(A.3 and A.7).

Annual Project Assessment was removed (A.5).

Appendix B Text was added to clarify that insurance must be provided (B2).

B. All Other Changes

Change 

Number

Chapter and Page 

Number

Change 

1 Chapter 2.2.1 (pg. 15), 

Chapter 2.3.4 (pg. 19), 

Non-discrimination language was updated to align with CNCS’ nondiscrimination policy.
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Chapter 6.3.3 (pg. 41), 

and Chapter 8.1.2 (pg. 

52)

2 Chapter 2: Project 

Operations (pg. 18)

Text has been added to provide clarification on religious activities and 

transportation assignments. 

3 Chapter 10: Grants 

Management (pg. 75)

Text has been added to specify the current Simplified Acquisition 

Threshold amount and its role in budget amendments that require 

prior approval from CNCS. 

4 Chapter 11: Reports 

and Recordkeeping (pg. 

83-84)

Salary and Wage documentation guidance has been updated to 

reflect the new Uniform Guidance requirements. Additionally, a link 

to the Uniform Guidance has been added. 

5 Appendix A Appendix A.1- Assurances and Appendix A.2- Certifications have been 

removed. All references to these appendices now route users to the 

CNCS Terms & Conditions and Certifications & Assurances for CNCS 

Grants page. As a result of removing A.1 and A.2, the remaining 

Appendix A appendices have been renumbered. References within 

this document to any of these appendices have also been updated.

6 Appendix A.5- Quick 

Reference Guide for 

Senior Corps Reports 

and Due Dates

References to Q1 and Q2 grants and their report due dates have been 

removed. 

7 Appendix A.11-

Evidence- Based 

Programs and 

Registries

Examples have been updated to reflect new Performance Measures.

8 Appendix A.13: Sample 

Data Sharing 

Agreement

Examples have been updated to reflect new Performance Measures. 

9 Appendix B Appendix B.8- Sample Annual Safety Assurance Email has been 

removed. As a result, the remaining Appendix B appendices have 

been renumbered. References within this document to any of these 

appendices have also been updated.

Edits made in Version 2019.2 (April 2019)

Change 

Number

Chapter and Page 

Number

Change

1 This change is not 

related to a specific 

chapter

Broken hyperlinks were updated throughout the document. 
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Change 

Number

Chapter and Page 

Number

Change

2 Chapter 1- Introduction 

and Overview (pg. 11)

Litmos Technical Support Contact Information was added. 

3 Chapter 10- Grants 

Management (pg. 74)

Text has been added to specify the current Simplified Acquisition 

Threshold amount and to clarify non-federal share. 

Edits made in Version 2019.3 (July 2019)

Change 

Number

Chapter and Page 

Number

Change

1 Chapter 1: Introduction 

and Overview (pg. 5)

Information on the Final Rule was added to the ‘History of RSVP’ 

section. 

2 Chapter 2: Project 

Operations (pg. 15)

The definitions of vulnerable populations and proprietary healthcare 

organizations were added to section 2.2 Sponsor Responsibilities. 

3 Chapter 6: Volunteer 

Stations (pg. 38)

The definition of proprietary health care organizations including tips 

on where to find a state’s regulatory agencies and licensing 

requirements was added.

4 Chapter 10: Grants 

Management (pg. 70)

Text was added to clarify cost allowability with respect to 

association and other board membership. 

5 Chapter 10: Grants 

Management (pg. 71)

Guidance on establishing an Indirect Cost Rate and definitions of 

Direct and Indirect Costs were updated. 

6 Chapter 10: Grants 

Management (pg. 81)

The ’10 Tips to Help Avoid Common Audit Findings’ were updated 

with language from the Final Rule. 

7 This change is not 

related to a specific 

chapter.

Broken hyperlinks were fixed throughout.

8 This change is not 

related to a specific 

chapter.

References to the Social Innovation Fund were removed.

9 This change is not 

related to a specific 

chapter.

References to ‘CNCS State Office’ were changed to ‘CNCS Program 

Officer’.

10 This change is not 

related to a specific 

chapter.

Hyperlinks to and citations for regulations were added throughout 

the handbook. 
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Edits made in Version 2019.4 (October 2019)

Change 

Number

Chapter and Page 

Number

Change

1 This change is not 

related to a specific 

chapter.

During the week of October 7, 2019, grantees located in states 

within CNCS’s new Mountain, North Central, and Northeast regions, 

will have their grants transitioned from existing Program and Grants 

Officers to their newly assigned Portfolio Managers. A map of the 

regions is located here. 

References to CNCS Program and Grants Officers were updated to 

also include these new CNCS Portfolio Managers throughout the 

handbook.

2 Chapter 8 : RSVP 

Volunteers (pg. 55)

The Senior Corps Pathfinder- the new national recruitment tool was 

introduced along with a link with instructions for how to update 

contact information.

3 Chapter 10: Grants 

Management ( pg. 81)

The OMB definition of grant was added. 

4 Appendix A.15- Final 

Rule Overview

The Final Rule overview on the www.nationalservice.gov website 

has been converted to Appendix A.15, and its contents have been 

updated to apply to all programs. 

5 Appendix A.16- Final 

Rule FAQs

The Final Rule FAQs on the wew.nationalservice.gov website has 

been converted to Appendix A.16, and its contents have been 

updated to apply to all programs. 

6 This change is not 

related to a specific 

chapter.

Broken hyperlinks were fixed throughout. 

Edits made in Version 2020.1 (January 2020)

Change 

Number

Chapter and Page 

Number

Change

1 This change is not 

related to a specific 

chapter.

During the week of October 7, 2019, grantees located in states 

within CNCS’s new Mountain, North Central, and Northeast regions, 

will have their grants transitioned from existing Program and Grants 

Officers to their newly assigned Portfolio Managers. A map of the 

regions is located here. 

References to CNCS Program and Grants Officers were updated to 

also include these new CNCS Portfolio Managers throughout the 

handbook.

2 This change is not 

related to a specific 

chapter.

Broken hyperlinks were fixed throughout. 
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Edits made in Version 2020.2 (April 2020)

Change 

Number

Chapter and Page 

Number

Change

1 This change is not 

related to a specific 

chapter.

In May 2020, grantees located in states within CNCS’s new Midwest, 

Southeast, and West regions, will have their grants transitioned 

from existing Program and Grants Officers to their newly assigned 

Portfolio Managers. A map of the regions is located here. 

References to CNCS Program and Grants Officers were updated to 

also include these new CNCS Portfolio Managers throughout the 

handbook.

2 This change is not 

related to a specific 

chapter.

Broken hyperlinks were fixed throughout. 

Edits made in Version 2020.3 (August 2020)

Change 

Number 

Chapter and Page 

Number 

Change 

1 This change is not 

related to a specific 

chapter. 

In May 2020, grantees located in states within CNCS’s new Mid 

Atlantic and South Central regions, will have their grants transitioned 

from existing Program and Grants Officers to their newly assigned 

Portfolio Managers. A map of the regions is located here. 

References to CNCS Program and Grants Officers were updated to 

also include these new CNCS Portfolio Managers throughout the 

handbook. 

2 This change is not 

related to a specific 

chapter. 

Broken hyperlinks were fixed throughout. 

3 Chapter 7: RSVP 

Volunteers (pg. 46) 

Information and links on COVID-19 Programming was added to the 

“Selection of Assignments” section. 

4 Appendix A.17: COVID19 Resource Toolkit This appendix was added to provide general information regarding 

safe volunteering, preparing your volunteers to serve during COVID19 and other resources which may help guide grantees during the 

unprecedented times. 

Edits made in Version 2020.4 (November 2020)

Change 

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1

This change is not 

related to a specific 

chapter.

As of September 29, 2020, The Corporation of National 

Community Services and Senior Corps will shift to AmeriCorps 

and AmeriCorps Seniors. The handbook has the following 

updates to reflect this rebranding:

• Updated Senior Corps to AmeriCorps Seniors.
RSVP - Previous Change Logs 2017-2022 

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FGP. RSVP, and/or SCP grantees page.

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• Updated CNCS to AmeriCorps.

• RSVP to AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP

• Updated RSVP volunteer to AmeriCorps Seniors 

volunteers.

• Updated Twitter handles for both AmeriCorps and 

AmeriCorps Seniors (pg. 55)

2

This change is not 

related to a specific 

chapter.

As of October 2020, all Program Officer and Grant Officer roles 

and responsibilities have transitioned to Portfolio Managers

3

This change is not 

related to a specific 

chapter.

Removed SeniorCorpsHandbooks@cns.gov email address. All 

questions or suggestions for handbook should be submitted to 

portfolio managers. 

4

Chapter 1: 

Introduction and 

Overview (pg. 2)

Provided information on AmeriCorps’ Transition and 

Sustainability Plan.

5

Chapter 1: 

Introduction and 

Overview (pg. 6)

Updated name of Office of External Affairs to Office of Strategic 

Engagement and Governmental Affairs

6

Chapter 1: 

Introduction and 

Overview (pg. 13)

Add comment about rebranding and regulations. As of 

September 29, 2020, CNCS and Senior Corps are doing business 

as AmeriCorps and AmeriCorps Seniors, respectfully. The eCFR 

will continue to use the legal names CNCS and Senior Corps

7

Chapter 2: Project 

Operations (pg. 14)

Removed Invitation to Apply, as only NOFOs will be created and 

used moving forward for Continuations, Renewals and 

Competitions.

8

Chapter 6: 

Volunteer Station 

Roster (pg. 40)

Added newly award grantee requirement to have Station Roster 

completed with PPR Lite.

9

Chapter 8: 

Volunteers in 

AmeriCorps Seniors 

SCP (pg. 55)

Added information on Facebook as a resource for recruitment.

10 Chapter 10: Role of 

the AmeriCorps 

Office of Grant 

Administration (pg. 

72) 

Updated transition of FFMC to OGA and Grant Officer duties to 

Portfolio Manager. 

11 Chapter 14 

Description and List 

of Appendices (pg. 

103) 

Added to Section A: All Programs. Appendix A.18 Technology 

Support Training- A list of technology focused training 

companies that are contractable for services to support training 

needs for volunteers. This information is provided for the 
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convenience of grantees, and AmeriCorps Seniors does not 

endorse these or any other vendors.

Edits made in Version 2021.1 (January 2021)

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1

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chapter.

• Updated links throughout the document

2

Chapter 7: 

AmeriCorps Seniors 

SCP Volunteer 

Assessments (PG. 

48)

• Update language in teleservice and link to AmeriCorps 

Seniors resources

Edits made in (April 2021) Version 2021.2

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1

This change is not 

related to a specific 

chapter.

• Update links throughout document. AmeriCorps and 

AmeriCorps Seniors resources are in the process of being 

transferred from NationalService.gov to AmeriCorps.gov.

2

Chapter 1: 

AmeriCorps 

Overview (PG 9)

• AmeriCorps Seniors Week will not be held in 2021, 

AmeriCorps Seniors will highlight AmeriCorps Seniors 

Program during the month of May, Older Americans 

Month.

3

Chapter 5: Project 

Staff (PG 34)

• AmeriCorps has published a new National Service 

Criminal History Check (NSCHC) regulation that will be 

effective May 1, 2021. Updates and additional resources 

provided

4

Chapter 7: 

AmeriCorps Seniors 

SCP Volunteer 

Assessments (46)

• Provided link to updated AmeriCorps Seniors Pandemic 

Recovery a Pathway to Service (updated March 2021)

5

Chapter 7: 

AmeriCorps Seniors 

SCP Volunteer 

Assessments (PG. 

48)

• Update language in teleservice to state approval from 

portfolio manager

6

Chapter 11.3 Project 

Compliance 

Monitoring (PG 91)

• Office of Monitoring provides additional information on 

Monitoring Activities Types and Monitoring Results and 

Corrective Actions plans
RSVP - Previous Change Logs 2017-2022 

Version 2023.1 Pg. 17 of 19

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FGP. RSVP, and/or SCP grantees page.

Edits made in (July 2021) Version 2021.3

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Chapter and Page 

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1.

This change is not 

related to a specific 

chapter.

• Update links throughout document. AmeriCorps and 

AmeriCorps Seniors resources are in the process of being 

transferred from NationalService.gov to AmeriCorps.gov. 

2. Appendix A • Added Appendix A. 19 Respite Survey

• Added Appendix A. 20 Independent Living Survey

3. Appendix A.1: 

Guidance on 

Recognition Costs

• Removed link to AmeriCorps Seniors Guidance on Leave 

as a Form of Volunteer Recognition.

• Added AmeriCorps Seniors Guidance on Leave as a Form 

of Volunteer Recognition as Appendix C.14.

Edits made in (October 2021) Version 2021.4

Change 

Number

Chapter and Page 

Number Change

1

This change is not 

related to a specific 

chapter.

• Update links throughout document. AmeriCorps and 

AmeriCorps Seniors resources are in the process of being 

transferred from NationalService.gov to AmeriCorps.gov.

2

Chapter 10: Budget 

Management (PG 

70)

• Limitation on Indirect Cost has been removed, it is no 

longer applicable. 

3 Chapter 10: Budget 

Management (PG 

73)

• Updated match waiver guidance to include 

documentation requirements and method for 

processing. 

4 Chapter 11: Project 

Compliance 

Monitoring (PG 90- 

91)

• Added image of the AmeriCorps monitoring activity 

lifecycle

• Added new section with monitoring resources. 

5 Appendix A. 21 

Disaster and 

Emergency Response

• Transitioned and updated Appendix E. 3 AmeriCorps 

Seniors and the AmeriCorps Senior Companion Program 

in Times of Disaster to Appendix A. 21 Disaster and 

Emergency Response. 
RSVP - Previous Change Logs 2017-2022 

Version 2023.1 Pg. 18 of 19

For all appendices, including editable versions of samples and templates, visit 

FGP. RSVP, and/or SCP grantees page.

Edits made in (January 2022) Version 2022.1

Change 

Number

Chapter and Page 

Number Change

1 

This change is 

not related to a 

specific 

chapter.

• Update links throughout document. AmeriCorps 

and AmeriCorps Seniors resources are in the 

process of being transferred from 

NationalService.gov to AmeriCorps.gov. 

2 Appendix A.22 • Added Review and Update Contact Information in 

eGrants 

3 

Appendix B.9 • Shifted changes report from 2017 to 2021 into RSVP 

Change Logs 2017-2022. All current changes for 

2022 will be logged in Appendix D. 5 Change Log 

4 Chapter 2: Project 

Operations (PG 20)

• Updated prohibited activities to include abortion 

services.

 

Edits made in (May 2022) Version 2022.2

Change 

Number

Chapter and Page 

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1.

This change is not 

related to a specific 

chapter.

• Update links throughout document. AmeriCorps and 

AmeriCorps Seniors resources are in the process of being 

transferred from NationalService.gov to 

AmeriCorps.gov. 

2. Chapter 4: Community 

Participation (pg 29)

• Added link to Appendix A.23 Understanding A. 23 –

Understanding the Roles of Responsibilities of Advisor 

Councils

3. Appendix A. 23

• Added Appendix A.23 Understanding A. 23 –

Understanding the Roles of Responsibilities of Advisor 

Councils

 

Edits made in (July 2022) Version 2022.3 

Change Number Chapter and Page 

Number Change

1 This change is not 

related to a specific 

chapter.

• Update links throughout document. AmeriCorps and 

AmeriCorps Seniors resources have been transferred from 

NationalService.gov to AmeriCorps.gov. As documents and 

pages are updated, this document is also updated. 

2 Chapter 1 (PG 8) • Added Mange your grant as resource to section Where can I 

find training and technical assistance information. 

• Added question and answer: Where can I find my Notice of 

Grant Award (NGA)?

3 Chapter 1 (PG 10-

11)

• Updated description of the AmeriCorps Seniors Foster 

Grandparent Program grantee page 

• Added Evaluations Resources section with description 

• Updated Code field for Litmos. ACS-FGP replaces SC-FGP. 

ACS- RSVP from SC-RSVP, and ACS-SCP from SC-SCP.
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Version 2023.1 Pg. 19 of 19

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FGP. RSVP, and/or SCP grantees page.

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4 Chapter 3 (PG 23) • Added link to six-model National Performance Measurement 

Core Curriculum series.

5 Chapter 4 (PG 30) • Updated link to Building an Effective Advisory Council

6 Chapter 10 (PG 70-

71

• Updated link to (45 CFR 2553.73(b)) and [45 CFR 2553.43 

(e)]

7 Chapter 10 (PG 771-

78)

• Updated Steps in Setting up a PMS account

• Removed statement about Portfolio Managers can log on to 

the PMS directly. Added guidance for receiving PMS support 

and guidance.

8 Chapter 14 (PG 

105)

• Updated editable Word and Excel formats are posted on the 

Foster Grandparent webpage.

9 Appendix • Added Senior Demonstrations Program (SDP) to 

Appendixes. 

Edits made in (October 2022) Version 2022.4

Change Number Chapter and 

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1 Chapter 2 (pg. 17) • Added a link to Appendix A.8 Fundraising FAQs to section 

2.2.2

2 Appendix • Changed the name of Appendix A.8 in the list of 

Appendices to Appendix A.8 Fund Raising and AmeriCorps 

Seniors Grants 

• Added the full text for Appendix A.8