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FGP- Previous Change Logs from 2017-2022 

Foster Grandparents Program – Previous Change Logs 2017-2022 

This table lists all changes made in previous revisions of the Foster Grandparent Program (FGP) 

Operations Handbook, beginning with January 2017 to 2022. For the most recent changes, please see 

the Change Log in the front of the current FGP 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.

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. 1)

A link to the Foster Grandparent Regulations was updated. 
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9 Chapter 1: Introduction 

and Overview (pg. 9)

Information has been added about Litmos, CNCS’ learning 

management system. Links have also been updated.

10 Chapter 2: Project 

Operations (pg. 18)

A link has been added to the Davis-Bacon Act 

11 Chapter 6: Volunteer 

Stations (pg. 38)

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 7: FGP 

Volunteer Assignments 

(pg. 44)

The maximum term of service for a Foster Grandparent has been 

corrected from 2,080 to 2,088.

13 Chapter 7: FGP 

Volunteer Assignments 

(pg. 45)

A typo has been corrected. 

14 Chapter 9: Volunteer 

Cost Reimbursements 

(pg. 62)

A link to the Office of General Counsel’s Income Disregard Memo 

has been updated.

15 Chapter 9: Volunteer 

Cost Reimbursements 

(pg. 65)

Minor changes were made to Section 9.2.3 on Meal 

Reimbursements for clarity. These changes do not change the 

substantive meaning of this section.

16 Chapter 9: Volunteer 

Cost Reimbursements 

(pg. 66)

The text of Section 9.2.4 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.

17 Chapter 10: Grants 

Management (pgs. 73)

The original version of this handbook contained an incorrect 

statement of the matching requirements for the Foster Grandparent 

Program. This was first corrected in a second edition of the 

handbook published shortly after its original 2017 publication date 

with a short note after the Table of Contents. This version includes 

the corrected text. It is noted here for clarity and completeness.

18 Chapter 10: Grants 

Management (pgs. 76-

8)

References to the Senior Companion Program were updated to 

correctly refer to the Foster Grandparent Program
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19 Chapter 11: Reports and 

Record Keeping (pg. 90)

Information has been added to clarify the application of record 

retention requirements to volunteer files. 

20 Chapter 13: FGP 

Handbook Cross 

Reference Index (pg. 

103)

A link to information on Indirect Cost Rates has been updated.

21 Appendix A.3 (formerly 

Appendix 3): 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.

22 Appendix A.5: Closing 

Out Your Grant 

(Formerly Appendix 4)

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

March 31.

23 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.

24 Appendix A.12: NSCHC 

Supplement (Formerly 

Chapter 14)

The original version of this handbook contained an incorrect 

statement regarding the applicability of the National Service 

Criminal History Checks to Foster Grandparent volunteers. This was 

first corrected in a second edition of the handbook published shortly 

after its original 2017 publication date with a short note after the 

Table of Contents. This version includes the corrected text. It is 

noted here for clarity and completeness. 

25 Appendix C.3: Sample 

Timesheet and Mileage 

Reimbursement Form

Sample text concerning meals has been updated to align with the 

guidance in Section 9.2.3.

26 Appendix C.8: Sample 

VSY Worksheet 

Formulas in the Excel version of this tool have been corrected.

27 Appendix 12: Sample 

Office Space Cost 

Allocation Worksheet

This appendix has been removed.
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Edits Made in Version 2017.2 (April 2017)

Change 

Number

Chapter and Page 

Number

Change

1 Change Log, Appendix 

D.3 and Chapter 14: 

Description and List of 

Appendices (pg. 106)

The Change Log from the previous version of this Handbook (2017.1) 

has been moved to a new Appendix, Appendix D.3. 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. 16) and 

FGP 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.

3 Chapter 3: Performance 

Measurement and 

Evidence-Based 

Programming (pg. 25), 

Appendix A.14 and 

Chapter 14: Description 

and List of Appendices 

(pg. 106)

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 EvidenceBased Programming. We have updated Chapter 14: Description and 

List of Appendices to reflect this change.

4 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.)

5 Chapter 7: FGP 

Volunteer Assignments

(pg. 44) and Appendix 

C.10: Letters of 

Agreement for In-Home 

Assignments 

Information on Letters of Agreement for In-Home Assignments 

located in Chapter 7: FGP Volunteer Assignments, Chapter 6: 

Volunteer Stations, and Appendix C.10 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 C.10 has been simplified so that it 

only contains an editable sample letter of agreement.

6 Chapter 7: FGP 

Volunteer Assignments 

(pg. 45)

Guidance on an appropriate teleservice policy has been added.

7 Chapter 9: FGP 

Volunteer Cost 

Reimbursements (pg. 

62)

Text has been added to clarify that the income disregard memo 

need not be updated every year and that the memo dating from 

2010 is the effective version of this memo.
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Number

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8 Chapter 9: FGP 

Volunteer Cost 

Reimbursements (pg. 

68)

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 11: Reports and 

Record Keeping (pg. 95)

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. 

10 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. 40) 

Chapter 14: Description 

and List of Appendices 

(pg. 109), 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: FGP 

Volunteers (pg. 57-58), 

Chapter 9: FGP 

Volunteer Cost 

Reimbursements (pg. 

68), Chapter 11: Reports 

In each of these locations, we have revised language to emphasize:

• A certification of physical fitness and income eligibility 

review are annual, not one time requirements.
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and Recordkeeping (pg. 

91-4)

• These documents are critical grant records and must be 

maintained in accordance with federal recordkeeping 

requirements.

• These requirements specify that grant records such as these 

must be maintained until at least three years from the date 

a sponsor submits the final FFR for the project period when 

the volunteer exits service or three years past the last audit, 

whichever is later.

An in-depth explanation of this requirement has been added to 

Chapter 11, with an example and chart. 

6 Chapter 8: FCP 

Volunteers (pg. 60)

An erroneous reference to a guidance document not relevant to this 

chapter has been removed.

7 Chapter 11: Reports and 

Recordkeeping (pg. 93)

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.

8 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.

9 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.
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2 Chapter 8: FGP 

Volunteers (pg. 51)

A sentence that previously indicated that MOUs had to be signed 

before volunteer recruitment has been corrected to indicate that 

MOUs must be in place prior to volunteer placement at a given 

station. 

3 Chapter 8: FGP 

Volunteers (pg. 55)

Per capita payments from certain tribal trust settlements have been 

added to the list of money receipts that should not be included in 

income for eligibility purposes.

4 Chapter 8: FGP 

Volunteers (pg. 55-56)

More explicit instructions on how to calculate income eligibility for 

volunteers have been added to clarify the recommended process. 

An example has also been added. 

5 Chapter 8: FGP 

Volunteers (pg. 59-66)

Section 8.6 on Training and Orientation has been substantially 

revised. It now includes in-depth information on the minimum 

requirements for orientation and training, including specific 

examples of how to apply those requirements in practice. It also 

contains an expanded description of potential content for 

orientations and trainings and an overview of basic adult learning 

principles. 

6 Chapter 8: FGP 

Volunteers (pg. 66)

Section 8.7, previously named “Terms of Service” has been renamed 

“Service Requirements.”

7 Chapter 8: FGP 

Volunteers (pgs. 67)

Text has been added to clarify that time spent in physical 

examinations to determine eligibility to serve count toward the 

minimum and maximum service requirements and volunteers 

should receive stipends for them, consistent with sponsor policies 

and procedures. 

8 Chapter 8: FGP 

Volunteers (pgs. 67)

Guidance on meeting service requirements at times when service 

opportunities may be less available, such as the summer, has been 

added.

9 Chapter 9: FGP 

Volunteer Cost 

Reimbursements (pg. 

70)

Repetitive text recommending that in-services and orientations may 

be used to advise volunteers of cost reimbursement policies has 

been removed.

10 Chapter 9: FGP 

Volunteer Cost 

Reimbursements (pg. 

70)

Text clarifying that the meaning of the terms “Direct Benefit Ratio” 

and “80/20 rule” have been added.
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11 Chapter 9: FGP 

Volunteer Cost 

Reimbursements (pg. 

70)

Text has been added to explain the situations when a waiver may be 

required from the Direct Benefit Ratio, as established in 45 CFR 

2552.92(e)(2).

12 Chapter 9: FGP 

Volunteer Cost 

Reimbursements (pg. 

72)

Text has been added to clarify that transportation costs for physical 

examinations to determine eligibility may be reimbursed by 

sponsors, consistent with sponsor policies and procedures. 

13 Appendix C.6 An erroneous, duplicative reference to the Senior Companion 

Program has been edited to correctly refer to the Foster 

Grandparent Program.

14 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

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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 8: FGP 

Volunteers (pg. 59)

A reference to “reserve” Foster Grandparent volunteers has been 

amended to instead refer to a waiting or contact list that can be 

used to fill new opportunities. 

3. Chapter 11: Reports and 

Recordkeeping (pg. 98)

Further guidance on electronic records, including electronic 

“signatures,” has been added.

4. Appendix A.18, 

Appendix D.3, and 

Appendix D.4

Guidance on Senior Corps and the Foster Grandparent Program in

times of disaster has been updated and expanded. This information, 

formerly in Appendix A.18, has been moved to Appendix D.3. The 

Previous Change Log, which was formerly Appendix D.3, is now 

Appendix. D.4. 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)

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1 Chapter 1: Introduction 

and Overview (pg. 5) 

and FGP 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. 10) 

and FGP 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 2: Project 

Operations (pg. 18)

A typo has been corrected to remove duplicative references to the 

FGP program.

5 Chapter 5: Project Staff 

(29)

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.

6 Chapter 5: Project Staff 

(pg. 30)

Information on engaging volunteers in staff activities has been 

edited to focus on non-FGP volunteers. 

7 Chapter 6: Volunteer 

Stations (pg. 36)

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

added.

8 Chapter 9: FGP Cost 

Reimbursements (pg.

70)

CNCS’ Office of General Counsel has issued a new income disregard 

memo. This is now reflected in the handbook.

9 Chapter 10: Grants 

Management (pg. 81-

82)

Information on the required non-federal share for FGP 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. 

10 Chapter 10: Grants 

Management (pgs. 86, 

88-90)

Information on managing VSYs has been updated to:

• Emphasize that the goal of any program is full expenditure 

of VSYs

• Take into account the requirement that all FGP grantees 

program at least one VSY in work plans that result in either 
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National Performance Measure outcomes or outputs related 

to the inclusion of individuals with disabilities for every 

$6,000 in federal funding they receive

• Update the minimum thresholds of VSY performance that 

prompt specific actions on the part of CNCS State Offices.

11 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. 9)

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.

2 Chapter 8: FGP Volunteers 

(pg. 51)

A typo in the introductory paragraph has been corrected.

3 Chapter 9: FGP Volunteer 

Cost Reimbursements (pg. 

75)

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.

4 Chapter 10: Grants 

Management (pg. 85)

A link has been added to the portion of the Uniform Guidance that 

identifies 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-historycheck). 
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Change 

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.”

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.
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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.

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 were 

removed.

Minimum requirement of ongoing in-service training was reduced.

Guidance surrounding project staff compensation was updated.

Chapter 5: Project Staff Guidance surrounding project staff compensation was updated.
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Chapter 6: Volunteer Stations A new definition of “Proprietary Health Care Organization” was 

added.

Minimum requirement of ongoing in-service training was reduced.

Regulation references were updated.

Chapter 7: FGP Volunteer 

Assignments

Guidance surrounding project staff compensation was updated.

Minimum requirement of volunteer service hours was reduced.

New definitions of “Children having exceptional needs” and 

“Children with special needs” were added.

Regulation references were updated.

Chapter 8: FGP Volunteers References to the physical examination requirement were removed.

Minimum requirement of volunteer service hours was reduced.

Minimum requirement of in-service training was reduced.

Additional guidance was added on sponsor service policies.

Non-stipend volunteer service requirements were revised to mirror 

stipended volunteer service requirements.

Regulation references were updated.

Chapter 9: FGP Volunteer Cost 

Reimbursements

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

removed. 

Removed requirement of using physical examinations to determine 

eligibility.

Physical examinations were added to the list of detailed volunteer 

cost reimbursements.

Regulation references were updated.

Chapter 10: Grant Management References to the Direct Benefit Ratio or “80/20 rule” were 

removed.

Requirement to separate any administrative cost related to nonstipend volunteers was removed.

Minimum requirement of volunteer service hours was reduced.

Text was added to clarify that sponsors may still provide the annual 

physical, though it is no longer required by CNCS.
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Chapter 11: Records and 

Recordkeeping

References to the physical exam requirement were removed. 

Clarification surrounding physical examination documentation 

retention was added. 

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 C Physical exam requirement was removed (C.1, C.5, C.7, C.9 and 

C.12).

Criteria for determining income eligibility was updated (C.6).

Minimum requirement of volunteer service hours was reduced (C.8).

Annual Project Assessment was removed (C.9).

Appendix D Minimum requirement of volunteer service hours was reduced (D.2).

B. All Other Changes

Change 

Number

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Number

Change 

1 Chapter 2.2.1 (pg. 14), 

Chapter 6.3.3 (pg. 41), 

and Chapter 8.1.2 (pg. 

53)

Non-discrimination language was updated to align with CNCS’ nondiscrimination policy

2 Chapter 10: Grants 

Management (pg. 92)

Text has been added to specify the current Simplified Acquisition 

Threshold amount and its role in budget amendments that require 

prior approval from CNCS. 

3 Chapter 11: Reports 

and Recordkeeping (pg. 

103)

Volunteer Timesheet and Salary and Wage documentation guidance 

has been updated to reflect new Uniform Guidance.

4 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. 

5 Appendix A.5- Quick 

Reference Guide for 

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

been removed.
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Senior Corps Reports 

and Due Dates

6 Appendix A.11-

Evidence- Based 

Programs and 

Registries

Examples have been updated to reflect new Performance Measures.

7 Appendix A.13 Sample 

Data Sharing 

Agreement

Examples have been updated to reflect new Performance Measures.

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.

2 This change is not 

related to a specific 

chapter

All references to an “annual” physical exam were removed.

3 Chapter 1- Introduction 

and Overview (pg. 10)

Litmos Technical Support contact information was added. 

4 Chapter 8- FGP 

Volunteers (pg. 57)

The income eligibility examples, were updated with 2019 poverty 

guidelines. 

5 Chapter 8- FGP 

Volunteers (pg. 67)

References to the Senior Companion Program were removed. 

6 Chapter 9- FGP 

Volunteer Cost 

Reimbursements (pg. 72 

& 84)

Certain sections on physical exams were removed to eliminate 

redundancies.

7 Chapter 10- Grants 

Management (pg. 86)

Text has been added to clarify non-federal share. 

8 Chapter 10- Grants 

Management (pg. 87)

Text that required physical exams to be budgeted annually, was 

removed.

9 Chapter 10- Grants 

Management (pg. 92)

Text has been added to specify the current Simplified Acquisition 

Threshold amount. 

10 Chapter 11-

Recordkeeping (pg. 102) 

Text has been added to clarify record retention of physical exam 

documentation. 
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11 Appendix C.6 In line with the final rule, SSDI was removed from the list of income 

sources. 

12 Appendix C.12 Sample Physical Exam was updated to reflect a cost reimbursement 

rather than an eligibility form.

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1. Chapter 1: Introduction 

and Overview (pg. 4)

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

section. 

2. Chapter 2: Project 

Operations (pg. 14)

The definitions of vulnerable populations and proprietary 

healthcare organizations were added to section 2.2 Sponsor 

Responsibilities. 

3. Chapter 2: Project 

Operations (pg. 15)

Specificity on required cost reimbursements was added. 

4. Chapter 6: Volunteer 

Stations (pg. 36)

The definition of proprietary health care organizations including 

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

requirements was added.

5. Chapter 8: FGP 

Volunteers (pg. 51)

Additional guidance on Non-Stipended Foster Grandparents was 

added, including information on conditions, eligibility, and 

reimbursements. 

6. Chapter 8: FGP 

Volunteers (pg. 68)

Text clarifying that sponsors may choose to abide by either hourly 

or annual service hour minimums was added. 

7. Chapter 9: FGP Cost 

Reimbursements (pg. 

73)

Text was added to clarify cost reimbursements for Non-Stipended 

volunteers. 

8. Chapter 10: Grants 

Management (pg. 82)

Text was added to clarify cost allowability with respect to 

association and other board membership. 

9. Chapter 10: Grants 

Management (pg. 83)

Guidance on establishing an Indirect Cost Rate and definitions of 

Direct and Indirect Costs were updated. 

10. Appendix C.13: 

Guidance on Social 

Security Disability

With Final Rule changes, an appendix on Social Security Disability 

has been added

11. This change is not 

related to a specific 

chapter.

Broken hyperlinks were fixed throughout.
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12. This change is not 

related to a specific 

chapter.

References to the Social Innovation Fund were removed.

13. This change is not 

related to a specific 

chapter.

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

Officer’.

14. This change is not 

related to a specific 

chapter.

Hyperlinks to and citations for regulations were added throughout 

the handbook. 

Edits made in Version 2019.4 (October 2019) 

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Number

Chapter and Page 

Number

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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 : FGP 

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. 
FGP- Previous Change Logs from 2017-2022 

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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. 

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. 

3 This change is not 

related to a specific 

chapter.

On April 1, 2020 the stipend increase went in to effect, making the 

stipend for Senior Companion volunteers $3.00/hour. References to 

the former stipend amount were updated to reflect this increase. 

4 This change is not 

related to a specific 

chapter.

The cost per VSY threshold in National Performance Measure 

Outcomes increased from $6,000/VSY to $6,500/VSY. References to 

the former stipend were updated to reflect this increase. 
FGP- Previous Change Logs from 2017-2022 

Version 2023.1 Pg. 19 of 24

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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: FGP 

Volunteers (pg. 46)

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

“Criteria for Volunteer 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 

Number

Chapter and Page 

Number

Change

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.

• Updated CNCS to AmeriCorps. 

• Foster Grandparent Program to AmeriCorps Seniors 

Foster Grandparent Program (AmeriCorps Seniors FGP) 

• Updated Foster Grandparents and FGP volunteer to 

AmeriCorps Seniors volunteer.

• Updated Twitter handles for both AmeriCorps and 

AmeriCorps Seniors (pg. 56)

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.
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4 Chapter 1: 

Introduction and 

Overview (pg. 2)

Provided information on AmeriCorps’ Transition and 

Sustainability Plan.

5 Chapter: 1: 

Introduction and 

Overview (pg. 5)

Updated name of Office of External Affairs to Office of Strategic 

Engagement and Governmental Affairs

6 Chapter: 1: 

Introduction and 

Overview (pg. 12)

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. 13)

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. 38)

Added newly award grantee requirement to have Station 

Roster completed with PPR Lite. 

9 Chapter 8: 

Volunteers in 

AmeriCorps Seniors 

SCP (pg. 56)

Added information on Facebook as a resource for recruitment. 

10 Chapter 10: Role of 

the AmeriCorps 

Office of Grant 

Administration (pg. 

86)

Updated transition of FFMC to OGA and Grant Officer duties to 

Portfolio Manager. 

11 Chapter 14 

Description and List 

of Appendices (pg. 

122) 

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 

convenience of grantees, and AmeriCorps Seniors does not 

endorse these or any other vendors.
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Edits made in Version 2020.1 (January 2021)

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1 This change is not 

related to a specific 

chapter.

• Updated links throughout the document

2 Chapter 7: 

AmeriCorps Seniors 

Volunteers 

Assignments (pg. 

47) 

• Update language in teleservice and link to AmeriCorps 

Seniors resources

Edits made in (April 2021) Version 2020.2

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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 8)

• 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 31)

• 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 

Volunteers 

Assignments (pg. 

47) 

• Update language in teleservice to state approval from 

your portfolio manager

6 Chapter 8: 

Volunteers in 

AmeriCorps Seniors 

SCP (PG 60)

• AmeriCorps has published a new National Service Criminal 

History Check (NSCHC) regulation that will be effective 

May 1, 2021. Updates and additional resources provided

• Effective May 1, all three checks must be conducted, 

reviewed, and an eligibility determination made by the 

grant recipient or subrecipient before a person begins to 

work or serve on an NSCHC-required grant.
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7 Chapter 11.3 Project 

Compliance 

Monitoring (PG 108)

• Office of Monitoring provides additional information on 

Monitoring Activities Types and Monitoring Results and 

Corrective Actions plans

Edits made in (July2021) Version 2021.3

Change 

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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.1: 

Guidance on 

Recognition Costs

• Removed link to AmeriCorps Seniors Guidance on Leave as 

a Form of Volunteer Recognition.

3 Appendix A • Added Appendix A. 19 Respite Survey

• Added Appendix A. 20 Independent Living Survey

4 Appendix C.14 • 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 83)

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

applicable.

3 Chapter 10: Budget 

Management (PG 85-

86)

• Updated match waiver guidance to include documentation 

requirements and method for processing.

4 Chapter 11: Project 

Compliance 

Monitoring (PG 109-

110)

• 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 D. 3 AmeriCorps 

Seniors and the AmeriCorps Senior Companion Program in 

Times of Disaster to Appendix A. 21 Disaster and Emergency 

Response. 
FGP- Previous Change Logs from 2017-2022 

Version 2023.1 Pg. 23 of 24

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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 D.3 • Shifted changes report from 2017 to 2021into FGP 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 

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 4 Community 

Participation (PG 34)

• Add link to Appendix A. 23 Understanding the Roles and 

Responsibilities of Advisory Councils

3. Appendix A. 23 • Added Understanding the Roles and Responsibilities of 

Advisory Councils 

Edits made in (July 2022) Version 2022.3

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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 1 (PG 7) • 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 9-10) • 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.

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 83- 84) • Updated link to 45 CFR 2552.93(b) and 45 CFR 2552.46(f)
FGP- Previous Change Logs from 2017-2022 

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7. Chapter 10 (PG 95-96) • 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 124) • 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

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1. Chapter 2 

(pg. 17)

• Added a link to Appendix A.8 Fundraising FAQs to section 

2.2.2

2. Chapter 3 

(pg. 25–26)

• Added descriptions of anticipated unduplicated/VSYs and 

anticipated volunteers to the list of elements of a work 

plan

• Clarified how to count unduplicated volunteers/VSYs and 

total volunteers for work plans in the box titled “Targets”

3. 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