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AmeriCorps VISTA

PROJECT APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS

OMB Control #: 3045-0038

Expiration Date: 5/31/20XX
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IMPORTANT NOTICE

These application instructions conform to the Corporation for 

National and Community Service’s (CNCS) online grant 

application system, eGrants. The eGrants system is designed to 

serve CNCS’s applicants and grantees. All CNCS funding 

announcements are posted on our web site www.cns.gov and at 

www.grants.gov. 

Public Burden Statement: The Paperwork Reduction Act of 

1995 requires CNCS to inform all potential persons who are to 

respond to this collection of information that such persons are not 

required to respond unless it displays a currently valid OMB 

control number. (See 5 CFR 1320.5 (b)(2)(i)). 

Time Burden: The time required to complete this collection of 

information is estimated to average 8 hours per applicant, 

including the time to review instructions; search existing data 

resources; gather the data needed; and complete and review the 

information collection before submitting. 

Use of Information: The information collected constitutes an 

application to CNCS for resources. CNCS evaluates the 

application and makes award decisions. 

Effects of Non-Disclosure: Providing this information is 

voluntary; however, failure to provide the information would not 

allow CNCS to assess the applicant’s request for resources. 

Therefore it would not be possible to consider awarding resources

to the applicant. 

Privacy Act: Information provided for this collection may be shared 

with federal, state, and local agencies for law enforcement 

purposes.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Important Notice ......................................................................................................................2

About AmeriCorps VISTA ..........................................................................................................4

Application Process........................................................................................................................4

Submitting Your Application in eGrants ....................................................................................6

I. Applicant Info ..............................................................................................................6

II. Application Info...........................................................................................................6

III. Narratives.....................................................................................................................7

IV. Project Plan ................................................................................................................11

V. Documents .................................................................................................................13

VI. Budget........................................................................................................................13

 VII. Review, Authorize, and Submit .................................................................................14

Application Instructions: Renewal/Continuation Requests....................................................16

Additional Information: Paper copy forms..............................................................................18
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About AmeriCorps VISTA

AmeriCorps VISTA is the national service program designed specifically to fight poverty.

VISTA supports efforts to alleviate poverty by encouraging individuals from all walks of life to 

engage in a year of full-time service with a sponsoring organization to create or expand programs 

designed to bring individuals and communities out of poverty.

Rather than providing cash grants, the VISTA program places individual VISTAs with 

sponsoring organizations. Resources are provided to sponsors on an annual basis. In very

limited circumstances, small grants may be available at the discretion of the CNCS State Office. 

 

VISTA provides a small living allowance and certain benefits for members. Sponsoring 

organizations absorb most of the costs related to project supervision and logistical support. 

Investment by the sponsoring organization and the community is fundamental to the VISTA 

program, as the VISTA resource is intended to be short-term. 

Application Process

Organizations interested in becoming a VISTA sponsor should contact the CNCS State Office in 

their state and visit www.americorps.gov/vista. CNCS's State Offices are staffed by federal 

employees. They conduct public outreach and program support and are directly responsible for 

developing and overseeing all VISTA projects within their state. The CNCS State Office is 

available to provide technical assistance. A directory of CNCS State Offices is available at

http://www.americorps.gov/about/contact/stateoffices.asp. 

To apply for VISTA resources, organizations complete a two-step process:

Step 1 – AmeriCorps VISTA Concept Paper 

 Organizations submit an AmeriCorps VISTA Concept Paper to CNCS. The Concept 

Paper is a preliminary screening tool that CNCS uses to evaluate whether the 

organization would be an appropriate sponsor. 

Step 2 - AmeriCorps VISTA Project Application

 If the Concept Paper is approved, the organization submits an AmeriCorps VISTA 

Project Application. The Project Application is based on the approved Concept Paper. 

CNCS provides Project Application materials following approval of a Concept Paper. 

VISTA Concept Papers and Project Applications are submitted using eGrants, CNCS’s 

integrated, secure, web-based system for applications. Organizations must have an eGrants 

account to submit the Concept Paper and Project Application in eGrants. To create an account 

and access the eGrants system, visit http://www.nationalservice.gov/egrants/index.asp.

 

Organizations that cannot submit using eGrants may submit in paper copy. If you are submitting 

your Concept Paper in paper copy, you will find all the forms that you need in the Additional 

Information section of these instructions. 
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Application Instructions

Please use the following AmeriCorps VISTA Project Application instructions if you are a new or

renewing (continuing) applicant applying for VISTA resources. Only organizations with a 

CNCS-approved Concept Paper should complete these instructions. 

In addition to consulting the CNCS State Office, as directed in these instructions, you may also 

consult the CNCS web site for resources targeted to applicants.

Selection Process and Criteria

The following criteria will be used by CNCS staff in the selection of AmeriCorps VISTA sponsors and in 

the approval of both new and renewal VISTA projects. Your proposal must include all of the elements 

listed below. 

Criteria for Sponsorship

The organization must:

Be a public sector organization or a private organization designated as non-profit by the IRS.

Have resources available for VISTAs to perform their tasks; ie, space, consumable supplies, telephone, on-thejob transportation reimbursement; and be able to provide emergency cash advances when needed.

Have the capacity and commitment to recruit, orient, train, supervise and otherwise support recruited Members 

in appropriate capacity-building roles.

Have an understanding of the concept of, and be committed to, the mission of VISTA.

Be experienced in the issues related to the beneficiaries of service and those being addressed by the proposed 

project.

Have the capacity to involve the beneficiary community in order to achieve project self-sufficiency.

Sign a Memorandum of Agreement that outlines the legal responsibilities of both parties.

Approval Considerations

The project application must:

Address the needs of low-income communities and otherwise comply with the provisions of the Domestic 

Volunteer Services Act Of 1973, (DVSA) as amended (42 U.S.C. 4951 et seq.) applicable to VISTA and all 

applicable published regulations, guidelines and CNCS policies.

Lead to building organizational and/or community capacity to continue the efforts of the antipoverty project once 

VISTA resources are withdrawn.

Describe in measurable terms the anticipated self-sufficiency results at the conclusion of the project, including 

results to the sustainability of the project activities.

Clearly state how VISTAs will be trained, supervised, and supported to ensure the achievement of program goals 

and objectives.

Be internally consistent; The problem statement which demonstrates need, the project plan, the assignment, and 

all other components must be related logically to each other.

Ensure that VISTA and community resources are sufficient to achieve project goals.

Involve beneficiaries in project development and implementation throughout the life of the project as an advisory 

group

Have the management and technical capability to implement the project successfully.

Have an appropriate number of requested members for project goals; the skills and qualifications described in 

the application must be appropriate for the assignment(s).

Ensures resources are available for VISTAs to perform tasks; i.e., space, consumable supplies,

telephone, computer/internet access, in-service transportation reimbursement; and be able to provide

emergency cash advances when needed. 

Requested the appropriate level of resources to achieve proposed goals and activities.
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Has capacity and commitment to recruit, orient, train, supervise and otherwise support recruited

Members in appropriate capacity-building roles.

Has capacity to involve the beneficiary community in order to achieve project self-sufficiency.

Submitting Your Application in eGrants

The following instructions are for organizations submitting new applications. For organizations 

that are submitting a continuation (renewal) application, see Application Instructions: 

Renewal/Continuation instructions on page 16.

Your application consists of the following components. Please make sure to complete each one.

I. Applicant Info

II. Application Info

III. Narratives

IV. Project Plan

V. Documents

VI. Budget 

VIII. Review, Authorize and Submit

Login to eGrants. Once you are in eGrants, before starting Section I, you will need to:

 Select “View All Applications.” A screen will appear that lists all the applications 

that are in “Grantee Initial Entry” status that are associated with your account.

 Your application, which was created when your Concept Paper was approved, will be 

listed as “VISTA State” or “VISTA Headquarters” under the Programs column. 

 Write down the Application ID for later reference.

 Select “View/edit” next to your listing.

I. Applicant Info

In eGrants, complete the Applicant Info Section. Some information is already in the system 

based on your Concept Paper. Please take the time to reflect your program activities accurately 

in this section. 

 Notice your name listed in the Applicant/User field indicating that you are the one 

who is currently logged in to eGrants. The Authorized Representative field lists the 

name of the staff person who authorized and certified the Concept Paper.

 In the Project Info Section, information about the project and project director will 

appear based on information from the Concept Paper. Select existing information or 

enter new. In order to view or edit details, click view/edit and update the information 

in the fields that appear.

 Ensure that your organization’s EIN and DUNS numbers are listed correctly.

II. Application Info
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Information entered in the Applicant Info, Application Info, and Budget sections will populate 

the SF 424 Facesheet. If you are submitting your application in paper copy, you will find all the 

forms that you need in the Additional Information section at the end of the Application 

instructions on page 18. If you have any questions about how to respond to questions or the 

instructions are unclear, please contact your CNCS State Office.

In eGrants, in the Application Info Section:

 Areas affected by your project are populated based on the Concept Paper. You may

edit this information if needed.

 Enter proposed project start and end dates. 

 Indicate whether your application is subject to State Executive Order 12372. Indicate

if you are delinquent on any federal debt.

 Select a Program Type by selecting from the Program Type dropdown menu. Consult 

your CNCS State Office if you are uncertain what to select.

 Check the box next to Cost Share as appropriate. 

 Once you choose and save the program type and cost share indicator, the Budget 

sections 1 & 2 are created and added to the application.

III. Narratives

The narrative section of the Application includes nine items. Each item has questions associated 

with it that you must answer. 

You addressed several of the Narrative items when you completed the Concept Paper. You can 

review and update those items as needed. Other Narrative items are new and must be completed

for the first time. The following table lists which items were addressed in the Concept Paper.

Narrative Item In Concept Paper

Need Yes

Strengthening Communities Yes

Organizational Capacity Yes

Project Management No

Intermediary Justification Yes

VISTA Assignment No

Recruitment and Development No

Other No

Executive Summary No

Summary of Accomplishments No
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Be sure to:

 Type in the fields, single-spaced.

 Type both the question and answer. Use the same headings and numbering provided below.

 Include activities for the entire project period for which you are requesting resources.

 Enter information in each of the narrative fields in eGrants. To enter information into the field, click 

view/edit narrative next to the corresponding narrative item and type into the fields that appear.

 You may wish to first answer questions in a word processing document and then later paste them into 

the eGrants fields. This provides you with an offline, backup record. Avoid using special formatting 

or tables because eGrants does not accommodate them.

Need

NOTE: The responses you submitted in the Concept Paper will copy over to the Application. 

Based on feedback from your CNCS State Office, you may wish to elaborate further.

In this section describe the unmet poverty related community need(s) you propose to address 

using AmeriCorps VISTA resources. Ensure there is a clear connection between the stated 

poverty-related need, the local beneficiary community, the planned intervention activities, the 

activities of the VISTA members, and the final planned outcomes.

Your narrative must include the following:

 Data and statistics that are current, objective, and local, and that substantiate the need(s) 

in the geographic you plan to serve. Also cite the source of the data. 

 A description of why are the needs not being met now.

 How VISTAs would be used to meet those needs, and how many VISTAs are you 

requesting. 

 A complete description of the specific low-income population your project intends to 

serve

 An explanation of how your proposed project relates to the current AmeriCorps VISTA 

programming priorities from the current fiscal year’s AmeriCorps VISTA Program 

Guidance. If it does not, provide a justification as to why not.

Strengthening Communities

In this section, describe how your VISTA project will complement or expand upon current 

efforts in the community to address the need(s) described previously. Your response should 

cover the following: 

 A description of how the project will be designed to build long-term sustainability to 

ensure it has impact once VISTA resources end, including any evidence-based 

approaches and their origin(s).

 Discuss how this approach will change over time as the VISTA(s) implement the project 

and build capacity. 

 How will your project ultimately strengthen the community and bring individuals out of 

poverty?

Organizational Capacity 
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Detail your organization’s capacity to manage a federal national service program, including 

information based on the following questions:

 What is your organization’s experience operating anti-poverty programming in the 

identified area(s) of activity? Provide examples of past work in this area. 

 What community partners will be engaged with the project and what are their roles? 

 If your organization currently sponsors or has previously sponsored AmeriCorps 

members (including VISTAs), please include a brief description of their assigned 

activities. 

 Describe how you will manage the project, and recruit and supervise the VISTA 

member(s). 

How will other staff or volunteers be involved in the project? What resources -- including office

and desk space, access to computer and phone, and other supplies -- will you provide to the 

VISTA member(s)?

Project Management

In addition to the information provided in the Concept Paper, describe your plan for providing 

daily supervision to the VISTA members assigned to the project. Include the following:

 Name of the supervisor(s) indicating part or full time responsibility; 

 Strategies you will employ to ensure members are prepared for their assignments and the 

ongoing support you will provide; 

 Plans for monitoring member(s)’ progress in meeting the assignments in their VISTA 

Assignment Description (VAD) relative to the project plan.

If sites other than your organization will host/supervise VISTA members, please describe the 

nature of your organization’s relationship with them. Also provide your plan for coordinating 

supervision of those members assigned to other organizations (e.g., who at the site will be 

charged with supervision, etc.) 

VISTA requires that members of the low income community comprise at least 51% of your 

board of directors’ or an Advisory Council/group to provide guidance to overall project planning 

and implementation. Describe how you will ensure that the low income community has input 

into the project plan, execution of the project and ongoing support. If your board of directors 

meets this requirement, please indicate that in your plan. If it does not, please describe your 

plans for creating and utilizing an Advisory Council to meet the requirement.

Please describe your plans for evaluating progress towards achieving your project’s projected 

outputs and outcomes. Include detail regarding measurement tools to be used (e.g., surveys, 

databases, etc.), data tracking, collection, aggregation and the methods you will use to coordinate 

with any sub-sites in evaluating performance.

If appropriate, describe how you will collaborate with other national service programs (RSVP, 

Senior Companions, Foster Grandparents, or AmeriCorps State/National) to support your 

proposed project. (Note that VISTA members may not manage other CNCS supported grants or 

participants). You can contact your state office for a listing, if any, of other national service 

programs in your proposed service area.
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VISTA Assignment

Provide a summary of the key objectives and activities the VISTA(s) and Leader(s) will perform 

to implement the proposed project. Please note that VISTA members and leaders serve for an 

entire year and the activities should be sufficient to enable the member to fulfill their one year 

full-time commitment. These tasks and activities should logically align with the project goals 

you propose in the Performance Measures and the Community Needs sections. 

Please note the VISTA Assignment information will be used by approved projects as the basis 

for the VISTA Assignment Description to be created during the recruitment process.

Recruitment and Development

Describe your organization’s methods of recruiting qualified candidates. 

What kinds of skills should a VISTA bring to the position(s) in order to have a successful year?

Federal law requires that VISTA sponsoring organizations make reasonable accommodations to 

meet the needs of qualified persons with disabilities wishing to serve as VISTAs. Describe how 

your organization would provide reasonable accommodations to VISTAs with disabilities. 

Describe the service related transportation needs of the position. Please note service related 

transportation is travel outside of the member’s daily commute. Is it necessary for the candidate 

to have a privately owned vehicle or is the position accessible via public transit or use of agency

vehicle? How far might the VISTA travel on a monthly basis for service related commitments? 

What is your organizations’ reimbursement process for service related travel?

Does your organization have the capacity to provide additional incentives, such as housing 

assistance? If so, provide detailed information in order to determine if the incentives are 

allowable based on VISTA regulations. 

Successful VISTA sponsors are expected to provide initial orientation and ongoing training. 

Describe plans for on-site orientation to your organization and the community within the first 

month of service. Describe training opportunities, technical assistance and conferences that 

would be available to members throughout their service. If trainings, conferences, etc. would 

take place out of the state, the Corporation State Office must be notified in advance in order for 

review and approval of the training/travel plans and provided.

Intermediary Justification

If you are proposing a multi-site or intermediary project, respond to the following. (If you are not 

requesting to become an intermediary sponsor, please leave blank.)

 Describe the current, objective and local data/statistics that substantiate the proposed 

need(s) in each geographic area you plan to serve. 

 Provide information about sites and partners, if already identified; if not identified, 

indicate how you will ensure that selected sites will fit within the overall project, 

Performance Measurement goal(s) and address the poverty-related need as proposed. 
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 What is your organization’s history in selecting and managing other nonprofits or eligible 

agencies to receive resources and training from your organization?

 How will you monitor the sites for compliance with AmeriCorps VISTA rules and 

regulations as required in the Memorandum of Agreement? How will you monitor and 

hold intermediary sites accountable for meeting program goals and providing member 

management information as required?

 If the focus area(s) of the sites will not be the same and will not roll-up into a single set of 

performance measures, explain why an intermediary sponsorship is necessary. Present a 

compelling plan to provide assistance or support to build site capacity, both in general 

and as it relates to the various focus area(s).

 If sites will be required to provide funds to your organization for inclusion in the project, 

provide the amount(s) and its intended use.

Other 

If submitting an Amendment for Summer Associates as directed by the Corporation, please 

include the proposed activities, and if applicable, list the placement sites (in the eGrants screen).

Executive Summary

Please provide a single paragraph summary (4-6 sentences) of your proposed VISTA project that 

includes:

1. A description of your organization’s mission.

2. The CNCS Programming Priority Area that your project aligns with. 

3. A description of the proposed project goal(s) including who will benefit from the project.

4. The number of VISTAs and Leaders (if applicable) you are requesting and an overview 

of the major activities they will perform. 

5. The estimated length of time required to complete the project?

You may use the following suggested template as a guide: [Organization Name]’s mission is 

[Mission Statement]. The proposed VISTA project aligns with the [Choose one CNCS Focus 

Area] focus area. The VISTA project will seek to [enter goal(s)], and expects to benefit [enter 

type and estimated number of beneficiaries]. [Enter number of VISTA’s] VISTA members 

will contribute to the goals of the project by performing activities such as [enter activities] over 

the course of [enter expected length of project]. 

Summary of Accomplishments

First time applicants: please leave blank. Current VISTA sponsoring organizations seeking 

project renewal are required to complete this section.

Provide a description of the project’s accomplishments to date. Describe progress made towards 

the performance measures and any goals/tasks provided in the narrative sections.

IV. Performance Measures

In the performance measures module, you will navigate through different screens to: 

 Select a site and its capacity goal(s) and VISTA focus area(s)
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 Create one or more performance measures for each capacity goal

 Provide “anticipated” data for each of the performance measures

 Create Goal 1 performance measures that will map to the capacity building performance 

measures

 Review and validate the information entered

Launch Link

If your CNCS State Office has authorized you to apply for Summer Associates, click in the 

check-box to answer whether you are using Summer Associates for Capacity Building, Direct 

Service or Both. Then click in the appropriate check-box if you will use Summer Associates to 

support the existing application.

Home Page 

 To start the module, click the “Begin” button on the Home Page. 

 As you proceed through the module, the Home Page will summarize your work and 

provide links to edit the parts of the module you have completed. You may also navigate 

sections of the module using the screen feature at the top of each page. 

 Once you have started the module, clicking “Continue Working” will return you to the 

screen you were on when you last closed the module. 

 After you have created at least one aligned performance measure, the Home Page will 

display a chart summarizing your measures. 

Objectives Screen 

 Select the first Priority Focus Area or Other Focus Area.

 Select the Objective that aligns with your proposed project, e.g. financial literacy, 

housing. 

 Select Save to save and select additional Focus Area and Objective sets.

Capacity Building Screen

 Select Site (previously listed on the Site screen) and then select Project Year (1, 2, 3, etc.)

 Select a Capacity Goal from the list. If you select other, enter the goal in the text box and 

then click on the “Add Cap Goal to List” button.

 For CNCS Capacity Goals, a list of the Service Activities will appear. Select as many that 

apply to your project and this specific Capacity Goal. For user-entered Capacity Goals, 

select the Add User Service Activity button to enter your own.

 For CNCS Capacity Building Outputs, a list of Outputs will appear. Select the one that 

applies to your project. For user-entered Outputs, select the Add User Output button to 

enter your own.

 In the Capacity Building Data Collection section, select an Instrument from the dropdown list, and then enter a Description. Add the Target Number and the Unit of Measure.

 If you have additional Capacity Building Outcomes to enter, repeat those steps.

 Enter the Number of Requested VISTAs/Leaders.

 Once you have entered all your Capacity Goals and Performance Measures set, select 

Map Goal 1 PMs to advance to the next screen.
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Goal 1 to Goal 3 Mapping

 In the first section, select the Goal 1 Output from the list or add a user Goal 1 Output.

 Next, select the Goal 1 Outcome from the list or add a user Goal 1 Outcome.

 Finally, select a Program Strategy/Intervention from the list or add a user Program 

Strategy/Intervention.

 OPTIONAL: complete the Goal 1 Data Collection section by selecting the Instrument 

and entering a description. Next select the Target Number and Unit of Measure.

 Repeat to enter additional Goal 1 Performance Measures.

 Once selections have been made, select Add Goal 1 PM to Table. 

Summer Associate Direct Service Screen (only appears if Summer Associates are indicated on 

the Application screen)

 Select Site, VISTA Priority Focus Area or other Focus Area, Objective from the dropdown menus. Enter total number of unduplicated Summer Associates requested.

 Enter the Problem Statement describing the need for Summer Associates.

 In the first section, select the Goal 1 Output from the list or add a user Goal 1 Output.

 Next, select the Goal 1 Outcome from the list or add a user Goal 1 Outcome.

 Finally, select a Program Strategy/Intervention from the list or add a user Program 

Strategy/Intervention.

 MANDATORY: complete the Goal 1 Data Collection section by selecting the Instrument 

and entering a description. Next select the Target Number and Unit of Measure.

 Repeat to enter additional Goal 1 Performance Measures.

 Enter the number of Summer Associates who will specifically work on this Performance 

Measure set.

 Once selections have been made, select Add Summer Associate PM to Table. 

Summary Screen

The summary screen shows all of the information you have entered in the module. 

 To print a summary of all performance measures, click Print PDF for all Performance 

Measures. 

 To print one performance measure, expand the measure and select Print This Measure.

 Select Edit Performance Measure to return to the Performance Measure screen. 

 Select Edit Data Collection to return to the Data Collection screen. 

 Select Validate Performance Measures to validate this module prior to submitting your 

application.

 Once there are Performance Measure sets for each of the Sites listed in the application, 

select Validate Performance Measures to return to the main application.

CNCSCNCS

V. Documents 

In addition to your application submitted in eGrants, you are required to submit certain 

documents to CNCS in paper copy, as part of your application as described below. 

Please submit the following documents to the appropriate State Office.
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 Copy of most recent financial audit if available. 

 List of Advisory Group Members and their written comments about the application (not 

applicable if 51 percent or more of the persons on your board of directors’ members are of 

the low-income community). 

 Copy of Articles of Incorporation (not applicable to public entities).

 List of Board of Directors, or governing body (not applicable if public entity) and their written 

comments about the application (comments not applicable if you created a separate Advisory 

Group that will submit written comments). 

 Organizational chart of the applying body.

 Tax exempt status: either IRS determination or copy of application to IRS for exemption (not 

applicable to public entities).

 Copy of Supervisor’s Resume and Job Description. For multi-site projects, a list of organizations 

where members will be placed, organization addresses, contact persons and contact information,

copy of site supervisor’s resume and job description, and a letter of commitment from the Board 

of Directors of each organization.

 Negotiated Indirect Cost Agreement (if applying for a Program Grant)

 Letters of support for the proposed project from other organizations in your community. If the 

organization is a project partner, the letter should describe the type of support and/or resources 

the partner organization will contribute. 

Contact the CNCS State Office with questions.

After you have submitted the documents, change their status in eGrants from the default “Not 

Sent” to the applicable status (“Sent,” “Not Applicable,” or “Already on File at CNCS”). 

VI. Budget 

All VISTA projects, regardless of type, must complete the budget and include a written narrative 

justification for line items. This includes standard VISTA projects for which no financial 

resources will be provided. 

While there is no specific match requirement, the budget documents the type and level of 

resources the sponsor will provide to support the project.

NOTE: Several line items will be estimates (for example, education award and stipend,) because

they depend on a choice made by each VISTA or Leader.

Three budget worksheets are available, depending on the type of project (Standard, Support, 

Program) for which you are applying. Please contact your CNCS State Office for the appropriate 
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budget guidance for your project. Specific instructions on how to complete the budget will 

accompany each of these forms.

 Part VI.1 Standard VISTA Project Budget

 Part VI.2 Standard VISTA Project Budget with Support Grant

 Part VI.3 VISTA Program Grant Budget

eGrants will create the budget and the budget narrative automatically from the detailed budget 

information you enter. Once you have entered your budget information in eGrants you will be 

asked to validate your budget, and eGrants will check your submission for errors. Do not include 

fractional amounts (cents).

VII. Review, Authorize, and Submit

eGrants requires that you review and verify your entire application before submitting, by

completing the following sections in eGrants:

 Review

 Authorize

 Assurances

 Certifications

 Verify

 Submit

The Review section lists the information entered for the previous sections. You can go back to 

any of these sections to review or change what you have entered, prior to submission. 

You can also view and print the information as a report. The report opens as an Adobe PDF 

Read-only file. You may print the Concept Paper in PDF format or save a copy of it onto your 

computer. 

Because the PDF report is a read-only file, you cannot type in the report. To make changes, you 

must edit in the eGrants system and run the report again for the updated version.

Read the Authorization, Assurances, and Certifications carefully. Complete each section of the 

Assurances and Certifications. If you are submitting a paper copy application, the Assurances 

and Certifications can be found in the Additional Information Section.

The person who authorizes the application must be the applicant’s authorized representative. 

This is the person who has the authority to commit resources at your organization. In order to 

complete this section, the appropriate staff person should logon to eGrants and go to the 

Authorize and Submit section. The Authorized Representative must have his/her own 

eGrants account. To create an account and access the eGrants system, visit 

http://www.nationalservice.gov/egrants/index.asp.
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Be sure to check your entire application to make sure that there are no errors before submitting it. 

eGrants will also generate a list of errors if there are sections that need to be corrected prior to 

submission when you verify.
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Application Instructions: 

RENEWAL / CONTINUATION REQUESTS

The following instructions for submitting a renewal / continuation request apply only to existing 

sponsors with projects that are currently in their first year in operation or more.

When to Submit Your Continuation Request:

Contact your CNCS State Office for specific timeframes. 

How to Submit Your Continuation Request: 

 Submit your continuation request in eGrants. 

 To create your continuation request in eGrants, click Continuation on your eGrants 

home page. You will be shown a list of grants that are eligible to be continued. Select 

the grant you wish to continue. Make sure you select the correct one. The system will 

copy your most recently awarded application as a base to create your continuation 

application. 

 Select the correct NOFA.

 Write down the Application ID for later reference.

 Edit your continuation application as directed in the continuation request instructions 

below. When you have completed your edits, click the SUBMIT button. 

If you have questions about the content of your continuation request, please contact your CNCS

State Office. If you experience problems using eGrants, contact the eGrants Help Desk at 

(888) 677-7849.

What to Include in Your Continuation Request:

I. Applicant Info and Application Info 

Update the Applicant Info and Application Info Sections in eGrants if necessary. Do not change 

the Project Name or enter a new project.

Select a Project Type. Check the cost share box, if appropriate. Consult your CNCS State 

Office if you are uncertain of Program Type or cost share.

II. Narratives

Information will carry over from the previous year. Describe any updates or changes you are 

proposing to your project, as appropriate. 

III. Performance Measures

IV. Documents

Make status changes (“Sent,” “Not Applicable,” or “Already on File at CNCS”) and submit the 

paper copies to CNCS, as appropriate.
18

The following document should be submitted each year. 

 Letters of support for the proposed project from other organizations in your community. If the 

organization is a project partner, the letter should describe the type of support and/or resources 

the partner organization will contribute. 

The other documents listed do not need to be submitted unless there are changes from the 

previous year.

IV. Budget

Provide a budget for the upcoming year. Incorporate any required CNCS increases, such as 

an increase to the member living allowance into your budget. Your budget from the previous 

year’s application is copied into your continuation request so you can make the necessary

adjustments. Consult the Program Guidance, or other documentation provided by CNCS for 

any specific budget guidance.
19

Additional Information: Paper copy forms

If you are submitting your application in paper copy instead of eGrants, you will find the 

required SF424 forms (Facesheet) in the following section. 

Be sure to:

 Type, single-spaced.

 Use the same headings and lettering provided below when completing your application.

 Type both the question and answer.

 Submit to the appropriate CNCS for National and Community Service State Office

GENERAL SUBMISSION INSTRUCTIONS

Application and Submission Requirements:

Complete and return and the application to the CNCS State Office unless otherwise instructed. 

Number the pages of your submission consecutively. Do not submit the instructions as part of 

your application.

 Part I: Facesheet, Assurances and Certifications (Modified Form 424) 

 Part II: Narratives (All Sections) 

 Part III: Performance Measures

 Part IV: Required Attachments

 Part V: Budget – With accompanying budget narrative

Note: Submission of a project application does not assure receipt of AmeriCorps VISTA resources.
20

PART I: FACESHEET INSTRUCTIONS

The facesheet is the standardized SF-424 form required for all federal grant/project applications. This 

form provides us with basic information about your organization and the type of project for which you are 

applying. The following instructions have been provided to assist you in completing this form. 

1. Filled in for your convenience

2. a. Enter the date b. is for CNCS State Office use only

3. a. and b. are for CNCS State Office use only (if applicable)

4. a. and b. are for CNCS State Office use only (if applicable)

5. Enter the following information:

a. The complete name of the organization that will be legally responsible for the project. Not 

the name of the organizational unit within the legally responsible organization. (For example, 

indicate “National University” instead of “Liberal Arts Department.”)

b. Enter the Organizational DUNS (Required. To obtain a DUNS number for your organization 

call: 1-866-705-5711)

c. Your organization’s complete address to include country and the 5 digit ZIP code

d. The name and contact information of the project director or other person to contact on matters 

related to this application.

6. Enter your Employer Identification Number (EIN) as assigned by the Internal Revenue Service

7. Enter the following information:

a. Enter the appropriate letter in the box

b. Consult the following list of characteristics of applicants and enter the corresponding 

numbers (all that apply), each in a separate blank.

1. 2-year college

2. 4-year college

3. Area Agency on Aging

4. Chamber of Commerce/Business 

Association

5. Community Action 

Agency/Community Action Program

6. Community College

7. Community –Based Organization

8. Faith-based organization

9. Governor’s Office

10. Grant-making Entity Operating in Two 

or More States

11. Health Department

12. Hispanic Serving College or University

13. Historically Black College or 

University

14. Law Enforcement Agency

15. Local Affiliate of National 

Organization

16. Local Education Agency

17. Local Government municipal

18. National Non-Profit (Multistate)

19. Other Native American Organization

20. Other State Government

21. School (K-12)

22. Self-Incorporated Senior Corps Project

23. Service/Civic Organization

24. State Commission/Alternative 

Administration Entity

25. State Education Agency

26. Statewide Association

27. Tribal Government Entity

28. Tribal Organization (non-government

29. U.S. Territory

30. Vocational/Technical College

31. Volunteer Management Organization
21

8. Check the appropriate box for the type of application and enter the appropriate letter(s) in the lower boxes

a. Check “New” if you are applying for assistance for the first time or are reapplying for a new 

project/grant cycle

b. Check “Continuation” if you are a grantee applying for second or third year funding within your 3-

year project period (NOTE: For AmeriCorps*VISTA projects, check “New” to apply for a second 

or third year renewal to an existing MA).

c. Check “Revision” if you are a grantee proposing any change in your budget or requesting a no cost 

extension.

9. Filled in for your convenience

10. Filled in for your convenience

11. Enter the following:

a. Enter the title of the project. Existing sponsors should use the same title as in their original or 

previous application

b. Enter the name of the CNCS program initiative, if any, as provided in the instructions corresponding 

to the NOFA for which you are applying; otherwise leave blank. 

12. List all areas affected by the project (e.g., counties and cities where the VISTA will be serving)

13. Refer to Item #8

 If you have checked “New” application enter the proposed Start and End Dates

 If you have checked “Continuation” or “Revision” application, enter the dates of the approved

 project period

 14. Estimated Funding: Enter the amount requested or to be contributed during this budget period on the

 appropriate line, as shown below. The value of in-kind contributions should be included in these amounts, as 

applicable. For revisions (See item 8), if the action will result in a dollar change to an existing award, 

include only the amount of the change. For decreases, enclose the amounts in parenthesis.

a. Federal The total amount of Federal funds being requested in the budget

b. Applicant The total amount of applicant share as entered in the budget

c. Local NA

d. State NA

e. Other NA

f. Program Income NA

g. Total The applicant’s estimate of the total funding amount for the agreement

 15. Indicate if this application is subject to review by the state “Executive Order 12372 Process” by checking the

box. Executive Order 12372, “Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs,” was issued with the desire

to foster the intergovernmental partnership and strengthen federalism by relying on state and local processes 

for the coordination and review of proposed federal financial assistance and direct Federal development.

The Order allows each state to designate and entity to perform this function. A list of these “Single Point of 

Contact” entities can be found at: http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/grants/spoc.html. Contact the Single

Point of Contact to determine whether your application is subject to the state intergovernmental review 

process.

a. If Yes, indicate the date a copy of your application was submitted to the state for review under the 

Executive Order 12372 Process

b. If No, check the appropriate box.

16. Check the appropriate box. This question applies to the applicant organization, not the person who signs as
22

the authorized representative. Categories of debt include delinquent audit allowances, loans and taxes. If 

Yes, attach an explanation.

17. The person who signs this form must be the applicant’s legal representative. A copy of the governing

body’s authorization for this official representative to sign must be on file in the applicant’s office.

Note: Falsification or concealment of a material fact, or submission of false, fictitious or fraudulent statements of 

representations to any department or agency of the United States Government may result in a fine of not more than 

$10,000 or imprisonment for not more than five (5) years, or both. (18 U.S. Code Section 1001)

STANDARD ASSURANCES AND CERTIFICATIONS

Once you have completed your AmeriCorps VISTA application, the Authorized Certifying Official for your 

organization is required to read and sign the Assurances and Certifications pages located on the pages following the 

facesheet.
23

PART I - FACESHEET 

APPLICATION FOR

FEDERAL ASSISTANCE

2. DATE SUBMITTED TO CORPORATION FOR 

NATIONAL AND COMMUNITY SERVICE 

(CNCS)

Applicant Identifier

1. TYPE OF SUBMISSION:

Application

Construction

Non-Construction

Pre-application

Construction

Non-Construction

3. a. DATE RECEIVED BY STATE 3 b. State Application Identifier

4. a DATE RECEIVED BY CNCS 4 b. CNCS Grant Number

5. APPLICANT INFORMATION

5 a. Legal Name: 5.b. Organizational DUNS:

5.c Address: (give street address, city, count, state and zip code) NAME AND CONTACT INFORMATION FOR PROJECT DIRECTOR OR OTHER 

PERSON TO BE CONTACTED ON MATTERS INVOLVING THIS APPLICATION 

(give area code)

NAME:

TELEPHONE NUMBER: ( ) -

FAX NUMBER: ( ) -

INTERNET E-MAIL ADDRESS:

WEBSITE:

6. EMPLOYER IDENTIFICATION NUMBER (EIN):

 -

7. a TYPE OF APPLICANT: (Enter appropriate letter in box:) 

. I. State Controlled

 A. State Institution of Higher

 B. County Learning

 C. Municipal J. Private University

 D. Township K. Indian Tribe

 E. Interstate L. Individual

 F. Intermunicipal M. Profit Organization

 G. Special District N. Other (Specify)

 H. Independent School O. Not for Profit

 District Organization

Other (specify)

7 b. CNCS APPLICANT CHARACTERISTICS

Enter appropriate code in each blank:_____, _____, ______,______,_____

8. TYPE OF APPLICATION:

 New Continuation Revision

If Revision, enter appropriate letter(s) in box(es)

 

A. Augmentation: B: Budget Revision 

C. No Cost Extension to __________(enter date) 

E Other (specify below); 

_________________________________________________

10 CATALOG OF FEDERAL DOMESTIC ASSISTANCE NUMBER:

94 – 013 

TITLE (Name of Program): AmeriCorps VISTA

9. NAME OF FEDERAL AGENCY:

Corporation for National and Community Service

11. a. TITLE OF APPLICANT’S PROJECT:

12. AREAS AFFECTED BY PROJECT (Cities, Counties, States, etc):

11 b. CNCS PROGRAM INITIATIVE (IF ANY):

13. PROPOSED PROJECT START DATE: MM/DD/YYYY END 

DATE: MM/DD/YYYY

14: ESTIMATED FUNDING

a. Federal $

b. Applicant $

c. State $ N/A

d. Local $ N/A

e. Other $ N/A

f. Program Income $ N.A

g. Total $

15. IS APPLICATION SUBJECT TO REVIEW BY STATE EXECUTIVE ORDER 

12372 PROCESS?

a. YES. THIS APPLICATION WAS MADE AVAILABLE TO THE STATE 

EXECUTIVE ORDER 12372 PROCESS FOR REVIEW ON:

DATE:__________________________________________

B. NO.

PROGRAM IS NOT COVERED BY E.O. 12372

OR PROGRAM HAS NET BEEN SELECTED BY STATE FOR 

REVIEW

16. IS THE APPLICANT DELINQUENT ON ANY FEDERAL DEBT?

Yes If “Yes” attach an explanation. No

17. TO THE BEST OF MY KNOWLEDGE AND BELIEF, ALL DATA IN THIS APPLICATION/PREAPPLICATION ARE TRUE AND CORRECT. THE 

DOCUMENT HAS BEEN DULY AUTHORIZED BY THE GOVERNING BODY OF THE APPLICANT AND THE APPLICANT WILL COMPLY WITH THE 

ATTACHED ASSURANCES IF THE ASSISTANCE IS AWARDED.

a. TYPED NAME OF AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVE: b. TITLE: c. TELEPHONE NUMBER:

d. SIGNATURE OF AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVE: DATE SIGNED:

Modified Standard Form 424- (Rev 11/02 to conform to the CNCS eGrants system)

OMB Control # 3045-0038 Expiration Date 5/31/2011
24

ASSURANCES

As the duly authorized representative of the applicant, I certify, to the best of my knowledge and belief, that the applicant:

1. Has the legal authority to apply for federal assistance, and the institutional, 

managerial, and financial capability (including funds sufficient to pay the 

non-federal share of project costs) to ensure proper planning, management, 

and completion of the project described in this application.

2. Will give the awarding agency, the Comptroller General of the United 

States, and if appropriate, the state, through any authorized representative, 

access to and the right to examine all records, books, papers, or documents 

related to the award; and will establish a proper accounting system in 

accordance with generally accepted accounting standards or agency 

directives.

3. Will establish safeguards to prohibit employees from using their position 

for a purpose that constitutes or presents the appearance of personal or 

organizational conflict of interest, or personal gain.

4. Will initiate and complete the work within the applicable time frame after 

receipt of approval of the awarding agency.

5. Will comply with the Intergovernmental Personnel Act of 1970 (42 U.S.C. 

4728-4763) relating to prescribed standards for merit systems for programs 

funded under one of the nineteen statutes or regulations specified in 

Appendix A of OPM’s Standards for a Merit System of Personnel 

Administration (5 CFR 900, Subpart F).

6. Will comply with all federal statutes relating to nondiscrimination. These 

include but are not limited to: Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (P.L. 

88-352) which prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, or 

national origin; (b) Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, as 

amended (20 U.S.C. 1681-1683, and 1685-1686). which prohibits 

discrimination on the basis of sex; (c) Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act 

of 1973, as amended (29 U.S.C. 794), which prohibits discrimination on the 

basis of disability (d) The Age Discrimination Act of 1975, as amended (42 

U.S.C. 6101-6107), which prohibits discrimination on the basis of age; (e) 

The Drug Abuse Office and Treatment Act of 1972 (P.L. 92-255), as 

amended, relating to nondiscrimination on the basis of drug abuse; (f) The 

Comprehensive Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism Prevention, Treatment and 

Rehabilitation Act of 1970 (P.L. 91-616), as amended, relating to 

nondiscrimination on the basis of alcohol abuse or alcoholism; (g) sections 

523 and 527 of the Public Health Service Act of 1912 (42 U.S.C. 290dd-3 

and 290ee-3), as amended, relating to confidentiality of alcohol and drug 

abuse patient records; (h) Title VIII of the Civil Rights Act of 1968 (42 

U.S.C. 3601 et seq.), as amended, relating to nondiscrimination in the sale, 

rental or financing of housing; (i) any other nondiscrimination provisions in 

the National and Community Service Act of 1990, as amended; and (j) the 

requirements of any other nondiscrimination statute(s) which may apply to 

the application.

7. Will comply, or has already complied, with the requirements of Titles II and 

III of the Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition 

Policies Act of 1970 (P.L. 91-646) which provide for fair and equitable 

treatment of persons displaced or whose property is acquired as a result of 

federal or federally assisted programs. These requirements apply to all 

interests in real property acquired for project purposes regardless of federal 

participation in purchases.

8. Will comply with the provisions of the Hatch Act (5 U.S.C. 1501-1508 and 

7324-7328) which limit the political activities of employees whose principal 

employment activities are funded in whole or in part with Federal funds.

9. Will comply, as applicable, with the provisions of the Davis-Bacon Act (40 

U.S.C 276a and 276a-77), the Copeland Act (40 U.S.C 276c and 18 U.S.C. 

874), and the Contract Work Hours and Safety Standards Act (40 U.S.C. 

327-333), regarding labor standards for Federally assisted construction subagreements.

10. Will comply, if applicable, with flood insurance purchase requirements of 

Section 102(a) of the Flood Disaster Protection Act of 1973 (P.L. 93-234) 

which requires the recipients in a special flood hazard area to participate in 

the program and to purchase flood insurance if the total cost of insurable 

construction and acquisition is $10,000 or more.

11. Will comply with environmental standards which may be prescribed 

pursuant to the following: (a) institution of environmental quality control 

measures under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (P.L. 91-

190) and Executive Order (EO) 11514; (b) notification of violating facilities 

pursuant to EO 11738; (c) protection of wetlands pursuant to EO 11990; (d) 

evaluation of flood hazards in floodplains in accordance with EO 11988; (e) 

assurance of project consistency with the approved state management 

program developed under the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972 (16 

U.S.C 1451 et seq.); (f) conformity of federal actions to State (Clean Air) 

Implementation Plans under Section 176(c) of the Clean Air Act of 1955, as 

amended (42 U.S.C. 7401 et seq.); (g) protection of underground sources of 

drinking water under the Safe Drinking Water Act of 1974, as amended 

(P.L. 93-523); and (h) protection of endangered species under the 

Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (P.L. 93-205).

12. Will comply with the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act of 1968 (16 U.S.C 1271 

et seq.) related to protecting components or potential components of the 

national wild and scenic rivers system.

13. Will assist the awarding agency in assuring compliance with Section 106 of 

the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, as amended (16 U.S.C. 

470), EO 11593 (identification and protection of historic properties), and 

the Archaeological and Historic Preservation Act of 1974 (16U.S.C. 469a-l 

et seq.).

14. Will comply with P.L. 93-348 regarding the protection of human subjects 

involved in research, development, and related activities supported by this 

award of assistance. 

15. Will comply with the Laboratory Animal Welfare Act of 1966 (P.L. 89-544, 

as amended, 7 U.S.C. 2131 et seq.) pertaining to the care, handling, and 

treatment of warm blooded animals held for research, teaching, or other 

activities supported by this award of assistance.

16. Will comply with the Lead-Based Paint Poisoning Prevention Act (42 

U.S.C. §§ 4801 et seq.) which prohibits the use of lead based paint in 

construction or rehabilitation of residence structures.

17. Will cause to be performed the required financial and compliance audits in 

accordance with the Single Audit Act of 1984, as amended, and OMB 

Circular A-133, Audits of States, Local Governments, and Non-Profit 

Organizations.

18. Will comply with all applicable requirements of all other Federal laws, 

executive orders, regulations, application guidelines, and policies governing 

this program.

SIGNATURE OF AUTHORIZED CERTIFYING OFFICIAL TITLE

APPLICANT ORGANIZATION DATE SUBMITTED
25

CERTIFICATIONS REGARDING (A) DEBARMENT, SUSPENSION AND OTHER RESPONSIBILITY 

MATTERS; (B) DRUG-FREE WORKPLACE REQUIREMENTS; AND (C) LOBBYING

A. Debarment, Suspension, and Other Responsibility Matters

As required by the regulations implementing Executive Order 12549, Debarment and Suspension, implemented at 34 CFR Part 85, Section 85.510, 

Participants’ responsibilities.

A. As authorized representative of the applicant, I the applicant certify that neither the applicant nor its principals:

∙ Are presently debarred, suspended, proposed for debarment, declared ineligible, or voluntarily excluded from covered transactions by any Federal 

department or agency.

∙ Has, within a three-year period preceding this application, been convicted of, or had a civil judgment entered against them for commission of fraud 

or other criminal offense in connection with obtaining, attempting to obtain, or performing a public (Federal, State or local) transaction or contract 

under a public transaction; violation of federal or state antitrust statutes or commission of embezzlement, theft, forgery, bribery, falsification or 

destruction or records, making false statements, or receiving stolen property.

∙ Is presently indicted for or otherwise criminally or civilly charged by a governmental entity (Federal, State or local) with commission of any of the 

offenses enumerated in paragraph (2) (b) of this certification, and

∙ Has not, within a three-year period preceding this application, had one or more public transactions (federal, state or local) terminated for cause or 

default;

B. Where the applicant is unable to certify to any of the statements in this certification, he or she shall attach an explanation to this application.

B. Drug-Free Workplace

As required by the Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988, and implemented at 34 CFR Part 85, Subpart F. The regulations require certification by grantees, 

prior to award, that they will maintain a drug-free workplace. The certification set out below is a material representation of fact upon which reliance will 

be placed when the agency determines to award the grant. False certification or violation of the certification may be grounds for suspension of payments, 

suspension or termination of grants, or government-wide suspension or debarment (see 34 CFR Part 85, Section 85.615 and 85.620).

The applicant certifies that it has or will continue to:

(a) Publishing a statement notifying employees that the unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensing, possession or use of a controlled substance is 

prohibited in the grantee’s workplace and specifying the actions that will be taken against employees for violation of such prohibition;

(b) Establish an ongoing drug-free awareness program to inform employees about—

(1) the dangers of drug abuse in the workplace, 

(2) the grantee’s policy of maintaining a drug-free workplace.

(3) any available drug counseling, rehabilitation, and employee assistance programs, and 

(4) the penalties that may be imposed upon employees for drug abuse violations occurring in the workplace;

(c) Making it a requirement that each employee to be engaged in the performance of the grant be given a copy of the statement required by paragraph 

(a)

(d) Notifying the employee in the statement required by paragraph (A) that, as a condition of employment under the grant, the employee will:

(1) abide by the terms of the statement, and 

(2) notify the employer, in writing of his or her conviction for a violation conviction for a violation of any criminal drug statute occurring in 

the workplace no later than five days after such conviction

(e) Notifying the agency in writing within ten days after receiving notice under subparagraph (d) (2)) from an employee or otherwise receiving actual 

notice of such conviction;

(f) Taking one of the following actions, within 30 days of receiving notice under subparagraph (d) (2), with respect to any employee who is so 

convicted—

(1) Taking appropriate personnel action against such an employee, up to and including termination...; or 

(2) Requiring such employee to participate satisfactorily in a drug abuse assistance or rehabilitation program approved for such purposes by a 

Federal, State, or local health, law enforcement, or other appropriate agency;

(3) Making a good faith effort to continue to maintain a drug-free workplace through implementation of paragraphs (a), (b), (c), (d), (e) and (f)

C. Certification – Lobbying Activities

(a) No federal appropriated funds have been paid or will be paid, by or on behalf of the undersigned, to any person for influencing or attempting to 

influence an officer or employee of any agency, a member of Congress, an officer of Congress in connection with the making of any federal grant, 

the entering into of any cooperative agreement, and the extension, renewal, amendment or modification of any federal grant, or cooperative 

agreement;

(b) If any funds other than federal appropriated funds have been paid or will be paid to any person for influencing or attempting to influence an officer 

or employee of any agency, a Member of Congress, an officer or employee of Congress, or an employee of a Member of Congress in connection 

with this Federal grant or cooperative agreement, the undersigned shall complete and submit Standard Form-LLL, “Disclosure Form to Report 

Lobbying,” in accordance with its instructions;

(c) The undersigned shall require that the language of this certification be included in the award documents for all tiers (including subawards, 

subgrants, contracts under grants and cooperative agreements) and that all subrecipients shall certify and disclose accordingly.

By signing this Certification page, you certify that you agree to perform all actions and support all intentions in the Certification sections of this 

application. 

__________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________

Legal Applicant Printed Name and Title of Authorized Representative

 

 Signature of Authorized Representative ____________________________________________________ Date ______________
26

PART II. NARRATIVES

The purpose of the project narrative is for you to provide a concise and compelling justification for 

awarding the requested AmeriCorps VISTA members and/or Leaders. 

The narrative section of the Application includes nine items. Each item has questions associated with it that you 

must answer. The Narrative items and associated questions can be found on pages 7-11 

Be sure to:

 Submit a completed Face Sheet (SF424 – Application for Federal Assistance) with your project narrative.

 Type, single-spaced.

 Type both the question and answer.

 Try to keep your response for each lettered section heading to no more than one page (250-400 words). 

PART III. PROJECT PLAN

Overview

The Project plan is composed of one or more Action Plans. Each Action Plan describes the specific community 

need you plan to address, the goal and results you expect to achieve, and how you will assess your progress in 

achieving them. Complete the project plan template provided, being sure identify which community need(s)

(identified in Narratives, Need) will be addressed by them. Make copies of the template as needed. (Example 

of a completed Project Plan is attached).

You may create additional Action Plans as appropriate for your project design.

Example:

An applicant proposes a project that has two different programming areas: 

1. Starting a child care program for welfare to work recipients; and

2. Enhancing a job training and placement program for welfare to work recipients.

 The applicant may wish to create one Action Plan for each issue. 

The Action Plan may contain as many Performance Milestones as you want. While the community need, and 

the goal statement should cover a multi-year period (the estimated length of time required to complete the 

proposed project), the performance milestones should only cover one year. In the action plan, clearly 

demonstrate:

 A realistic effort to help bring individuals and families out of poverty permanently; not simply to make 

poverty more tolerable;

 Proposed project results that are measurable and convey the actual impact the project has on the 

individuals, families, and communities being served.

The Community Need statement: Describe the specific need that will be addressed by the project component 

included in this Action Plan. The need should be measurable and include a reliable source to establish the 

compelling nature of the need.

Goal Statement: Describe the impact your project will have in addressing the community need identified 

above. This goal statement should cover the three-year project period.

Performance Milestone (Expected Results)

 Describe what you hope to achieve in a particular activity area over the course of a 12-month period. 

 The milestone should be directly related to the goal statement. 

 Include quantity or number (e.g. Complete 7 presentations at...)
27

 One milestone per text box. Select “Add milestone” to include any additional milestones

Planned Period of Accomplishment: Indicate the project year and month that you expect this PM will be 

achieved. 

Indicator / Evidence of progress: What are you tracking or measuring to determine if this result has been 

achieved?

Target: Enter the same number (amount) or percentage that is described in the Performance Milestone above. 

If you enter a percentage target here, make sure you include the number (amount) in the Performance Milestone 

[e.g. 75 percent of volunteers (55 of 73) recruited ...]

How Measured: Method by which accomplishment of target milestone will be determined.

Description of data collection: Description of data collection: process or measurement process (who collects 

it from whom and when/how often) 

Instructions

Column A

1. In the first row of column A, describe the community need to be addressed in relation to the problem(s) 

identified in your project narrative (Need). Examples are provided for your reference.

2. In the second section of column A, list the proposed project goal that you expect the AmeriCorps VISTAs to

achieve. In the Project Narrative, VISTA Assignment Description, you will include more specific tasks and 

activities for each member position you develop based upon these overall goals and activities.

3. In the third section of column A, identify the expected results (Performance Milestones), leading to the

achievement of the proposed goal. For each performance milestone, identify the indicators, targets, and how 

you will measure this result, and how you will collect the data. Report any data you have for this measure 

from prior years.

Column B

In column B, indicate the periods of time during which the member will work on and achieve the stated results. 

Performance milestones should be measured at least annually. 

Column C

In column C, AmeriCorps VISTA projects report the progress on their performance milestones. Leave this blank 

until time for reporting.
28

Column A

AmeriCorps VISTA Project Plan

Column B

Date(s)

Column C

Community Need: Describe the community need to be addressed in relation to the 

problem(s) identified in your project narrative (Need).

Example: According to the Capital Area Workforce Center’s Annual Survey, currently 

only ten percent of unemployed clients in the region gain employment with the assistance 

of the Center

3 Years

Goal Statement: Describe the impact your project will have in addressing the community 

need identified above. This goal statement should cover the three-year project period.

Example Goal 1:. To help more clients secure jobs, AmeriCorps VISTA members will 

implement a job training and readiness program to serve clients from the region. Two 

hundred clients will receive training in year one; three hundred clients in year two; and 

five hundred clients in year three.

3 Years

Performance Milestone

Participants will complete job training and readiness program.

Indicator: Percentage of participants who complete the training program (per year)

Target: 75% (55 of 73) of people complete training program each year.

How Measured: attendance roster.

Description of Data Collection: VISTA member will collect attendance roster, which 

will be entered into a participant database maintained at the project site.

January 2013
29

Performance Milestone

Clients who complete job training and readiness program (program graduates) 

demonstrate improved job-readiness skills.

Indicator: Percentage of program graduates who improve in public speaking, 

interviewing, and resume writing.

Target: Year One. Seventy-five percent of program graduates ( 42 of 55) improve in 

public speaking, interviewing and resume writing.

How Measured: Jobs Readiness Skills.

Description of Data Collection: Jobs Readiness Skills Survey (pre-test/post-test), 

administered to training graduates by VISTA members.

March 2013

Performance Milestone

The employment rate will be higher for program graduates than for clients who do not 

participate in the program.

Indicator: Percentages of program graduates and non-participants who obtain 

employment

Target: The employment rate will be at least ten percent higher for program 

graduates compared to non-participants. 

How Measured: Employment data.

Description of Data Collection: Employment data, collected by the Workforce 

Center.

July 2013
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ATTACHMENTS

Please submit the following attachments with your project narrative to the appropriate program office within the 

Corporation for National and Community Service.

 Copy of most recent financial audit if available. 

 List of Advisory Group Members and their written comments about the application (not applicable if 51 

percent or more of the persons on your board of directors’ members are of the low-income community). 

 Copy of Articles of Incorporation (not applicable to public entities).

 List of Board of Directors, or governing body (not applicable if public entity) and their written comments 

about the application (comments not applicable if you created a separate Advisory Group that will submit 

written comments). 

 Organizational chart of the applying body.

 Tax exempt status: either IRS determination or copy of application to IRS for exemption (not applicable to 

public entities).

 Copy of Supervisor’s Resume and Job Description. For multi-site projects, a list of organizations where 

members will be placed, organization addresses, contact persons and contact information, copy of site 

supervisor’s resume and job description, and a letter of commitment from the Board of Directors of each 

organization.

 Negotiated Indirect Cost Agreement (if applicable) 

 Letters of support for the proposed project from other organizations in your community. If the organization 

is a project partner, the letter should describe the type of support and/or resources the partner organization 

will contribute. 
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PART V. BUDGET 

GENERAL SUBMISSION INSTRUCTIONS

All VISTA projects must complete the SF 424A budget page and attach a written narrative justification for each 

line item. 

While there is no specific match requirement, the budget documents the type and level of resources a sponsor will 

provide to support the project.

NOTE: Several line items are estimates (for example, education award and stipend) because they depend on a 

choice made by each VISTA or Leader.

Three budget worksheets are available, depending on the type of project for which you are applying. Please contact 

your CNCS State Office for the appropriate budget guidance for your project. Specific instructions on how to 

complete the budget will accompany each of these forms.

 Part VI.1 Standard VISTA Project Budget

 Part VI.2 Standard VISTA Project Budget with Support Grant

 Part VI.3 VISTA Program Grant Budget