Drew Dixon
Rural communities can now apply for funding from the Volunteer Florida Foundation to support local initiatives.
The Volunteer Florida Foundation has launched its Rural Community Assets Fund (RCAF) grant program for the 2025-2026 fiscal year. The funds are designed to support community-based groups and help recruit, equip, and mobilize volunteers who pitch in for projects in those rural communities.
The Foundation is an organization that raises funds for Volunteer Florida. That’s the state agency for volunteer service both in Florida and nationally. The Foundation also promotes volunteerism and manages the Florida Disaster Fund, which helps communities recover in the aftermath of disasters.
The Volunteer Florida Foundation now has $150,000 available for distribution in the current Rural Communities Grant Program. That funding also supports training initiatives for participating organizations. Applicants can request between $10,000 and $15,000 per award in the RCAF. There is a stipulation that the organization applying for funding must provide a 100% match in cash, in-kind, or a combination of both in value to be eligible for the funding.
“At Volunteer Florida, we recognize the incredible value that local organizations bring to rural communities across our state,” said Volunteer Florida CEO Josie Tamayo. “Through the Rural Community Assets Fund, we’re proud to invest in their efforts by supporting volunteer-driven solutions that strengthen community connections and ensure that every Floridian has access to meaningful services and support.”
There were more than half a dozen organizations in over 15 counties that were awarded grants during the 2024-25 grant period. Several prominent organizations have received funding, including the United Way and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, among others.
The application submission timeframe is now open and will accept online applications until August 14 at 5 p.m. Those wishing to apply for the grants can register at the website; additional questions can be sent to [email protected].
