300 Main Street, Suite 200, Dubuque, IA 52001
Mon – Thurs 8 am – 5 pm, Fri 8 am – 12 pm
Dear City Leaders & Chamber of Commerce Directors,
Volunteer Iowa is excited to share three new funding opportunities designed to help Iowa cities strengthen local volunteer engagement, youth leadership, and community connections. These initiatives offer funding, training, and resources that can support your city’s efforts to build stronger, more connected communities. 
Receive up to $4,000 and access to a nationally recognized accreditation program that helps cities and partner organizations better leverage volunteers to meet community needs. This is an excellent opportunity for municipalities that rely on volunteers for events, park programs, or community initiatives to increase efficiency and impact.
Youth Service Board Development
Cities awarded $3,000 can support the creation of a youth service board that engages local students in planning a September 11th Day of Service (9/11/2026).
This initiative provides a powerful way for cities to nurture civic engagement, develop youth leadership, and connect younger residents to community improvement efforts. This is a perfect opportunity for cities to improve upon or create a Mayor’s Youth Council.
Cities or partner organizations will each receive $3,000 to develop a family volunteer program engaging children and their guardians in a meaningful service project on 9/11 Day of Service (2026) involving at least 50 family volunteers and community members—strengthening bonds across generations while addressing local needs. This is a great opportunity for cities to launch a new community event, or tie it in with existing events by adding a service component.
