Operating Sites FAQs

Information for current and potential operating sites regarding the application to become an NCLR subgrantee, matching funds, selection criteria, mandatory events, technical assistance, funding cycle, and benefits

How do you apply to be an NCLR subgrantee?

The National Council of La Raza conducts a Request for Proposal (RFP) process to select AmeriCorps operating sites. Because the Corporation grants national direct program awards on a three-year basis, the RFP process selects program operating sites for a three-year period. NCLR operating sites submit yearly continuation proposals on its ability to maximize results in local communities. NCLR supports affiliates that offer programs geared toward educational attainment and workforce development and possess the capabilities to demonstrate measurable impacts on service recipients, communities, and AmeriCorps members. AmeriCorps affiliates must include a well-planned, fiscally-supported, strategic volunteering program and a team of committed, hardworking individuals trained to meet program goals and objectives. NCLR expects AmeriCorps sites to collaborate on community service efforts, locally and nationally, to increase employment and educational opportunities for Hispanic Americans. The AmeriCorps program start date is September 1 of each year, and affiliates interested in applying should contact the NCLR AmeriCorps National Program Director.

Does the AmeriCorps program require matching funds?

The Corporation for National and Community Service requires, at a minimum, the following aggregate matches: 1) Member Support Costs: 15% nonfederal cash match for member support (includes living allowance, FICA, Unemployment Insurance, Workers Compensation, and Health Care), 2) Program Operating Costs: 33% cash or in-kind match for other member costs, staff, operating costs, internal evaluation, and administration.

What are the prospective selection criteria for applicants?

Affiliates are active and in good standing with NCLR. · NCLR affiliates offer an educational component or program that addresses the needs of children and/or the educational and employment needs of low-income youth and older adults. · Affiliates have an ability to measure program impact on service recipients, communities, and AmeriCorps members. · Affiliates have a capacity to leverage matching funds. · Affiliates represent areas that are underserved by NCLR and AmeriCorps.

Are there mandatory program events?

Yes. NCLR operating site staff are required to attend a three-day mandatory financial and program management accountability training seminar which includes: accounting structure, member requirements, activity reporting, administrative costs, match requirements, and reporting requirements. AmeriCorps program sites must also participate in at least two national service days.

Is technical assistance provided for the application?

Yes. The National Council of La Raza provides technical assistance in completing the Request for Proposal for the NCLR AmeriCorps program. The National Council of La Raza AmeriCorps program staff provide technical assistance to applicants through a series of conference calls to explain the program, provisions, member activities, and reporting requirements. Individual conversations are also scheduled with applicants to assist each affiliate with the specific or unique needs of their programs.

For grantees?

Traditionally, NCLR has always collaborated with local AmeriCorps, state commission, and other training and technical assistance providers such as Walker & Company, CHP International, Project STAR, and others to supplement training offerings. NCLR also uses an established system of regular monthly program director calls to provide formal and informal technical assistance. The training and technical assistance is geared to meet current needs of sites and generally focuses on an upcoming program report or deadline. Phone surveys, questionnaires, and site visits will be utilized to continuously assess the operating sites’ technical assistance.

How long is the funding cycle?

AmeriCorps grantees must reapply for funding from the Corporation for National and Community Service every three years.

What is the Web-Based Reporting System (WBRS)? How is online reporting accomplished for the AmeriCorps program?

The WBRS is the Corporation’s system that allows AmeriCorps operating sites to manage reporting and data tracking of their program. Operating sites collect program and financial data for regular input into the WBRS system, and NCLR accesses the WBRS system to review program input to track and monitor each site’s compliance of program requirements and progress toward program objectives.

What are Best Practices?

At the local level, through its Hispanic community-based organization affiliate network, NCLR has sought to identify, develop, and promote best practices in education, workforce development, and health programs.

How does an operating site benefit?

AmeriCorps sites enjoy national funding, NCLR field support, collaboration with state commissions, participation in statewide events, training and technical assistance, access to resources and publications, partnership opportunities, and community visibility.
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