Disability Inclusion
The ICVS supports efforts to include individuals with disabilities in national and
community service initiatives. We believe there can be a role for individuals with
disabilities in every service project. To further our goal of inclusion, we have
resources available to assist programs. We can help provide training and technical
assistance related to etiquette, outreach, recruitment, retention, disclosure, accommodations,
accessibility, and the interaction between national service benefits and other federal
aid. We also have funding available to provide accommodations so that individuals
with disabilities can participate in national service programs.
The ICVS Accessibility Team (A-Team)
For more information about supporting members with disabilities, contact ICVS at
icvs@iowalifechanging.com or call
1-800-308-5987 and ask to speak with the Disability Inclusion Coordinator.
Inclusion Mini-Grants
Each year the ICVS allocates funding to support service projects that engage persons with disabilities as volunteers.
These mini-grants have been offered during AmeriCorps week and at other special
times, such as during the celebration of the 20th anniversary of the Americans with
Disabilities Act.
If you are a member of a disability agency and you would like to
know about local national service programs that you would like to approach regarding
partnership on a volunteer project, please contact the ICVS Disability Inclusion
Coordinator.
If you would like more information on the grant requirements, please view this 45-minute technical assistance webinar to have your questions answered.
2011 Inclusive Service Project Mini Grants RFP is here!
The Iowa Commission on Volunteer Service (ICVS) will allocate funds to support community service projects that promote and engage persons with disabilities as volunteers alongside national service participants. Any national service program may apply for a mini-grant up to $500. This year, more programs than ever before are eligible to apply for funding including AmeriCorps State, AmeriCorps National, AmeriCorps VISTA, AmeriCorps NCCC, Senior Corps and Learn & Serve programs.
Programs will partner with disability agencies/organizations to coordinate and implement a service project that meets a need in the community. Individuals with disabilities will be recruited and participate as volunteers in service project activities. Inclusive service projects may occur throughout the 2011 calendar year. Once all available funds are awarded to the most qualified projects, there will be no further allocation until 2012.
ICVS prefers, but does not require, that service projects correlate with state and national days of service. For a list of recognized Days of Service, please visit: www.volunteeriowa.org/programs/service-program.aspx. Earth Day, Summer of Service and Veteran's Day are also recognized as Days of Service for the purpose of this mini grant cycle.
Proposals are due by noon on the following dates: December 9, 2010; March 17, 2011; May 23, 2011; August 4, 2011.
The required application cover sheet can be completed by filling in the form fields within the document. To access any of the internal links, be sure to hold down the "ctrl" key while clicking the link.
The RFP contains resources to help a beginner develop a successful inclusive service project.
Please save a copy of this RFP for your records. You may contact ICVS Disability Inclusion
Coordinator for any technical assistance necessary.
Serve Iowa Inclusion Conference
For several years, the ICVS has partnered with volunteer centers, nonprofit organizations,
and disability organizations to organize a conference during which individuals with
disabilities can learn about and connect with local volunteer opportunities. The
conference helps individuals with disabilities learn about how to choose a volunteer
position that meets their interests.
To find out about the next scheduled conference, contact the ICVS Inclusion Coordinator or check our Calendar.
Links to Additional Resources
Check out the Disability Inclusion section of our Resource page for helpful links
and documents.