Are you looking for a way to make a difference in Colorado Springs, Colorado? From keeping city parks and trails clean to finding a program, event, or partner organization that makes a difference, there are plenty of volunteer opportunities available. The Nonprofit Infrastructure Grant (NPI) program is a great way for small, community-based nonprofit organizations to provide services to historically underrepresented, underserved, or under-resourced communities. This program is administered by the Colorado Department of Local Affairs (DOLA).To be eligible for the NPI grant, the governing bodies and staff of these organizations must be mostly comprised of residents who live in the communities they serve. They must also have a history of providing services in specific communities in the state and have their main offices in one of the communities they serve.
The grant is designed to help build capacity following the COVID-19 pandemic. Thanks to a digital equity grant from the city of Colorado Springs, Catholic Charities of Central Colorado is one of seven beneficiaries that are embarking on this project. Catholic Charities works hand in hand with people to provide programs and services that address the root causes of poverty and provide essential services. The eligibility requirements for the NPI grant were developed with small, community nonprofit organizations in mind and with the close collaboration of DOLA, RAPs, and other key stakeholders. These organizations or groups must have a history of providing effective, culturally appropriate, and relevant programs and services to their communities. If you're looking for an organization offering a particular service project in Colorado Springs, there are many options available. To get started, contact the District Attorney's Office-4th Judicial District or Catholic Charities of Central Colorado.
You can also reach out to The Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services department for more information about volunteer opportunities throughout the community.