Volunteer Buff Grant

The Volunteer Buff Grant Program provides students with the opportunity and resources to create a service project that is impactful and meaningful to themselves and their community. By encouraging and empowering student leadership, students will expand service outreach to areas of impact that may not be represented in current VRC sponsored projects as well as gain valuable skills with real-world experience.

Applications are due by October 1st for Fall 2024 Projects.

Apply for a Volunteer Buff Grant

We recommend you review this rubric and budget template as you work on preparing your application materials.

Eligibility

Any type of direct service project that focuses on a community need will be eligible for consideration, but the applicant must provide research or background information to show that the proposed project addresses a relevant issue in our community. When engaging peers and other community members in service, it is crucial to prioritize diversity, equity and inclusion.

Evaluation

The VRC Joint Board will use a rubric to objectively evaluate the potential impact of each project in areas of feasibility, creativity, overall level of impact, and community engagement. An applicant will be notified when a decision has been made regarding their application.

Time Commitment

If an applicant’s service project is selected, they will meet with the VRC Joint Board at designated times depending on the duration and intensity of planning for the project. During these meetings, the applicant will provide updates about the project and discuss budget items. Overall, the time commitment is dependent upon individual projects and planning needs, which is determined by each applicant.

Project Reflection

Upon completion of the service project, applicants will complete a brief reflection of the service project, including how many participants there were, the impact on the community and overall experience of working with the VRC Joint Board. The goal of this survey is to address what areas of the process went well and what areas can be improved for future service projects.

Required Qualifiations

  • Must be a current, fee-paying undergraduate or graduate student at CU Boulder.
  • Must have a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher.
  • Must have two academic semesters left at CU.
  • Demonstrate ability and willingness to effectively communicate, collaborate and organize a service project with the help of the VRC Joint Board.
  • Must attend a VRC project lead training prior to start of project.
  • Must attend advisement meetings with the VRC Joint Board throughout the planning process of the service project.

Preferred Qualifiations

  • Interest in community engagement and service.
  • Previous leadership and/or group facilitation experience.
  • Knowledge and/or experience working with nonprofits, or with similar topics around social justice.