WASHINGTON, D. C. — U.S. Senator Richard C. Shelby (R-Ala) announced today that the Corporation for National and Community Service has announced the availability of approximately $4 million in Challenge Grants for nonprofit organizations to expand or launch new programs that encourage the baby boomer generation, those born between 1946 and 1964, to become volunteers to help meet important community needs.

Senator Shelby said, “I am pleased to announce the availability of almost $4 million in Challenge Grants for nonprofit organizations. Recipients of these grants must focus on engaging baby boomers in full-time, part-time or periodic community service opportunities. I encourage all eligible organizations to apply as these grants are mutually beneficial to both baby boomers and their communities.”

Challenge Grants are matching grants in which applicants are required to provide at least $2 in private funds to match every federal dollar awarded. The Corporation for National and Community Service anticipates making up to eight Challenge Grants this year, with a minimum grant of $500,000 and a maximum of $1 million. The deadline for applications is September 27, 2005. The Corporation expects to announce its selections by early December.

For more information, contact Marci Hunn at (202) 606-5000, extension 420, or send an email to ChallengeGrants@cns.gov. A more detailed description of this funding opportunity is available at http://www.nationalservice.gov/for_organizations/funding/nofa.asp.

- 30 -