2026 California Men’s Service Challenge
Published: October 2, 2026
Application Due Date: October 19, 2026
Contact Information: Funding@CaliforniaVolunteers.CA.GOV
Grant Description
The 2026 California Men’s Service Challenge Funding Opportunity awards state local assistance funds to an organization operating a multi-region service program that expands opportunities for young men and boys by increasing high school and college graduation rates, building meaningful social connection and personal development, and promoting or enhancing their participation in service opportunities.
Eligible Applicants
Applicants that are a 501 (c) 3 organization and are a current funded partner of California Volunteers through the 2025 California Men’s Service Challenge are eligible to apply. Applicants must have an existing evidence-based program model that increases high school and college graduation rates for young men and boys in three or more regions.
Funding Priorities
Applicants must address organizational capacity building activities that build long-term sustainability for programs focused on addressing California’s growing crisis of connection and opportunity for young men and boys.
- Strengthening core administrative functions such as finance, procurement, data management, human resources, and compliance.
- Supporting partnership development, evaluation systems, and process improvements that increase organizational efficiency or service quality.
- Expanding organizational capacity through staff or service member talent pathways and recruitment activities, training, contractual and consultant services, investments in technology, and other internal operational enhancements.
Application Deadline
All application components must be received by Monday, October 19, 2026. See Application Instructions for submission guidelines.
Application Documents
Technical Assistance
Direct questions via email to Funding@CaliforniaVolunteers.CA.GOV
Questions & Answers
Frequently Asked Questions (Updated October 8, 2026)
