Serve as a Volunteer Reviewer

Volunteers play a vital role in the community-led work of Austin Community Foundation. We believe funding decisions are strongest when they reflect the community’s experience, perspectives, and values.

Whether you’re passionate about education or strengthening the Central Texas community, volunteering as a reviewer is a meaningful, hands-on way to give back.

Volunteer reviewer opportunities

Scholarships

Read and score applications from students seeking financial support to reach their college and career goals.

Forever Austin Fund

Read and score nonprofit grant proposals that address urgent and systemic needs in Central Texas.

Why volunteer?

Bring community perspectives into funding decisions.

Learn equitable, trust-based review practices.

Build knowledge of local needs, students’ goals, and nonprofit solutions.

As someone that has utilized services in Austin to help me while in need, this gives me a chance to pay that kindness forward. I believe it’s our civic duty to help our communities and this is one of the most impactful ways to do so.

Kay 2026 volunteer reviewer

Time well spent. I was reminded of or learned about organizations that were not on my radar that deserve support, and I was reminded why I love Austin—it’s the caring people.

Nora 2026 volunteer reviewer

This experience helped me be more connected with the Austin community and provided insight into the efforts going on behind the scenes to make society more equitable.

Willie 2026 volunteer reviewer

Expectations and eligibility

Time commitment: Approximately 6–8 hours per opportunity (volunteers can choose to do both).

Format: Online review with one virtual training.

Support: Training, a clear scoring rubric, and help from ACF staff.

Requirements: English proficiency and access to a computer and the internet. Follow confidentiality and conflict-of-interest guidelines, attend required training, and complete assigned reviews by the deadline. Must be 18 years or older to participate.

Scholarships: Open to anyone. Prior scholarship recipients make excellent reviewers!
Forever Austin Fund: Open to all who reside in Central Texas.

We welcome volunteers of all identities, professions, and lived experiences.