AUGUSTA — The Maine Commission for Community Service is seeking proposals from organizations or partnerships to develop regional volunteer centers in six areas of the state. Development means establishing centers where none exist and strengthening operations of any existing volunteer centers.

Volunteer centers are one-stop locations for individuals as well as groups or businesses seeking to connect with volunteer programs, nonprofit as well as public organizations and staff of community volunteer programs, and community leaders seeking to identify appropriate volunteer roles in local responses to needs or issues.

The deadline is Dec. 16. For a full description, visit the grants section at www.maineservicecommission.gov/grants.

Eligible applicants include Maine-based regional nonprofits, educational institutions, government agencies and foundations. Applications from partnerships or coalitions whose members represent local organizations working together on volunteer center development are encouraged.