The recent cuts to AmeriCorps have particularly impacted the AmeriCorps National Civilian Community Corps (NCCC)—a vital branch of the program that focuses on disaster relief.
Although AmeriCorps officials have yet to comment publicly on the full extent of the cuts, organizations across the country are already preparing for further disruptions. The reduction in AmeriCorps funding and the discharge of NCCC volunteers represent a significant setback for national service efforts.
The National Peace Corps Association is Standing Up For Service by amplifying the powerful impact AmeriCorps makes nationwide. We recognize the value of national service and the meaningful difference it creates in our communities.
Here are 3 things we know about the impact of these cuts so far, led by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE):
1. Discharge of AmeriCorps NCCC Volunteers
On Tuesday, AmeriCorps NCCC teams were discharged prematurely, with no advance notice given to the organizations relying on their support. AmeriCorps NCCC volunteers—typically young adults aged 18 to 26—serve in teams to support communities through projects such as home construction, disaster recovery, and environmental conservation.
2. Paid Administrative Leave for AmeriCorps Staff
In addition to the discharge of NCCC volunteers, AmeriCorps staff have been placed on paid administrative leave, adding another layer of uncertainty to the organization’s operations.
3. A State-level Snapshot: Loss of Volunteers for Projects in Wisconsin
Several high-priority community initiatives in Wisconsin have been significantly impacted by the unexpected loss of National Civilian Community Corps (NCCC) volunteers. From housing development to legal aid, organizations are now scrambling to fill critical service gaps.
- Wild Rivers Habitat for Humanity – Burnett County
- A team of 8 to 10 NCCC volunteers was set to help build a home for local veterans.
- With the crew no longer available, the project is now delayed, and the organization is urgently seeking new volunteers to keep it moving forward.
- Belong Wisconsin – Plymouth
- This nonprofit, which serves children separated from their families by the foster care system, was expecting an NCCC team to run a summer camp.
- Now, with no team in place, the organization is rushing to recruit new volunteers to meet its goal of supporting 50 children this year.
- Serve Wisconsin Projects – Wausau
- Volunteers were scheduled to assist with housing construction, home restoration, and trail building in the Wausau area.
- Following the sudden loss of the team, Serve Wisconsin and partner organizations are revising staffing plans and working to fill the volunteer void.
- Milwaukee Justice Center
- This organization provides free legal assistance to low-income residents, relying heavily on AmeriCorps members to operate civil legal helplines and assist individuals with legal paperwork.
- The potential loss of these members has raised serious concerns about maintaining services for those who need them most.
Our NPCA Advocacy team made it as simple as possible for YOU to help us support Americorps in 5 simple steps 👣
1. Head to our Action Center ⬅️
2. Scroll to “Stand Up for Service! Protect Americorps.”
3. Click “Take Action.”
4. Enter your address — that’s it!
5. A pre-written email to all your elected officials will pop up along about why AmeriCorps matters. All you have to do is hit send.
One click = real impact. 💪
Corporation for National and Community Service photo by Scott Julian