AmeriCorps NCCC Disbands After Federal Budget Cuts

AmeriCorps’ National Civilian Community Corps (NCCC), a 30-year-old program involving over 2,000 young adults in disaster relief and community service nationwide, has abruptly discharged all volunteers after significant federal budget cuts by the Trump administration and the newly established Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Volunteers were ordered to immediately leave their posts, affecting a wide range of projects such as home rebuilding, food bank support, and wildfire mitigation. The NCCC has been especially active in disaster recovery, with teams logging millions of service hours since its founding. Many nonprofits and local agencies now face sudden shortages of critical manpower. The administration questioned the program’s use of taxpayer funds, while volunteers and partners expressed disappointment and concern for both affected communities and the young people whose service and training ended early. Members who completed at least 15% of their service term will receive prorated education awards, though many feel the cuts undermine community resilience and youth opportunities.