Exclusive | Volunteers with AmeriCorps youth program let go after DOGE visit

WASHINGTON — One of the largest federal civil service organizations has let go of scores of young volunteers, The Post has learned — shortly after the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) visited the agency’s headquarters.Volunteers with AmeriCorps’ National Civilian Community Corps (NCCC) program were abruptly sent notices Tuesday instructing them to pack up and go home, according to a memo obtained by The Post.“In alignment with the Trump-Vance Administration priorities … AmeriCorps NCCC is working within new operational parameters that impact the program’s ability to sustain program operations,” the memo said.“As a result, AmeriCorps is sending all NCCC members to their homes of record as soon as possible.”AmeriCorps’ NCCC program had a budget of $37.7 million during fiscal year 2024 and was on track to receive $42.7 million during the current fiscal year, according to its website.Enrollees were told that their positions would be terminated by April 30, according to a separate memo sent out to members.

“I am hereby approving your early release from the NCCC program for compelling personal circumstances,” the letter from NCCC National Director Ken Goodson said.“Your early departure is considered compelling as it results from program circumstances beyond your control.”Volunteers were also told that they may be eligible for a “pro-rated education award if you have completed 15% or more of your 1700-hour service term.”So far, the extent of the reductions at AmeriCorps NCCC is unclear as is whether the cuts extend beyond that program, which enrolls young adults in various environmental, housing and disaster response initiatives across the country.AmeriCorps recently confirmed that DOGE had begun looking into the federal agency.

“Staff from DOGE are currently working at AmeriCorps headquarters and the agency is supporting their requests,” AmeriCorps press secretary Erin Schneider told Politico West Wing Playbook last week....