National Service at Risk: NAVPLG Stands with AmeriCorps and Supports Emergency Response Efforts

Across the country, national service is facing an unprecedented threat. In response to executive actions by the current presidential administration and the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), AmeriCorps programs, a vital part of the civic landscape, have been severely disrupted. Hundreds of thousands of hours of service are now lost, and the future of national service is at risk.

The National Association of Volunteer Program Leaders in Government (NAVPLG) stands in unwavering support of AmeriCorps members, State Service Commissions, grantees, and the entire service community during this crisis.

The Impact

In recent weeks, AmeriCorps has:

• Sent home all AmeriCorps National Civilian Community Corps (NCCC) members.

• Placed approximately 85% of AmeriCorps federal staff on paid administrative leave.

• Halted and terminated grants critical to disaster response, public health, education, and community resilience.

As a direct result, communities across the nation have been left vulnerable, just as they rely most heavily on service programs to fill urgent gaps.

NAVPLG’s Response

NAVPLG recognizes that service is not a political issue — it is an American value.
As leaders of volunteer engagement in government, we have seen firsthand the power of AmeriCorps members to transform communities and support critical government services.

In solidarity with national partners such as America’s Service Commissions (ASC), AL!VE, and CCVA, NAVPLG:

• Publicly affirms the vital role of AmeriCorps and national service in strengthening America’s communities.

• Launches new membership support programs for State Service Commissions and active AmeriCorps members.

• Encourages all members and partners to support the ASC National Emergency Assistance Fund for AmeriCorps members affected by these disruptions.

"National service is not a luxury — it is the backbone of civic engagement and resilience. We must defend it now more than ever."
— Tony Richardson, Vice President of Marketing and Technology, NAVPLG

Support the National Emergency Assistance Fund

NAVPLG is proud to endorse the America’s Service Commissions National Emergency Assistance Fund, created to provide direct financial relief to displaced AmeriCorps members.
This Fund helps cover basic needs like housing, transportation, and food for those whose service terms were abruptly ended or disrupted.

To learn more or to donate, visit:

• America’s Service Commissions Emergency Fund

Every dollar goes directly to help AmeriCorps members who have dedicated their time and talents to serving America.

Membership Opportunities for Service Leaders

To ensure national service leaders remain connected, resourced, and supported during this time, NAVPLG is proud to offer:

• Free individual memberships to all State Service Commissions

• Free memberships to active AmeriCorps members hosted by government and nonprofit agencies with at least one active NAVPLG member

• Discounted memberships for AmeriCorps alumni joining in 2025

Learn more about how you can take advantage of this special initiative here:

•  NAVPLG Membership Initiative for AmeriCorps and State Service Commissions

Additionally, public employees transitioning out of service are encouraged to explore NAVPLG’s Next Chapter Program, offering continued professional development and networking opportunities after government service:

•  Next Chapter Program for Public Service Professionals

Take Action Today

• Contact your Members of Congress and urge them to restore and protect AmeriCorps funding.
  Use this easy advocacy tool from Voices for National Service.

• Share your stories on the impact of AmeriCorps and national service in your community.

• Support AmeriCorps members through the Emergency Fund.

At NAVPLG, we believe that service is a cornerstone of democracy and community strength.
We will continue to stand with AmeriCorps members, State Commissions, and volunteer program leaders in government to ensure that service remains a vibrant and vital part of America’s future.