The Dismantling of AmeriCorps: Another Blow to Our Communities

Dear Friends of The Common Place,

We write to you with heavy hearts.

This past week, devastating changes have unfolded at AmeriCorps — the federal agency that has long been a vital partner in helping communities like ours recover, rebuild, and thrive. Under the direction of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), AmeriCorps has been severely dismantled: hundreds of staff have been laid off, nearly $400 million in grants were rescinded, and more than 30,000 corps members and Senior volunteers nationwide now face an uncertain future.

At The Common Place, we have felt this impact personally.
In partnership with Salt & Light Community Church, TCP was proud to host two AmeriCorps NCCC teams at Southwestern Presbyterian Church (SWPC) in March and April. These dedicated young people used SWPC as a launching point for vital recovery work in West and Southwest Philadelphia — communities still bearing the scars of disinvestment and natural disasters.

Tragically, the most recent group of AmeriCorps members was abruptly ordered to leave with only 24 hours’ notice, unable to complete the critical projects they had committed to. This decision, handed down by DOGE, has left unfinished work, broken trust, and a deep sense of sadness among all involved.

The dismantling of AmeriCorps is not an abstract policy change — it has real, painful consequences for our neighbors, our children, and our future.

This is yet another example of how funding cuts by this administration are leaving communities like ours without the resources and people power we desperately need.

We urge you to:

• Stay informed about what is happening to national service programs.
• Contact your Congressperson and elected officials and tell them why AmeriCorps — and national service — matter.
• Continue to support the work of TCP, as we press forward to serve and uplift our community even in the face of these setbacks.

Now more than ever, we need each other.
We remain committed to the work — and we are grateful to have you alongside us.