The Trump administration has taken a bold step by placing a significant portion of AmeriCorps employees on administrative leave. This decision affects about 75% of the agency’s full-time staff, totaling 535 out of 700 employees. The administration aims to rebuild the Clinton-era volunteer program from the ground up, according to sources familiar with the situation.
This move comes as the administration seeks to address longstanding issues within AmeriCorps, which has faced scrutiny for its handling of taxpayer funds. AmeriCorps, created by former President Bill Clinton in 1993, has been designed to promote community service across the nation. However, it has struggled with accountability, failing eight consecutive audits over the past decade.
The new approach includes preemptively pulling volunteers from the National Civilian Community Corps, which targets youth aged 18 to 26. Additionally, contracts worth approximately $250 million have been canceled, signaling a significant shift in how the agency operates. Despite these changes, officials have stated that AmeriCorps will continue to exist but will essentially restart its operations.
Critics, including Republican lawmakers, have voiced concerns about the agency’s financial management. Representative Burgess Owens, chair of the House subcommittee overseeing AmeriCorps, highlighted the agency’s inability to detect fraud and its repeated failures in audits. He called for a comprehensive overhaul, arguing that taxpayers should not fund an agency that continuously fails to meet basic standards of accountability.
The agency’s budget has been substantial, receiving around $1 billion annually. Yet, this funding has not translated into effective oversight or operational success. The Biden administration proposed an increase in funding for fiscal year 2025, raising questions about the future direction of AmeriCorps.
In light of these developments, the Trump administration’s actions reflect a commitment to reforming a program that has faced significant challenges. As the agency prepares for a fresh start, many will be watching closely to see if these changes lead to a more efficient and accountable AmeriCorps.