Governor Gavin Newsom announced that the state of California will challenge the Trump Administration’s decision to dismantle the AmeriCorps service program and plans to ramp up recruitment for California’s own service corps. Newsom criticized the federal move, calling it “a middle finger to volunteers serving their fellow Americans” and affirmed California’s intent to legally contest the decision.
Newsom emphasized the importance of service programs, highlighting the role AmeriCorps members played during the Los Angeles fires. “AmeriCorps members were on the ground, distributing supplies and supporting families,” he stated. He reiterated that the shutdown would hinder these efforts.
GO-Serve Director Josh Fryday commented, “DOGE’s actions aren’t about making government work better—it’s about making communities weaker.” He elaborated on the diverse roles AmeriCorps members play, from educating children to aiding disaster recovery, while asserting that AmeriCorps provides “boots on the ground” rather than bureaucracy.
The press release also compared past visions for America, quoting John F. Kennedy, who called for citizens to partake in a collective effort for the greater good. California’s statement juxtaposed this sentiment with the current stance, which they describe as leaving communities to fend for themselves.
California’s Service Corps is the largest in the nation, with programs like #CaliforniansForAll College Corps, California Climate Action Corps, Youth Service Corps, and AmeriCorps California. The state seeks to respond to challenges like post-pandemic recovery, workforce planning, and rebuilding from the fires in Los Angeles.
In the 2023-24 service year, AmeriCorps members in California contributed significantly by mentoring over 73,800 students and providing education and employment support to more than 17,000 foster youth, among other impacts. The Corps also played a crucial role during recent emergencies, such as the Los Angeles fires.
“These actions will dismantle vital lifelines in communities across California,” Fryday concluded, underscoring the ongoing efforts to maintain and bolster service initiatives in the state.
