AmeriCorps Cuts Hit Maine Hard

  •  The Trump administration cut $400 million (41%) from AmeriCorps, putting over 120 positions and eight programs in Maine at risk.

  • Local Impact on Communities: Small towns like Chebeague Island rely heavily on AmeriCorps members to fill critical service gaps, including wildfire prevention and clean energy projects.

  • Loss of Opportunities for Young Volunteers: Many AmeriCorps members, often recent grads in their first professional roles, now face job uncertainty, loss of education awards, and halted community projects.

  • Wide-Ranging Program Benefits: AmeriCorps programs in Maine support public health, environmental education, digital inclusion, and outdoor recreation—efforts now threatened by funding cuts.

  • Legal Challenge Underway: Maine joined 22 other states in a lawsuit alleging the cuts violated federal law and disproportionately harm underserved communities.