The Department of Government Efficiency is turning its focus on a new target: Americorps. Last week, volunteers with Americorps’ National Civilian Community Corps were let go after a federal DOGE mandate. 

This comes on the heels of National Volunteer Week, as the island’s Americorps programs get to work. 

From supporting students as young as kindergarten struggling to keep up, to celebrating college-bound seniors, responding to disasters, and championing environmental stewardship, the Americorps University of Guam Center is sounding the call to action, urging the island to join the cause.

“What we’re doing is making a difference, and it’s important. So, it’s important to keep on keeping on,” said Americorps Charlene Masiwemai. 

Charlene Masiwemai, Program Director of UOG Americorps, stands shoulder to shoulder with fellow Americorps programs on Guam as they launch service projects for National Volunteer Week, a nationwide initiative honoring those who help build stronger, more resilient communities.

“When we get them out into the schools and the communities, we want to concentrate on those who are really struggling,” said Masiwemai.  “Making sure the community is taken care of.”

It’s meaningful work, even as Americorps faces uncertainty at the federal level. 

Last week, volunteers with the National Civilian Community Corps, who are often the most visible after natural disasters, were let go due to cuts by the Department of Government Efficiency. 

As a result, California Governor Gavin Newsom even announced plans to sue the federal government over what he calls the dismantling of Americorps.

But what does that mean for Guam?

“Here on Guam, we fall under the auspices of the Serve Guam Commission. So, Serve Guam is our state commission, and they sub-grant to AmeriCorps state and national programs, which is the type of program we are. We are Americorps state and national—so currently, we are at a status quo,” added Masiwemai. 

Still, Masiwemai said they're staying ready.

“If it does trickle down to Guam, we can divert initiatives elsewhere. But it’s too soon to tell. We’re just kind of preparing for when that time comes–but we’re hoping that what we have in place is compliant as per the executive order,” said Masiwemai. 

Meantime, Americorps programs on Guam are rolling up their sleeves, from food distribution and passport services to healthy habits storytime at a local school later this week.