AmeriCorps Cape Cod: Program Update and Timeline of Developments
AmeriCorps Cape Cod, a long-standing public service program under Barnstable County, recently faced uncertainty following the sudden termination of its federal funding. Below is a clear timeline of key developments, recent legal updates, and the current status of the program.
Program Overview
AmeriCorps Cape Cod serves the Barnstable County community through group service projects, environmental education, community events, and emergency response efforts. Members are placed with towns and nonprofit partners across the region to support environmental protection, public health, and emergency preparedness. The 2024–2025 service year includes nine members participating in a residential, 11-month program.
Timeline of Key Events
April 27, 2025
Barnstable County received notice that federal AmeriCorps State and National funding for the program had been terminated effective April 25, 2025, as part of a nationwide funding reduction.
May 1, 2025
The Barnstable County Commissioners held a special meeting in response. With broad community support, the Commissioners voted unanimously to continue the program using previously allocated County funds. These funds were available due to a smaller corps, reduced staffing, and fewer program houses.
May 8, 2025
The Barnstable County Assembly of Delegates passed a resolution supporting the continuation of AmeriCorps Cape Cod and calling for the restoration of federal funding. The resolution also endorsed exploring alternative models for long-term sustainability.
June 5, 2025
A federal judge issued a preliminary injunction requiring AmeriCorps to reinstate terminated State and National grants in the 24 states and Washington, D.C. that had joined the lawsuit. Massachusetts was among those states, making AmeriCorps Cape Cod’s grant eligible for reinstatement.
June 6, 2025
The AmeriCorps Agency notified affected programs, including AmeriCorps Cape Cod, that their grants would be reinstated, with implementation guidance to follow.
Current Status
AmeriCorps Cape Cod is fully funded through August 2025 via County and reinstated federal support, ensuring no disruption for the current cohort of nine members. County and program leadership are reviewing guidance from the AmeriCorps Agency to determine the full scope of reinstatement and its implications for future service years.
While the federal government may appeal the ruling, local officials are proceeding cautiously and assessing all available options for the program’s future.
Next Steps
Barnstable County continues to evaluate strategies for sustaining the program beyond the current service year, including:
- Planning for future years with or without federal support;
- Exploring partnerships with state agencies and philanthropic organizations;
- Considering a County-led model as a contingency plan if federal support is not restored.
Further updates will be shared as more information becomes available.
For ongoing updates, visit: www.capecod.gov/americorps
