The AmeriCorps program is a powerful force for good—empowering individuals to build leadership skills while addressing critical challenges like affordable housing, education, and disaster relief. Here in Orange County, Habitat’s amazing AmeriCorps members help to build homes, strengthen neighborhoods, and expand our capacity to serve more families. In addition to our active service members, 23% of Orange Habitat’s current full-time staff are AmeriCorps alums—a testament to the lasting impact of the program on our community. 

The AmeriCorps program is facing unprecedented threats. Earlier this month, the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) placed nearly all AmeriCorps staff on administrative leave and shut down the National Civilian Community Corps (NCCC)—a key program that has supported disaster response, affordable housing, and community development efforts nationwide for decades, including sending teams to help rebuild Western NC after hurricane Helene. We’re concerned that these actions will ultimately have far-reaching consequences for all AmeriCorps programs, including ours. 

We need your help. Contact your members of Congress today and urge them to protect the AmeriCorps program and stand up for national service! Click here for a script and guidance for your outreach.