As the need for affordable housing increases throughout America, many understaffed Habitat affiliates are struggling to meet the housing needs of the community. The goal of the Habitat for Humanity National Service program is to help local Habitat affiliates operate more efficiently and effectively by maximizing existing volunteers, increasing capacity for new volunteers and most importantly, meeting the housing needs of communities by building more houses for low-income families. Habitat for Humanity National Service provides an opportunity for philanthropic individuals to serve local Habitat affiliates through the AmeriCorps program. AmeriCorps members are placed at local affiliates where they work to engage communities, build homes, lead volunteers and increase affiliate capacity and productivity.  Watch this video to learn about Habitat for Humanity and AmeriCorps.

Two Unique Opportunities to Serve

 AmeriCorps is divided into three main programs: AmeriCorps State and National Direct; Volunteers in Service to America, or VISTA; and National Civilian Community Corps. Habitat has service opportunities available through the National Direct and VISTA programs. Both programs place members at local affiliates with the goal of helping them meet the increasing need for affordable housing, but each program has a unique focus. 

AmeriCorps National Direct

• Members focus on direct service activities. This means they engage directly with volunteers, partner families and community members.
• Members serve in construction services, family services, youth programs, community and faith relations, resource development and volunteer services.
• To find out more, visit AmeriCorps National.

AmeriCorps VISTA

• Members focus on indirect service and capacity-building activities. Members’ activities also directly relate to VISTA’s mission of eliminating poverty through community awareness and involvement.
• Members serve in community and faith relations, resource development, family services, construction development, ReStore development, youth programs outreach and volunteer program development.
• To find out more, visit AmeriCorps VISTA.