Approximately 1,300 Americans served Delaware through AmeriCorps last year. This federal agency invests in organizations in Sussex County, including education services such as Relay Delaware, which provides training for future educators in underserved communities, and youth programs like the Children’s Beach House in Lewes, which provides early childhood education and after-school programming. These organizations rely on AmeriCorps to help facilitate local programs that benefit the community.
AmeriCorps allowed me to serve the people of Sussex from 2021 to 2023. Throughout my tenure, I was the volunteer coordinator for Sussex County Habitat for Humanity. I helped build at least a dozen houses, ranging from Laurel to Georgetown and Milton. I recruited groups as far as Hamilton College from upstate New York, as well as regional local banks such as Shore United, to help us in our mission to provide affordable housing to Sussex County residents. Every time a group came and volunteered, they learned more about Sussex County, gained experience in home development, and understood the importance of how volunteers like themselves contribute to the improvements that Habitat aims for.
AmeriCorps allowed me to meet many people in the Cape Region. The people exposed me to local issues it faces, such as massive traffic during the busy season, environmental concerns like pollution due to rapid development, and the housing challenges faced by many Delaware residents. All parties that interact with AmeriCorps should be concerned about the current efforts to limit Americans from investing their effort in full-time volunteer opportunities. AmeriCorps plays a significant role in supporting the Cape Region and should be able to expand its investment in the area.
AmeriCorps brings considerable attention to the issue of increasing population in lower Delaware and how this population boom directly affects the housing market. The problem of never needing to invest in quality, affordable housing for all Sussex County residents has been a prominent concern, and the potential loss of AmeriCorps as an asset and investor in the community will only exacerbate these existing and growing concerns.
I urge everyone to raise awareness about what is happening to AmeriCorps with your local representatives, as it allowed me to explore and help the areas of the Cape Region. I want future generations to have this opportunity as well. AmeriCorps changed my life and made me a better advocate for the people of Delaware, especially the Cape Region.
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