Selma Revitalizes Housing with Rebooted AmeriCorps Program

The city of Selma, Alabama, is revitalizing its housing sector through a rebooted AmeriCorps program aimed at addressing the ongoing housing shortage. This federal initiative is designed to provide essential manpower to meet community needs, particularly in rebuilding efforts following the destruction caused by an EF-2 tornado in January 2023.

The recent reactivation of the AmeriCorps program in Selma will involve members actively participating in the revitalization of neighborhoods. Local officials emphasize that housing is one of the city’s most pressing needs. Robinson, a representative involved in the initiative, stated, “We will be out revitalizing the neighborhood. Assisting the community with getting housing, whether that’s going to be rebuilding a new building.”

Members of the program will receive a living stipend, health insurance, and an education award that can be applied towards college costs or student loans upon completing their service. This support framework is designed to attract a diverse group of participants, especially those with skills in carpentry and electrical work.

In addition to construction skills, the program seeks individuals with business acumen and strong communication abilities. These members will assist residents in navigating housing applications and inform them about available housing opportunities. Robinson further noted, “A lot of different opportunities in this program. We’re ready to meet the needs.”

As part of the program’s launch, the city is hosting an AmeriCorps sign-up event on Thursday from 12:00 noon to 1:30 PM at the Selma Convention Center. Local community leaders, including Montgomery County Commission Chairman Doug Singleton, are optimistic about the positive impact this initiative will have on the city’s recovery and revitalization efforts.

The AmeriCorps initiative represents a significant step towards addressing the housing challenges faced by Selma. By leveraging community involvement and federal resources, the program aims to foster a more resilient and sustainable living environment for residents. As Selma continues to rebuild from recent disasters, the support of programs like AmeriCorps could prove invaluable in ensuring that the community emerges stronger.