HACLA AmeriCorps Program

In January 2026, HACLA launched an AmeriCorps program in partnership with California Volunteers to strengthen direct services and prevent homelessness recurrence for our residents. HACLA AmeriCorps members strengthen housing stability, expand access to social services, and increase employment readiness for Section 8 voucher holders, Permanent Supportive Housing residents, and WorkSource Center clients.

In just over six months, the first cohort of HACLA AmeriCorps members delivered more than 15,000 hours of direct service across seven sites. Together, they have supported over 650 Emergency Housing Voucher households, HUD-VASH veterans, permanent supportive housing residents, and WorkSource Center clients. Each interaction contributes to housing stability, strengthens community relationships, and supports overall community well-being.

HACLA AmeriCorps members not only connect residents to services — they are building belonging. Member host dozens of community building activities, including mindfulness classes, mealtime gatherings, digital and financial literacy workshops, book clubs, and celebrations that bring joy back into spaces where it had been missing for too long. The result is a program that strengthens HACLA’s resident-centered services while also cultivating the next generation of community leaders.

Join Our Team

We are recruiting for the 2026-2027 program year! Join HACLA AmeriCorps and help individuals and families faced with housing instability build brighter futures. The program runs October 2026 through September 2027 and offers several benefits, including a living allowance of up to $35,000, an education award up to $10,000, health care and student loan deferment (if eligible).

If you are interested in joining our 26-27 AmeriCorps cohort, please apply by September 4, 2026: HACLA AmeriCorps Application

Our Work

Permanent Supportive Housing: AmeriCorps Members placed at Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) sites support the agency’s PSH communities by enhancing on-site services and helping residents successfully transition from homelessness to long-term housing stability. Members build community cohesion, create opportunities for social connection, and develop peer support systems that foster thriving, sustainable living environments.

Section 8: HACLA AmeriCorps Members placed in Section 8 play a vital role in expanding the agency’s capacity to serve housing voucher holders with complex needs. Members support Section 8 Advisors, Housing Program Advisors, and Ombudspersons in assisting households with mental health and social service needs by providing direct support, referrals, and resource navigation in addition to digital literacy and employment readiness.

WorkSource Center: HACLA AmeriCorps Members at the Watts LA WorkSource Center play a vital role in advancing job readiness, digital literacy, and workforce training to reduce employment barriers and create sustainable economic opportunities for HACLA residents and Angelenos more broadly. Members will support WorkSource Center staff with facilitating workshops, enrolling participants in employment opportunities, and implementing critical workforce programming.