25-26 Chicago 400 Alliance - Housing Action Corps

The three Chicago 400 Alliance VISTAs will serve with the Chicago 400 Alliance in Chicago, IL from August 2025-2026. The Chicago 400 Alliance is part of Housing Action Corps, an AmeriCorps VISTA program managed by Housing Action Illinois since 2010. Housing Action Corps members receive custom training, support, and networking opportunities in housing and community development, in addition to the traditional benefits of AmeriCorps VISTA. Learn more: housingactionil.org/americorps.

The Chicago 400 Alliance is a campaign to address the crisis caused by public conviction registries and housing banishment laws¿led by people with past convictions who are experiencing homelessness because of these laws. The Chicago 400 Alliance includes victim advocates, housing advocates, recovery providers, social service agencies, and policymakers who have witnessed how these laws undermine individual and community safety. Together, we build civic empowerment, connect people to resources, and organize for policy change.

There are three main projects our VISTAs will complete during their year of service with us that are explained in the Member Duties section below. Each position will focus most of their time on one of the project areas as opposed to all leading the completion of all three. Applicants are encouraged to apply if they are interested in any of these three projects.

Our ideal candidates will have 2-4 years experience developing or implementing projects relating to one of these areas, as well as experience with volunteer management, social work, and/or community organizing. They will be reliable, proactive, and detailed, as well as demonstrate the collaboration skills needed to contribute to a team-oriented campaign. Applicants should be motivated to work in a range of organizing contexts, invested in improving systems and outcomes, energized by working with others, and excited to learn new skills. This position offers a $500 monthly housing stipend.