Welcome to Friends of USAID on Substack!
We’re here because U.S. foreign aid works—and because it’s under threat. This is the place to get informed, stay engaged, and, when necessary, raise hell.
Our mission is straightforward: to educate, engage, and advocate by sharing real stories of how USAID’s work makes an impact. No matter how policy winds shift, we’re here to make the case that U.S. foreign aid isn’t just generosity—it’s strategy. It’s diplomacy. It’s national security. And frankly, it’s common sense.
What You Can Expect
This Substack will feature a mix of:
Real Stories from the Field – Firsthand accounts from development professionals, USAID staff, and the communities we’ve worked with to help you understand what we do and why it matters.
Expert Insights – Clear, fact-based explanations of USAID’s work around the globe, why it aligns with U.S. policy goals, and how it contributes to global security and American prosperity. Expect analysis from legal experts, policy specialists, and former USAID staff on key foreign aid challenges, legal battles, and policy shifts.
Advocacy & Action – Resources for those who want to support U.S. foreign aid, including letter templates, advocacy toolkits, and opportunities to engage with policymakers.
Regular Updates – Updates on key legal challenges, court cases, staffing changes, and shifts in the policy landscape affecting U.S. foreign aid.
Who are the Friends of USAID?
We’re a group of volunteers, united by a shared commitment to the transformative power of U.S. foreign aid. We’re here to advocate for the everyday Americans impacted by the illegal dismantling of a federal agency. We’ll be sharing stories from colleagues, local staff, beneficiaries, implementing partners, and policymakers to illustrate what’s at stake.
This is a volunteer-led effort. Many of us have dedicated our lives to humanitarian work—we know firsthand how vital this mission is. That’s why we’re here, giving our time, resources, and energy to this fight.
Join the Conversation
Whether you’re a former or current USAID employee, a policymaker, a development professional, a taxpayer curious about where foreign aid dollars go, or someone who simply cares about making the world a better place—this space is for you.
We invite you to subscribe, share, and engage as we work together to highlight the power and impact of U.S. global leadership through foreign aid.
And don’t forget to follow us on Instagram—where we’re the face of the resistance, calling out bad policy, breaking down foreign aid myths, and occasionally posting an excellent meme.
Let’s do this. Together.
