Welcome to Friends of USAID on Substack
Real Stories, Real Impact: The Fight for U.S. Humanitarian Leadership
America’s global leadership in humanitarian assistance isn’t about charity—it’s about impact. For decades, USAID has been at the forefront of U.S. foreign aid, driving stability, strengthening economies, preventing conflicts, and building alliances—all while advancing American interests. Now, as this critical work faces unprecedented threats, it’s more important than ever to highlight the value of U.S. foreign assistance and the real people it affects.
At its best, USAID represents the strongest values of the United States: problem-solving, generosity, and a commitment to a safer, more prosperous world. Friends of USAID is here to highlight those successes, provide fact-based analysis, and foster a deeper understanding of how foreign aid serves American interests.
Our mission is simple: to educate, engage, and inspire action by sharing real stories of how USAID’s work has made an impact. No matter where policy decisions take us in the coming years, we’re committed to making the case for U.S. foreign aid as a powerful tool for diplomacy, economic growth, and global stability.
Because U.S. foreign aid isn’t charity—it’s strategy. And we’re here to show you why.
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.
Why This Matters
Foreign aid isn’t just about helping others—it’s about making America stronger and safer.
Investing in humanitarian aid, economic development, and disaster response helps stabilize fragile regions, prevent crises before they spiral out of control, and strengthen U.S. diplomatic relationships. These efforts also open new markets for American businesses, create jobs, and reinforce the United States’ role as a leader on the global stage.
But today, USAID is under threat. Policy and administrative changes are dismantling critical foreign aid programs—hurting everyday Americans in the process. These cuts don’t just impact the people we serve abroad; they affect businesses, workers, and communities here at home. We can’t afford to ignore the consequences.
Our Commitment to Dignity & Responsible Storytelling
Too often, narratives around foreign aid can lean into exploitative imagery that strips people of their agency. We reject that approach.
Instead, we are committed to storytelling that upholds the dignity, humanity, and resilience of the communities we serve. Additionally, we recognize that for some, sharing their experiences can come with risks. We will always prioritize security and anonymity where needed to protect individuals from retaliation or other threats.
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.
Do you have a story to share?
We want to hear from you. If you’ve been impacted by USAID’s work—whether as a staff member, partner, or beneficiary—reach out at usaidfromtheamericanpeople@gmail.com.
We are committed to your privacy and confidentiality. We’re working on setting up an anonymous form if you prefer to submit your stories without using a personal email account—stay tuned.
We believe in our mission. We believe in the people we serve and in the good work our colleagues perform. Their stories matter. Your story matters. Let’s make sure they’re heard.
That money is keeping people alive. And protecting us from Ebola!!
Yay! Finally telling our story!