Habitat on the Hill 2025
Habitat on the Hill is an annual event that brings together participants from across the nation to advocate for affordable housing. The week was filled with insightful training sessions and discussions that focused on the current state of affordable housing in the country. This year, attendees discussed the national housing crisis, including a shortage of 800,000 starter homes—40,000 of them right here in Indiana. Amanda Moyer, President of our Young Professionals group, joined nearly 500 others at the event, and had the privilege of meeting with housing experts and Affiliate leaders, including CEO Habitat International Jonathan Reckford, Dr. Andrew Kahrl, a Professor of History of African American Studies at UVA, and Omkari Williams, the Gold Nautilus award-winning author of “Micro Activism: How You Can Make a Difference in the World (Without a Bullhorn).”
Amanda worked alongside Katie Mitchell from Habitat for Humanity International, who is also an Indianapolis local. Together, they met with Senators Todd Young and Jim Banks, as well as House Representatives Andre Carson and Victoria Spartz. These meetings allowed them to dig deeper into the affordable housing needs for their city and state and ask their representatives to take their concerns to the national level. While these meetings aim to influence federal policy, there is so much change that should be pushed for locally in Indiana. Affordable housing impacts everyone, and as a communities can work with local legislators to make the city a better place for all.
The young professional group is vital to the organization as they help bridge the gap and educate members of the community about the needs. Interestingly, young professionals are the biggest age group impacted by affordable housing issues. As Amanda reflected on her experience, she shared,
“Attending Habitat on the Hill was an eye-opening experience. It reinforced the importance of our advocacy work and the impact we can have on our community. As young professionals, we have the power to drive change and make a difference in the lives of those struggling with housing affordability.”
One of the key takeaways from the event is the importance of local action. While federal policy is crucial, there are many changes that can be advocated for at the local level to improve affordable housing in the Greater Indy area. By working with local legislators and community leaders, a significant impact can be made on the city’s housing landscape. Increasing Habitat’s focus on local solutions could create a more sustainable and inclusive housing market within Circle City.
