Building Community in America Act
- Sponsor
- Rep. Smith, Adam [D-WA-9]
- Committees
- Education and Workforce Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Jul 16, 2026
Bottom line
This bill aims to diversify national and community service programs by prioritizing the recruitment of underrepresented groups, especially men, into key community-building and support roles.
What it actually does
H.R. 9766, the "Building Community in America Act," amends the National and Community Service Act of 1990 and the Domestic Volunteer Service Act of 1973. It expands the stated purpose of national and community service to include increasing participation among underrepresented populations, particularly young adults in community-building activities. The bill also establishes a new priority for programs that recruit and train underrepresented participants, including men, for various service activities like youth mentoring, disaster response, and skilled-trades apprenticeships.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that expanding participation in national service to underrepresented populations, particularly men in roles like mentoring and youth development, addresses critical societal needs and strengthens communities. They highlight the benefits of diverse representation in service, the positive impact on youth, and the potential for skill development and civic engagement among participants.
Opponents contend
Critics might argue that while the goal of inclusivity is laudable, explicitly prioritizing certain demographics could inadvertently lead to concerns about reverse discrimination or divert resources from other equally deserving populations or program areas. Some might also question the effectiveness of a top-down priority mandate versus organic outreach efforts.
The bill is very short and easy to read, making it highly accessible for anyone wishing to understand its provisions quickly.
Section 2(a)
Expanding Participation in National and Community Service
This provision adds a new purpose to the National and Community Service Act of 1990, explicitly stating that one of the Act's goals is to "expand participation in national and community service among populations underrepresented in service programs, including young adults underrepresented in mentoring, coaching, youth development, and other community-building activities." This formalizes the intent to diversify service programs and ensures federal efforts are directed towards addressing existing disparities.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue that explicitly stating this purpose ensures that federal efforts and funding are directed towards addressing existing disparities in service program participation, leading to more inclusive and effective community service.
Critics contend
No specific opposition is typically raised against explicitly stating a purpose for expanding participation, as the goal of inclusivity is generally supported. However, some might question if this is sufficient without more concrete mechanisms.
Tradeoffs
The primary tension lies in balancing broad inclusivity with specific targeting; however, this provision primarily sets a guiding principle rather than a direct mandate.
Section 2(b)
Required Priority for Underrepresented Participants
This provision mandates that national service priorities, project proposals, and volunteer assignments under both the National and Community Service Act of 1990 and the Domestic Volunteer Service Act of 1973 must include a priority for programs that actively recruit and train underrepresented participants, specifically mentioning men. This priority applies to activities such as youth coaching, after-school support, conservation corps, disaster response, public safety, and skilled-trades apprenticeships.