Citizen Engagement

Educating Americans About the Need for U.S. Foreign Assistance

The life-saving and life-changing benefits of U.S. foreign assistance are most evident in the countries we serve. What Americans don’t always see is that, for less than 1% of the federal budget, foreign assistance is a critical tool of American soft power and national security. OneAID works to inform Americans that foreign assistance is not charity – it is a strategy that ensures America remains safe, strong, and prosperous.

U.S. Foreign Assistance Makes Sense

Less Than 1% of the U.S. Federal Budget Goes to Foreign Aid

For a fraction of a percent of U.S. government spending, foreign assistance plays a critical role in advancing diplomacy, stability, and security.

11/15 of the United States' Top Trade Partners Were Foreign Aid Recipients

Development assistance helps create future markets for U.S. goods and services, supporting American jobs and economic growth.

Every $1 Spent on Conflict Prevention Can Save up to $16 in Crisis Response

Investing in stable governance and development is far more cost-effective than dealing with the aftermath of humanitarian crises or conflicts.

U.S. Supported Global Health Programs Have Saved 25+ Million Lives

Through PEPFAR, the President’s Malaria Initiative, and Gavi, U.S. aid has had a measurable impact on global health and pandemic preparedness.

Countries receiving aid from the U.S are more likely to support U.S. positions

Foreign assistance strengthens diplomatic relationships and reinforces American influence in international forums.

For Every $10 spent on military aid, less than $1 is spent on development aid

Development assistance addresses root causes of instability—such as poverty, corruption, and lack of education—reducing the need for future military intervention.

Learn About U.S. Foreign Assistance: Its Impact & Importance

The following organizations can help you better understand the role of U.S. foreign assistance, why it matters, and the real-world consequences of defunding it.

U.S. Global Leadership Coalition (USGLC)

The U.S. Global Leadership Coalition is a Washington, D.C.–based network of businesses, non-profits, faith-based groups, military leaders, and community advocates. Together, they highlight how strategic investments in diplomacy and development strengthen America’s national security, support economic growth, and save lives around the world. With a broad coalition of partners across the country, USGLC works to educate policymakers and the public on the impact and importance of U.S. foreign assistance.

Learn More

Foreign Policy for America

Foreign Policy for America is a national, nonpartisan advocacy group based in Washington, D.C. It brings together a diverse network of Americans to support principled U.S. leadership abroad, emphasizing diplomacy, development, and alliances that uphold security and prosperity. Through local events, advocacy campaigns, and a legislative scorecard tracking how Congress votes on key foreign policy issues, FP4A helps citizens engage and hold policymakers accountable.

Learn More

Center for Global Development

The Center for Global Development is an independent, nonpartisan think tank that produces evidence-based research and practical policy ideas to reduce global poverty and inequality. CGD’s work, from the Commitment to Development Index to innovative programs like Cash on Delivery Aid, helps policymakers and institutions design smarter, more effective global policies. Visitors can explore topics such as global health, climate and migration, education, aid effectiveness, and the future of development finance.

Learn More

What Can I Do to Help?

Each of us brings different life experiences and perspectives to civic life. This guide and video highlight how you can work to help strengthen American democracy. From building trust with neighbors to helping others understand how government works, there are many ways to put your perspective to work in support of a stronger, more resilient civic culture.

A Guide to Using Your Unique Institutional and International Perspective to Strengthen Our Civic Muscle

by OneAID | Aug 19, 2025

After service abroad, foreign diplomats and international development professionals often return home with a fresh perspective on American civic life and institutions. Whether you worked on public health programs, agricultural development, trade relations,...

Resources AND Toolkits

Access our collection of information sheets and toolkits for public education and engagement

Make an Impact

Congressional Toolkit

If you’re looking for a way to promote policies that matter most to you and your community, our Congressional Toolkit is designed to equip you with practical resources, strategies, and best practices to confidently and effectively communicate with your elected officials.

Access Now

Stay Connected

Community Storytelling

A collection of podcasts, documentary films, photography exhibits, social media accounts, and written works, designed by the community to inform and inspire audiences worldwide.

Access Now

Get Informed

Information Sheets

Understanding how we all benefit from U.S. foreign assistance and the full impact that comes after halting our efforts seems complex. Our information sheets help you make sense of things in a way that’s practical and easy to understand.