HOME Initiative – Association of Defense Communities (ADC)

STRENGTHENING OUR
NATIONAL SECURITY STARTS AT

Our military’s ability to succeed depends on having a strong foundation at home, and that begins with America’s Defense Communities. As modern threats evolve, these communities play a critical role in our nation’s resilience—tackling challenges that extend beyond the installation fence line. From protecting vital infrastructure to sustaining mission readiness, their impact has never been more essential.

Yet, the Department of Defense’s current focus and investments in these areas fall short of what’s needed. To secure the future of our military’s home, ADC’s HOME Initiative is driving action in four key areas:

HARNESS THE IMPACT OF ESSENTIAL DOD PROGRAMS

Ensure sustained funding for legacy programs like the Office of Local Defense Community Cooperation (OLDCC), the Readiness and Environmental Protection Initiative (REPI), and others that support and sustain critical components of military-community collaboration.

OPTIMIZE INVESTMENTS IN DEFENSE INFRASTRUCTURE

Expand and adapt the Defense Community Infrastructure Program (DCIP) to address evolving defense community needs, targeting $150 million annually to reduce the significant backlog of projects.

MODERNIZE OUR APPROACH TO QUALITY-OF-LIFE EFFORTS

Invest in community-level programs that address key challenges for military families, including education, childcare, workforce development, and recruitment, through a program modeled after the Defense Community Support Initiative (DCSI).

ENHANCE PARTNERSHIPS

Build upon the successes achieved through the military services installation-community partnership programs to strengthen mission readiness, expand capabilities, improve efficiency and create cost savings for the military.

LEARN MORE ABOUT AMERICA’S DEFENSE COMMUNITIES

What Are Defense Communities?

Defense communities are the towns, cities, and regions that host military missions, installations, and defense industries—home to over 70% of service members and the workforce powering national security. With the fence line disappearing, bases and communities are more connected than ever, working together on critical issues like infrastructure and military family support. These efforts are driven by a network of organizations, often led by key partners that strengthen community-military collaboration.

Defense Communities & National Security

BUILDING ONE COMMUNITY

Installations and their communities are essential to national security, working together to provide military families with critical services like housing, healthcare, and education. They build resilient infrastructure, tackle challenges, and support mission readiness—all while creating strong, welcoming homes. This vital work is powered by key programs and initiatives across DoD, states, and local communities, reinforcing a shared commitment to our nation’s defense.

Key Programs Connecting Installations and Communities