essay on habitat for humanity

Habitat for Humanity and Its Activities

Introduction, habitat for humanity, reference list.

Habitat for Humanity refers to a nonprofit organization that is devoted to building simple, decent, and affordable housing affordable for homeless individuals. Most of the homes are built by volunteers and are then sold at no profit, where no interest is charged on them.

This organization was founded in 1976. The vision of this organization expanded as the experiences raised and helped to serve and promote the activities of people. By the year 2004, the habitat had built about 50,000 houses, and it is working in over 100 countries. In 2005, the habitat managed to build the 200, 000 th house where the number of people sheltered in these habitat houses is more than one million.

The families that are partnering with the habitat have to allow the affiliation of the right to the refusal were they should decide to sell their home during the period of the mortgage. These homes are only for families with children, and thus they exclude families without children.

The homeowner families are chosen according to their needs, and they should be ready to work in partnership with the habitat so that they can make the houses better places to live in. The houses are simple as they are built using the locally available materials, and this helps the volunteers to provide labor so that the houses are simple and affordable by the families that are concerned.

This helps the organization to have a partnership with the families that are willing and able to work together towards the betterment of the organization. Most of these volunteers are unskilled.

This is because they provide their service of labor without expecting any payment in return, and therefore they do not need to have the skills in construction, but there are professional tradesmen who also offer their services in the organization. Churches also offer sponsorship of these houses and provide a large amount of labor from the believers. ( Mary, 2005)

There are also corporations and businesses that provide financial assistance to the projects or also provide building materials, and through such assistance, the organization is able to continue well with its operations.

In a country like Kenya the habitat for humanity has full package of sponsorship which includes: the direct costs that are required for the construction of a house; there is need for a training of the community to administer their Partnership which is run by the local community member volunteers who are trained in the family selection, in financial management, construction, and the fundraising so that they can be able to run the organization by providing the best, and thus the houses will not be of poor shape as the volunteers have been trained; there is the expansion into new areas where they provide the opportunities for more communities and thus encourage the expansion of these organizations in its operations; and lastly they ensure that all the funds that are spent in the organization are not wasted, but it is of benefit to the improvement of this organization and the services provided by churches, and other institutions should be taken to work well in the organization where they provide the best services for the expansion of this work of construction.

In Kenya, there are four habitats for humanity, Tier sponsorship programs that ensure the people are provided with the best services, and they include: there is a group that deals with the provision of cement for construction.

Such group ensures that all the time there is plenty of cement that keeps the work in process; there is another group that ensures that the direct costs for the construction of simple, decent and affordable houses this is done in terms of making sure the purchases and the delivery of the construction materials is done at the right time and also ensures that there is a skilled laborer and the supervision is made to make sure work is done well.

A group that ensures there is a full package of the program and the group that deals with the costs that are involved in the construction of houses. (Mary, 2005)

The habitat has a special program that helps in the restoration of houses after they have been damaged by catastrophes like earthquakes. This is done to ensure that the organization does not collapse due to the lack of houses.

The families are required to show the ability to pay the required about so that they can be able to qualify for being in partnership with the habitat, and thus a family has to meet all the requirements that are required so that they can be provided with these houses.

The credit and the income requirements help to ensure the habitat applicants are able to maintain the purpose of the house. This means that to be provided with such a house, one should have met all the requirements so that the habitat will not have problems of dealing with the families in partnership with the organization. (Mary, 2005)

The non- profit organizations serve the people in public, and they develop from pioneers and founders where the labor is mostly from the volunteers who are ready to provide their labor to the organization.

There is a need for the boards that are believed to provide the basic rights to the individuals in terms of ensuring that people are not affected by the poor performance of such organizations in that they provide the needs to such people on the basis of their cultural and social services.

The nonprofit organizations have phenomena that are unique and empowering in that they fight for the rights of individuals such as the rights to be given your rights as a refugee.

Such organizations have to force the government to provide the law that covers even the non- citizens and thus such organizations are being discouraged, as the government claims such organizations change the laws of the country as they have to fight the way through for the unable so that they can feel and do their activities just like the rest in the country.

The habitat makes sure the volunteers are the most used to provide labor for the construction this is because if they get someone who is skilled then it will not be possible for the families that are homeless to work in partnership with the habitat as their will be a high cost that is required to be paid to these workers.

The non- profit organizations are legally constituted with the primary goal to support or actively engage in activities of public or the private interest without the monetary profit purposes whereby such an organization has to ensure that the people’s rights are catered for all the concerned people. They do not generally operate to generate profits, and they can legally and ethically trade at a profit.

Such organizations are restricted to the use of the funds that result from commercial enterprises. These organizations are constrained to the extent of generating their income. This is because the government views such organizations to be out of benefit to the country as they operate to assist the people.

They are funded by the donations from the private, public sectors, or both, and they attain the tax-exempt status that is not inherent to its formation. Such organizations offer charities or services to the people, and they can be called the foundations that have large stock funds.

The workers are mainly volunteers who are ready to provide their services to organizations. There is also the involvement of skilled people, but they are mainly the retired who offer their services and provide the organization with the best work for its further operation.

These organizations have members, and they are controlled by its members who elect the board of directors, the board of governors, or the board of trustees, and they have a delegate structure that allows for the representation of the groups. (Mary, 2005)

This board is responsible for ensuring that people get their services at the right time, and it is of the highest standard where the people value to have these organizations as they work in a better way than the government organizations.

Such organizations face problems like: the capacity-building whereby such organizations have to rely on external funding so that they can maintain their operations, and the changes in the sources of revenue have an influence in the reliability of these organizations whereby they are able to hire and retain staff and also create programs.

Such funding is not reliable and therefore most of the organizations collapse due to lack of funds to keep their operations been in the right standard this problem leads to failure of working effectively in providing the services to the people and thus such organization will have to depend on the government for assistance to be able to retain its operations.

The founders affect the organizations in such a way that even if the employees or the volunteers want to make expansion in the project scope and new things they are not able, and therefore the organization ends up in remaining at the same level of development whereby the services will not be available for all the people, and things like new technology will not be applied. Founders should give allowance for the workers so that they can invent new things that will lead to the expansion of the organization, and therefore people know what is taking place in the modern world. If an organization is not able to expand in terms of technology and other modern things, then such an organization will not be able to provide the best services based on modern changes. Such organizations are always with the aim of ensuring that the best services are provided to the people through making it clear to the people that they offer the services that will benefit them in cases where the government is not ready to provide due to problems affecting the nation. (Mary, 2005)

They operate; having the basic needs of people been the first item that is to be achieved so that everyone is able to live. Due to the pressure from these organizations, the government will find ways of fighting the operations of these organizations, but they are not able because they act as links to the aids of the country.

This is because such organizations have links with the world outside and therefore assist the government in providing the basic needs of these people. The non- profit organizations are of benefit to these people were by people are given homes that are of lower cost, and also they are willing to provide the service without the requirement of the need of interest in return for the assistance that they get from such organization.

In order to attain the purpose of the organization, one should have the consideration on the starting basis. In starting any organization one should have a mission statement that involves the guidelines like the need to have the organization; the statement should be based on the development of the organization; there should be the description of the organization basing the statement on the primary benefits and the services to the people; the groups of people who will benefit from these services; the values that will guide on how the organization will operate; and how you would like others to view the organization.

Before starting an organization you need to think about it first so that you are able to know whether the organization will benefit the society or the nation and then have a consideration on the fiscal sponsorship that will be able to jump-start your organization in terms of considering the sufficiency of the resources, the skills that are required and the needs that the community requires.

This will ensure that the organization will benefit the community with the needs they do not have. The purpose of an organization could be based on the needs of the society, whereby one has to base the organization’s operations on making the needs of the society readily available. (Jason, 2004)

This can be achieved by making sure that before starting an organization then there is need to have legal guidance where one is able to do much in ensuring that incorporation of the things that are required in the organizations like the tax exemptions are met and thus be able to run the organization without facing many problems.

One should be able to share the available resources in providing the needs to the concerned this will ensure that low costs are incurred and thus the organization will not collapse due to lack of funds but if one does not consider the resource availability it means that they start the organization regardless of the costs of getting the resources and thus the working of this organization will be affected because they will find out that they spent more in providing the needs to the society that could be cheaper when the available resources were incorporated for the production.

The organization should be able to change its operations based on the current changes in the world this is to make sure that the organization is not left behind providing the services that are outdated due to the fact that it is being fixed to its operation the only thing that is required is to make the organization in such a way that it allows new invents to be imposed as soon as they are recognized.

The volunteers will not be in a fix to change the working standards of such an organization if it is not based on the founder’s syndrome, where no changes are allowed due to the fact that the founder had a certain mission that he or she does not want to be changed. This makes the workers have a negative implication for the organization. This is because they are not given time to make changes to the organization, and thus their working is affected.

To know the purpose of the organization, a program that acts as a guide in building of that board, training about the basic skills in the management and the leadership, the conduction of the strategic planning, the development of a program and the marketing plan helps one in understanding the basic financial and tax management practices this makes the planner aware of the proper functioning of the organization in the tax structure status that will benefit that organization to be able to function well without fears of having problems in lack of funds.

The staff and the volunteers should provide the best services to the organization with little supervision so that the management will have time for that organization’s further development in improving its working areas. (Jason, 2004)

The organization should be able to identify complex issues and solve them successfully. This is to make sure that the problems that affect the organization are dealt with at the right time so that it does not affect the functioning of the organization. There is a need for strategic planning so that one is able to know how the organization will work in time to come.

To develop a strategic plan, it depends on the nature of the organizational leadership, the culture, complexity, size, and the expertise of that organization.

A goal-based planning is the most common and it starts with the vision of the organization, the goals to work towards the mission of the organization and the strategies that are applied in achieving these goals this helps the planner to be sure of what is expected of him in such an organization so that running of the organization is effective.

The issue-based strategic planning starts with the examination of the issues facing the organization, followed by the strategies that are used to address the issues and then the action plans. Strategic planning is of great importance to the organization in that it gives a clear definition of the purpose of the organization through the establishment of the realistic and the objectives of that particular organization. (Jason, 2004)

It also helps in the communication of the goals and the objectives. It develops a sense of ownership of the plan whereby one is able to know the changes to make in the organization so that it meets the targeted goals. It ensures that there is an effective use of the resources in the organization so that the workers know how to use these resources in the right way for the organization not to face losses due to the misuse of these resources.

There is the provision of the base from the progress that is measured and established so that in case of a change, then one is able to switch to such changes that are experienced in the organization. One is able to bring his or her efforts in the organization so that they ensure the proper performance of such an organization, and this means that one will be able to offer the best services to the organization.

A clearer focus of the organization is created whereby the worker is sure of the workings of the organization and the benefits that it offers to the concerned this helps the society in knowing what the organization provides and the operation of such organization in terms of ensuring the services are provided to that group of people.

The vision of any organization depends on the people’s needs that are required to be fulfilled, and thus the planner will provide satisfaction to the organization management were by the vision of the organization is met. The productivity of the organization is increased.

This is due to the fact that there will be no wastage of time from the operations of this organization as there is a plan that is followed by the workers. Using the plan, the organization is able to solve the major problems that it faces in its operation, and through this, then it is able to provide the best services for the community and in the fulfillment of the basic needs of such people. (Jason, 2004)

In the scheduling of the plan, then it should be based on the nature and the needs of the organization that are based on the group of people they relate with and the external environment. This is done so that they ensure the rapid changes that are to be faced are worked on well.

The purpose of any organization is achieved if the workers of the organization are ready to provide the services to the concerned group and the planning of such an organization is based on the needs of these people this ensures that the organization work towards achieving its vision that is clearly set in the plan so that the organization is able to operate without delays.

Any organization works with the view of ensuring that people achieve the needs that they require at the right time and at the lowest cost that is affordable and mostly based on the resources where they should be the simple and the top of the most available resource provide that particular service to the people.

Therefore the planning should be done regularly due to the fact that there are changes in every field, and thus a plan for last year can not be applied this year due to these changes, and this ensures the organization achieves the best as it is kept updated all the time.

There should be the implementation of the plan that ensures that the visions of the organization are followed and change is made where it is applicable. The organization is able to have financial resources from several areas depending on its operation. The nonprofit organization has to be funded from external sources were by for better functioning; it requires like one million that will fund its operation.

The working of these organizations to properly meet the needs of the people requires that they have to get assistance in terms of aids from the developed countries, and this creates a proper relation with these countries. The organizations can attain the tax-exempt status whereby it can exempt itself from the income tax and other taxes so that the financial donors may have a claim back of the income tax paid on the donations that have been made.

There is a recognized legal entity where the organizations seek the tax-exempt status with respect to its income tax obligations. This means that such organizations have to meet the conditions that enable them to achieve this tax exemption status.

There are federal taxes that have to be paid by these organizations, and there is no assurance for the payment of these federal taxes.

The habitat has to ensure that its members are able to attain the houses at the minimum mortgage costs were by the main organization’s concern is to make sure the homeownership of such families is not interfered with by the high costs, and thus they use the simple and available materials.

The mortgage payments are deposited in the locally available fund for humanity so that they are able to make further constructions using this fund.

The organization should ensure that it has the best resources, whereby it will not require moiré funds as they have to get the funds for the proper operations. In the case of an organization like the habitat, the amount that is paid is used to allow the operation of this organization without the need to get more funds as assistance.

In order to work effectively, then it requires about $ 80 so that it can provide the materials that are available and construct these houses at a lower cost where they provide many houses at the same time, and this helps in keeping the organization going. (Jason, 2004)

Habitat is an organization that is of great help to the society because it makes sure that the homeless are provided with houses at an affordable cost, and also the resources in these areas are used in the right way.

This also ensures that the society is able to cater to the people in terms of ensuring that they get the services at the right time, and those mainly who are not able to build their own houses are catered for in making sure that they get the houses at the lowest cost.

Organizations mainly the non- profit cater to the needs of the people in that they ensure that the basic needs are provided. Such an organization provides needs like the right to stay in a country and carry out your activities and also other things like houses at a lower cost. The organizations are based on the needs of the local people who have no access to the needs due to their state of being unable.

Habitat for Humanity ReStores – A good deal for you, your community and the Environment. (n. d.). Habitat for Humanity.

How a Habitat for Humanity Home is Built. (n. d.). Habitat for Humanity.

Volunteer with Habitat . (n. d.). Habitat for Humanity.

Cite this paper

• Chicago (N-B)
• Chicago (A-D)

StudyCorgi. (2020, January 6). Habitat for Humanity and Its Activities. https://studycorgi.com/habitat-for-humanity-and-its-activities/

"Habitat for Humanity and Its Activities." StudyCorgi , 6 Jan. 2020, studycorgi.com/habitat-for-humanity-and-its-activities/.

StudyCorgi . (2020) 'Habitat for Humanity and Its Activities'. 6 January.

1. StudyCorgi . "Habitat for Humanity and Its Activities." January 6, 2020. https://studycorgi.com/habitat-for-humanity-and-its-activities/.

Bibliography

StudyCorgi . "Habitat for Humanity and Its Activities." January 6, 2020. https://studycorgi.com/habitat-for-humanity-and-its-activities/.

StudyCorgi . 2020. "Habitat for Humanity and Its Activities." January 6, 2020. https://studycorgi.com/habitat-for-humanity-and-its-activities/.

This paper, “Habitat for Humanity and Its Activities”, was written and voluntary submitted to our free essay database by a straight-A student. Please ensure you properly reference the paper if you're using it to write your assignment.

Before publication, the StudyCorgi editorial team proofread and checked the paper to make sure it meets the highest standards in terms of grammar, punctuation, style, fact accuracy, copyright issues, and inclusive language. Last updated: September 21, 2020 .

If you are the author of this paper and no longer wish to have it published on StudyCorgi, request the removal . Please use the “ Donate your paper ” form to submit an essay.

The Habitat for Humanity International Review Essay

Introduction, the organization’s basic social, legal and political and economic environment, the organization’s managerial, financial and operational issues, a gant chart example for habitat for humanity, impact of potential change factors and the impact on functions of management.

The organization chosen for analysis is Habitat for Humanity International. It is a non-governmental, not-for-profit institution that provides housing services at an affordable rate to persons who cannot afford them using conventional monetary approaches. The company is located in Georgia but has affiliates all around the world; it started in 1976.

The most pressing economic issue that this company deals with is variant inflation rates. For one to qualify for a home, they need to demonstrate that they can meet the obligations of the mortgage loan offered by Habitat for humanity. Usually, those estimates are made in such a manner that they would cover all the costs associated with home building. In the US, these estimates are made in the home currency; however, recipients of Habitat for humanity homes in other countries must include the adjustment for inflation. However, if those countries are going through periods of economic turmoil and high inflationary pressures, then the company’s estimates may not be as accurate. The company has also had to grapple with some financial inefficiency. In cases where staff members involved are located very far from targeted building projects, travel expenses and other staff needs may be much higher than anticipated and this implies that mortgage payments made are not comprehensive enough to cover them; resources are constrained. Also, the organization has to deal with access to funds for the projects. However, it has resorted to creative means to achieve this such as the habitat Restore arrangement in which building materials are donated and then used by the company. It has also used campaigns by musicians like Bon Jovie and prominent personalities such as former US President Jimmy Carter (Habitat for Humanity Intl., 2010).

The social environment is also full of challenges and successes for this organization. Every time a natural or man-made disaster occurs, affiliate branches for Habitat for Humanity groups need to be revamped in order to be better able to meet the needs of their local communities. Sometimes housing needs can supersede organizational capabilities in such areas. To cope with those challenges, the company has used creative methods like assembling building materials in affiliate areas and then taking them to disaster-hit regions. The company is affected by its diverse members because sometimes the goals of its international groups may differ from the parent organization and this has caused a lot of tension between groups. Also, there is the problem of reaching low-income and poor groups who are most in need of decent housing. These groups may not be able to afford the mortgages set by Habitat for Humanity thus beating the very purpose of creating the company. Most of the time, such groups come from poor countries and this may result in an underrepresentation of certain parts of the world by the firm.

Lastly, Habitat for Humanity must also contend with some legal issues. For instance, not-for-profit organizations are affected by different laws and regulations depending on the countries targeted. Consequently, their ability to act is highly dependent on the favorability of the legal environment. Furthermore, the management and administration of this organization are sometimes debatable given the fact that it is a special interest nonprofit organization. In other words, some legal tussles have arisen between the company’s board and founder. The organization is bound by agreements that require nondisclosure but the latter individual had been accused of dispensing out too much information to the public. Because this was presumed to breach his legal obligations, he was eventually released from the firm (Habitat for Humanity Intl., 2010).

Project management: Habitat for Humanity can be viewed as a combination of projects. Therefore project management is indispensable to this company. The company often uses different methods to raise money for its projects and this requires different strategizing. For instance, in developed nations like New Zealand, ten percent of proceeds are donated to needy countries. It has annual programs in which volunteers can either take trips for a week or choose to go global. The manner of the building also differs because sometimes the company can build environmentally friendly homes. All these requirements create the need for different project management techniques (Hendrickson, 1998).

Project timelines: More often than not, the firm is bound by the specific needs of its client and its project goals. Sometimes, it may have a lot of homes to construct in a particular disaster-prone area and this may require very speedy work. In such circumstances, houses can be constructed within a day. Project timelines are usually assessed from the time a flow platform exists to the erection of the house in a manner that meets local building codes. Project timelines are also determined by the organization’s choice of building methods with the ‘Critical Chain’ being one of the fastest methods. Timelines can be created for placement of wall panels, door fittings, toilet fittings and painting (Koppleman & Quentin, 2000).

Critical paths and contingency: In projects designed to beat building records, chances are that all project tasks are included in the critical path. These usually occur when the building project is supposed to be completed in less than two weeks. Project completion is often put in jeopardy in case of eventualities that crop up in such scenarios. Some contingencies that the firm has instated include planning for excessive project costs, especially in distant locations. It often makes contingencies for moves made by competitors who may want to use predatory lending. Such a plan entails including a right to the first refusal in mortgage agreements made by clients.

Planning: In order to embark on any project, the firm has to plan for the construction of the house. Members must think of all the resources needed i.e. the labor and how to get them to their preferred sites. The company normally plans for ways of garnering volunteers. Immense efforts go towards planning for project financing where either internally organized charity events or set donations are made. The company also plans how it will implement the project with key activities being outlined and designated to identified volunteers.

Implementation plan contingencies: As the company builds its homes, it may have its own materials for construction but as the project unfolds, a shortage may result. It usually, makes a survey of common local suppliers such that there can be stand-by suppliers. These surveys often contribute towards implementation plan contingencies. Labor implementation contingency plans are also often made. In these circumstances, the organization may prepare for a shortage by keeping volunteers on standby or by training more members than are required for the project (Schweiger et al., 1996).

Staffing needs and tools: Staff members in any Habitat for Humanity project often require training as some of them are not qualified, construction experts. Traveling expenses must be met and in case those members will be spending a lot of time in the target location then arrangements for accommodation must be met. Because staff membership is mostly voluntary, then minimal enumeration is often made. However, others have to be paid (especially the local ones) and this must be accommodated in project cost estimates (Highsmith, 2004).

Since Habitat for humanity operates within the constriction sector, they are usually affected by technological developments as change factors. Time and time again, new and better methods for construction are being introduced and the company has to integrate these ideas from external companies. In order to respond to those challenges, the organization’s management must partner with affiliates in areas where the new technology has emerged in order to respond to it. Another key change factor is an alteration in strategy. While this company may have been created with the sole purpose of offering homes, this has changed in certain countries where projects have targeted educational facilities such as Afghanistan. Management has to alter its approaches to resources mobilization and marketing as this was a fresh introduction. Another crucial factor in change management comprised of structural constraints (Datz, 2003). The company structure at its commencement is very different from what goes on in the present. The company had to adapt to the fact that multiple projects were going on in several parts of the world and that maintenance of stringent control by the parent organization would deter project achievements. Management had to discover how to delegate some of these matters.

• Habitat for Humanity International (2010). Company website .
• Schweiger, D., Power, D., Gannon, M. & McGinnis, M. (1996). Strategic management skills. MA: Addison Wesley
• Hendrickson, C. (1998). Project management for construction . London: Prentice Hall
• Datz, T. (2003). Portfolio management. CIO magazine.
• Koppleman. J. & Quentin, F. (2000). Earned value project management . NY: PMI
• Highsmith, J. (2004). Agile project management – innovative products. NY: Pearson education
• Chicago (A-D)
• Chicago (N-B)

IvyPanda. (2024, March 19). The Habitat for Humanity International Review. https://ivypanda.com/essays/the-habitat-for-humanity-international-review/

"The Habitat for Humanity International Review." IvyPanda , 19 Mar. 2024, ivypanda.com/essays/the-habitat-for-humanity-international-review/.

IvyPanda . (2024) 'The Habitat for Humanity International Review'. 19 March.

IvyPanda . 2024. "The Habitat for Humanity International Review." March 19, 2024. https://ivypanda.com/essays/the-habitat-for-humanity-international-review/.

1. IvyPanda . "The Habitat for Humanity International Review." March 19, 2024. https://ivypanda.com/essays/the-habitat-for-humanity-international-review/.

Bibliography

IvyPanda . "The Habitat for Humanity International Review." March 19, 2024. https://ivypanda.com/essays/the-habitat-for-humanity-international-review/.

• Judicial Precedent: Donoghue v. Stevenson and Grant v. Australian Knitting Mills Ltd Cases
• Generals and Technological Advancements in Civil War
• Habitat for Humanity Organization Ethics
• Financial Statement: Habitat for Humanity International
• Habitat and Humanity in Australia
• Habitat for Humanity's Program Evaluation
• Property Taxes for Owners of Habitat for Humanity Houses
• Procedures Involved in IT Resource Contingency Planning
• Habitat for Humanity Construction Standards and Insulated Concrete Forms
• Servant Leadership: You Make the Call
• The Hero Group Company Analysis
• Levi Strauss Company Analysis
• The Omni Services INC.: Company Value
• Organization Theory & Behavior: Rondell Data Corporation
• Reflective Learning of Saudi Arabian Basic Business Industries Corporation

• Berlin Letters & Opinions
• Berlin Sports
• Cherry Hill Letters & Opinions
• Cherry Hill Sports
• Cinnaminson Letters & Opinions
• Cinnaminson Sports
• Delran Letters & Opinions
• Delran Sports
• Deptford Letters & Opinions
• Deptford Sports
• Haddonfield Letters & Opinions
• Haddonfield Sports
• Mantua Letters & Opinions
• Mantua Sports
• Marlton Letters & Opinions
• Marlton Sports
• Medford Letters & Opinions
• Medford Sports
• Moorestown Letters & Opinions
• Moorestown Sports
• Mt Laurel Letters & Opinions
• Mt Laurel Sports
• Mullica Hill Letters & Opinions
• Mullica Hill Sports
• Palmyra Letters & Opinions
• Palmyra Sports
• Pinelands Letters & Opinions
• Sports – Pinelands
• Sicklerville Letters & Opinions
• Sicklerville Sports
• Voorhees Letters & Opinions
• Voorhees Sports
• Washington Twp. Letters & Opinions
• Washington Twp. Sports
• Williamstown Letters & Opinions
• Williamstown Sports
• HS Football Preview
• South Jersey Real Estate
• • 08037 Hammonton
• • 08071 Pitman
• • 08108 Collingswood
• • Merchantville
• • Burlington County News
• • Camden County News
• • Gloucester County News
• • Special Sections
• South Jersey Sports Weekly
• Read Current Issues online

• Letters & Opinions
• HS Football Review
• SJ Real Estate
• Classifieds
• SJ Sports Weekly
• Send a letter | press release | event
• Get Newsletter
• Print subscription

Habitat for Humanity is maximizing its impact

Gloucester County’s chapter of Habitat for Humanity takes the phrase “building from the ground up,” to heart.

In the literal sense, Habitat for Humanity builds affordable housing for low to moderate income partner families. Once selected, the families have a mandatory 350 hours of equity time where they assist in building the house and go to financial education classes before buying the house from Habitat for Humanity at cost with a zero percent mortgage.

In addition to building housing, Habitat for Humanity began building ADA compliant access ramps for disabled residents of Gloucester County. They have built approximately 25 ramps since starting in 2016.

“We’re trying to help everyone that we can,” executive director Tony Isabella said.

On Oct. 18, Habitat for Humanity was scheduled to host their 44th “habitation,” which is a housing ceremony where the home is dedicated to the family and the community comes together to welcome the new family to the neighborhood.

“The good thing about this is since 2012 we’ve built 18 homes and 23 ramps. What I’m saying is as we get bigger and better at what we do, we’re actually moving forward in our capacity to build and help people,” Isabella said.

What makes Habitat run at peak performance is their volunteer base. By not having to pay a construction crew, it keeps the cost of the house low for home buyers, thus allowing the nonprofit to help as many people as possible. According to gc-habitat.org, construction sites are open for volunteers on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to noon. Interested volunteers can sign up on the website to donate their services.

While the website explicitly says no level of experience is required to volunteer on a construction site, for those who would rather donate money or goods that option is available in Habitat for Humanity’s ReStore. ReStore is a thrift store located in Pitman, which has new and used appliances, furniture, building materials, home decor and more. The store is open Tuesday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Volunteers to work in the store can sign up online at gc-habitat.org.

Donations to the ReStore are always accepted, too. If you or someone you know has a couch, blender, tools or anything that fits the above description, call ReStore at (856) 256-2004.

Isabella raved about the importance of ReStore to Habitat’s mission.

“All the money generated from ReStore goes directly to paying all of our administrative expenses,” he said.

In a nutshell, this means any money donated will 100 percent go toward building houses and ramps, the nonprofit’s mission.

“When a donor donates money to us, I can assure them every dollar of the donation is going directly to our mission. If someone gives me $100, it goes directly to buying wood, nails, whatever is needed to build a house,” Isabella added. “That in and of itself is a huge thing. Money donated doesn’t pay my salary, the light bills, the insurance, it goes to the mission. (ReStore) is important and will continue to be.”

For Habitat, building from the ground up means soliciting money through fundraisers such as their annual golf outing in June, selling goods at an extremely discounted price at the ReStore and having a strong volunteer base to help them build houses and ramps. These fundraisers help accomplish their goal of helping as many people as possible. This is evident by their ability to build 18 houses and 23 ramps in the past seven years; their current model maximizes their potential to do so.

For more information about Habitat for Humanity or to volunteer, visit their website gc-habitat.org.

• habitat-for-humanity

‘A taste of home’

Washington township calendar, williamstown calendar, palmyra school district wins state-aid appeal, marlton calendar, voorhees calendar.

Newspaper Media Group is your news, entertainment, music fashion website. We provide you with the latest community news, insights and happenings in your town.

Contact us: [email protected]

POPULAR CATEGORY

• Cherry Hill News 7767
• Moorestown News 7122
• Haddonfield News 6950
• Marlton News 6166
• Mt Laurel News 5882
• Voorhees News 5450
• Medford News 5443
• Tabernacle News 3840

© 2024 - Newspaper Media Group

• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Use

  Take 10% OFF— Expires in h m s Use code save10u during checkout.

Chat with us

• Live Chat Talk to a specialist
• Self-service options
• Search FAQs Fast answers, no waiting
• Ultius 101 New client? Click here
• Messenger  

International support numbers

For reference only, subject to Terms and Fair Use policies.

• How it Works

Learn more about us

• Future writers
• Explore further

Ultius Blog

Sample mla creative essay: habitat for humanity.

Select network

The following creative essay, written by a professional sample essay writer , shares both a business and historical analysis of Habitat for Humanity,  and the writer's own experiences with the organization on a first-hand basis.

My experience with Habitat for Humanity

This is a bit personal for me. I was on the board for Habitat for Humanity (“Habitat”) in my local area. A volunteer position that I loved, which fit my personality like a soft leather glove. It provided me with the opportunity to do a number of things that the foundation needed, and there was no end to the flow of activity, or the feeling that I was truly helping someone in need. After a number of months with the philanthropic organization, I discovered that my employer required that all volunteer work had to be approved. Of course, I submitted my paperwork, never giving it a thought. Perhaps a month or so later, I received a letter indicating that I could no longer volunteer for the charity because it would represent a conflict of interest. I cannot convey the level of shock that I experienced on receipt of that writing, in fact, I requested that the determination be reconsidered, though the outcome was the same. I was forced to quit my relationship with Habitat , a pain that I have in fact, not gotten over even today, as tears well up in my eyes, even now. So it is with great love and affection that I speak about the housing ministry that escaped me.

How the organization began

Habitat for Humanity International was started by Millard and Linda Fuller in 1976 (“The History”). The non-profit organization was founded for the purpose of providing basic, quality, low cost housing to low income individuals the world over. As with many global entities of substance, the program started with a simple idea – partnership housing – where those who needed basic shelter could partner with volunteers who could help them achieve their dream of decent housing. It all started at Koinonia Farm , which was a Christian community located near Americus, Georgia, not too far from the hometown of President Jimmy Carter. Koinonia Farm , founded by scholar Clarence Jordan in 1942, was an interracial plot where a community of believers shared their faith through work, service, study, fellowship and community (“A Brief History”).

The Fullers visited the farm in 1965, and soon Jordan and the Fullers developed the conceptual beginnings of Habitat for Humanity , as the foundation for helping those who were in need of obtaining basic housing for themselves and their family (“The History”). The philosophy was that there would be no profit obtained as a result of the building of homes, and no interest would be applied to the mortgage loans. The cost of lumber, bricks and construction materials would derive from The Fund for Humanity , a revolving fund. The Fund’s resources accrued from organizational fund-raising, monthly payments made by homeowners, and loans with no interest affixed, given by foundation supporters. The Fund for Humanity would continuously refresh, through the various deposit sources and would serve to build additional homes in the future (“The History”).

Building the first homes

Long before the days of crowdfunding sites , donations for the building of homes came from churches, organizations, and philanthropists from across the nation. Koinonia developed forty two half-acre plots for homes in 1968 (“The History”). Four acres formed the basis for a community recreational area. The Habitat for Humanity model, where the homes built were sold to impoverished families for no profit or interest, was born. After Jordan’s sudden death in 1969 (“A Brief History”), the Fullers and others continued his legacy through advancing the progress of the organization (“The History”). In 1973, the Fullers broadened the focus of Habitat , and moved to Mbandaka, Zaire, which is now called the Democratic Republic of Congo. The objective was to provide affordable shelter to 2,000 individuals in need. It took the Fullers three years to complete this task, but once they did, they returned home to America (“The History”).

Millard and Linda gathered with supporters to discuss the birth of Habitat for Humanity International (“The History”). The world renowned organization is an American icon symbolic of what can happen when people put their minds, hearts and faith together to solve the essential problems of mankind. When the Fuller’s neighbor and fellow Christian, President Jimmy Carter and his wife embarked on a one week trip to New York City, called the Jimmy Carter Work Project (“Project”), numerous volunteers joined them to renovate a nineteen-unit apartment building, completed in July of 1985 (“Carter Work Project”). The Carter’s involvement in Habitat for Humanity sparked national awareness, dramatic levels of publicity, and an increase in satellite programs nationwide (“The History”). In fact, the Carter Work Project has had 32 annual events since 1984.  The 33rd Project event will be held in Memphis, Tennessee this year. Unfortunately, the 2015 event scheduled for Nepal had to be cancelled, partially because of the devastating earthquake Nepal experienced in April of 2015 , and the safety risks for the volunteers arising from the civil unrest affiliated with the institution of a new constitution in the country (“Carter Work Project”). The Embassy warned that services that would normally be available to help in an emergency would be severely curtailed due to fuel shortages and border blockages. Project leaders were mindful that the resources projected to be consumed by the 1500 volunteers scheduled to attend, would have a harsh impact on limited supplies for those in dire need.

Habitat for Humanity today

Habitat has been the source of affordable housing for over 6.8 million people since 1976 (“The History”). In addition, it has provided volunteers and supporters an amazing framework for living their faith through doing good works for their fellow man. Habitat for Humanity has associated affiliates around the world (“Where Habitat”). Headquarters are located in the United States. In addition, national affiliate offices are located in Canada, Europe and Central Asia, in the Asia Pacific region, in Latin America and the Caribbean, and Africa and the Middle East. The national offices partner with local community level Habitats , offering guidance and management. The community level and national offices are independent non-profit organizations, that work within the Habitat Affiliate Covenant , but which coordinate fundraising, site determination, family qualification and review, construction and loan servicing under the district banner ("Habitat for Humanity Affiliates").

Home ownership qualifications

Families are part of the building process on their own homes in conjunction with volunteers (“Through Shelter”). Part of their payback is the investment they make in sweat equity (“What is Sweat Equity”). Sweat equity is the contribution the new prospective homeowner makes by means of effort and toil. It is an ownership interest measured by hard work contributed to and invested in the building project. Habitat homeowners often invest hundreds of hours in sweat equity during the building of their home . The sweat equity that the homeowner invests is not limited to the building of their own house, but can also come in the form of helping others to build their homes, taking classes to ensure the owners fully understand the financial aspects of home ownership, working at Habitat for Humanity ReStores , and more (“Through Shelter”). 

Although qualification varies from affiliate to affiliate, in New Haven, Connecticut, for example, potential homeowners must demonstrate there is a real individual need for housing. Applicant references and personal statements are often reviewed at this stage. The prospective owners have the ability to pay the resulting mortgage that will arise as a result of the build, and have a proactive willingness to be a Habitat partner ("Requirements for Homeownership”). A New Haven applicant is required to give a minimum of 400 hours of sweat equity with respect to the building of homes, 100 hours by the primary, 60 hours per week, and comply with other sweat equity requirements; live in a neighborhood where builds are occurring; and take homeownership classes. 

Short and long-term volunteer programs

Habitat for Humanity International has a variety of ways that people can volunteer their time and services ("Volunteer with Habitat"). Individuals seeking volunteer opportunities can help in their own communities, or can participate in trips for a period of one or two weeks across the nation or worldwide. Volunteer opportunities exist at local build sites and also at ReStores. Habitat trips are available, both long and short term, for volunteers through the Global Village or through the RV Care-A-Vanners . In addition to these programs, there are also special volunteer programs, including Women Build , Youth Programs , Veterans Build , Home Preservation , and Thrivent Builds with Habitat for Humanity . There are also other service opportunities at Habitat , like the International Volunteer Program, U.S. Volunteer Program, National Service: AmeriCorps and VISTA , and the Disaster Response Program ("Volunteer with Habitat").

How to become an affiliate

The best way to become an affiliate is to contact a local office near you. They can help you begin the process and answer many of your formal and informal questions. Habitat has an affiliate search engine that you can use to identify local offices. You can also find out more by contacting Habitat for Humanity International by phone, email or snail mail. Most states have support organizations that will assist new U.S. affiliates to service more people, with technical and training aid, to develop resources, and for disaster relief assistance and support.

The "Women Build" program

Habitat for Humanity offers an unbelievable home building program for women who want to help, while also developing construction skills (“Women Build”). What is amazing is that no experience is necessary with the Women Build program. You can learn a skill and help mothers and children facing the housing crisis. Throughout the year there are special Women Build volunteering opportunities across the country. 

RV Care-A-Vanners

Are you an RV lover? Habitat for Humanity offers an opportunity called RV Care-A-Vanners , to volunteer while you travel the United States and Canada in your RV ("RV Care-A-Vanners."). What fun! These volunteers work on many projects, including home construction, working on home interiors, renovation work, finishing work or disaster relief programs. For those who do not want to work construction, there is also office work, sponsoring opportunities, fundraising, and build site “gofer” work. Are you a keynote speaker, or think you are? You can make presentations to civic groups, churches and media.

In addition to building new homes...

In addition to the many things Habitat already does, they also make repairs and renovate existing homes; get involved in community revitalization efforts; advocate for fair housing policies; help with clean up through disaster recovery; restore and resell household appliances furnishings and materials; and provide microloans for international home improvement. If you want to live your faith, Habitat for Humanity International offers so many opportunities to transform your thoughts into reality. Take steps to explore the possibilities, because your heart will soar.

If you liked this post by one of our professional writers, learn more about us and the features we offer .

Works Cited

"A Brief History." Koinonia Farm. n. d. Web. 31 May 2016. https://www.koinoniafarm.org/about/ .

"Carter Work Project History: 1984-1989." Habitat for Humanity. Habitat for Humanity® International. n. d. Web. 31 May 2016. https://www.habitat.org/volunteer/build-events/carter-work-project/locations .

"Habitat for Humanity Affiliates." Habitat for Humanity® International. n. d. Web. 31 May 2016. https://www.habitat.org/about .

"Requirements for Homeownership Applicants." Habitat for Humanity of Greater New Haven. n. d. Web. 31 May 2016. http://habitatgnh.org/homeownership/requirements-for-homeownership-applicants/ .

"RV Care-A-Vanners." Habitat for Humanity® International. n. d. Web. 31 May 2016. http://www.habitat.org/rv .

"The History of Habitat." Habitat for Humanity. Habitat for Humanity® International. n. d. Web. 31 May 2016. https://www.habitat.org/how/historytext.aspx .

"Through Shelter, We Empower." Habitat for Humanity® International. n. d. Web. 31 May 2016. https://www.habitat.org/housing-help .

"Volunteer with Habitat." Habitat for Humanity® International. n. d. Web. 31 May 2016. https://www.habitat.org/volunteer .

"What is Sweat Equity." Habitat for Humanity® International. n. d. Web. 31 May 2016. http://www.habitat.org/blog/what-is-sweat-equity-272 .

"Where Habitat for Humanity Builds — World Wide." Habitat for Humanity® International. n. d. Web. 31 May 2016. https://www.habitat.org/where-we-build .

"Women Build." Habitat for Humanity® International. n. d. Web. 31 May 2016. https://www.habitat.org/volunteer/near-you/women-build .

Cite This Post

This blog post is provided free of charge and we encourage you to use it for your research and writing. However, we do require that you cite it properly using the citation provided below (in MLA format).

Ultius, Inc. "Sample MLA Creative Essay: Habitat for Humanity." Ultius Blog . Ultius | Custom Writing and Editing Services, 29 Jun. 2016. Web. <https://www.ultius.com/ultius-blog/entry/sample-mla-creative-essay-habitat-for-humanity.html>

Thank you for practicing fair use.

This citation is in MLA format, if you need help with MLA format, click here to follow our citation style guide.

https://www.ultius.com/ultius-blog/entry/sample-mla-creative-essay-habitat-for-humanity.html

• Chicago Style

Ultius, Inc. "Sample MLA Creative Essay: Habitat for Humanity." Ultius | Custom Writing and Editing Services. Ultius Blog, 29 Jun. 2016. https://www.ultius.com/ultius-blog/entry/sample-mla-creative-essay-habitat-for-humanity.html

Copied to clipboard

Click here for more help with MLA citations.

Ultius, Inc. (2016, June 29). Sample MLA Creative Essay: Habitat for Humanity. Retrieved from Ultius | Custom Writing and Editing Services, https://www.ultius.com/ultius-blog/entry/sample-mla-creative-essay-habitat-for-humanity.html

Click here for more help with APA citations.

Ultius, Inc. "Sample MLA Creative Essay: Habitat for Humanity." Ultius | Custom Writing and Editing Services. June 29, 2016 https://www.ultius.com/ultius-blog/entry/sample-mla-creative-essay-habitat-for-humanity.html.

Click here for more help with CMS citations.

Click here for more help with Turabian citations.

Ultius is the trusted provider of content solutions and matches customers with highly qualified writers for sample writing, academic editing, and business writing. 

Tested Daily

Click to Verify

About The Author

This post was written by Ultius.

• Writer Options
• Custom Writing
• Business Documents
• Support Desk
• +1-800-405-2972
• Submit bug report
• A+ BBB Rating!

Ultius is the trusted provider of content solutions for consumers around the world. Connect with great American writers and get 24/7 support.

© 2024 Ultius, Inc.

• Refund & Cancellation Policy

Free Money For College!

Yeah. You read that right —We're giving away free scholarship money! Our next drawing will be held soon.

Our next winner will receive over $500 in funds. Funds can be used for tuition, books, housing, and/or other school expenses. Apply today for your chance to win!

* We will never share your email with third party advertisers or send you spam.

** By providing my email address, I am consenting to reasonable communications from Ultius regarding the promotion.

Past winner

• Name Samantha M.
• From Pepperdine University '22
• Studies Psychology
• Won $2,000.00
• Award SEED Scholarship
• Awarded Sep. 5, 2018

Thanks for filling that out.

Check your inbox for an email about the scholarship and how to apply.

• Habitat for Humanity essay

Habitat for Humanity is a non-profit Christian organization devoted to provide low-income families around the world with decent and affordable houses. It is operating in more than 100 countries and already built over 260,000 houses. Founder Millard Fuller spearheaded the organization in 1976 and ever since it has taken steps in eliminating poverty housing. Fuller received numerous awards for his leadership in solving the global housing crisis. This paper examines the organization, its structure, finances, history and impact in every family that has been the recipients of Habitat houses.

Habitat displays a different kind of mission by strengthening the spirit of volunteerism. Materials for this research come mainly from annual reports, books, case studies, and the organization’s official website. For 32 years now, Habitat has given millions of people brighter hope and blueprint for a better future. Introduction With rapid economic growth and industrialization around the world, it is ironic that millions of people still do not have permanent homes. The United Nations reported that some 1.

6 billion people live in very low standard housing or slums while 100 million others have become homeless displaced by poverty, war, and natural disasters. International statistics show that the number is said to increase to 3 billion within 30 years, a scenario that presents a global housing crisis. In the United States, 95 million Americans experience housing problems where most of their income goes to housing needs. In its 2007 Annual Homeless Assessment Report to Congress, the U. S.

Department of Housing and Urban Development cited that at least 400,000 Americans are homeless in a given day living in shelters or transitional housing. In addition, a study by the National Law Center on Homelessness and Poverty estimated that at least 3. 5 million people are likely to become homeless in a year. However in a first national study on homelessness by the National Alliance to End Homelessness showed that the number of homeless people in America has reached over 700,000 wherein 44 percent were unsheltered.

Related essays:

• Homeless Mentally Ill Individuals Share How They See Their Future in essay
• Homelessness Among The Ageing Population essay
• A Look at Habitat for Humanity essay

It is within this context that Habitat for Humanity was created to give ordinary people around the world a better future, a world where everyone has a safe and decent place to live (HFH-Great Britain, 2007, p. 2). As an international non-profit organization, Habitat spreads Christianity through building affordable and sustainable houses. Since its foundation in 1976, Habitat has constructed over 260,000 houses in 100 countries sheltering over a million people in more than 3,000 communities across the globe. In addition, it has rebuilt and repaired 11,716 homes damaged by natural disasters.

In every 24 minutes, it is said that a Habitat house is completed somewhere in the world. Through the spirit of volunteerism and donations, Habitat has accomplished so much in trying to eliminate homelessness. It has received numerous recognitions for its mission including the Harry S. Truman Public Service Award in 1994 and the 1997 4th largest homebuilder in the world and America’s No. 1 non-profit builder. Founder Millard Fuller was accorded in 1996 the Presidential Medal of Freedom, America’s highest civilian award and also the Martin Luther King, Jr. Humanitarian Award.

In 1999, he was named the most influential homebuilder of the 20th century by Builder Magazine. The organization is widely supported by various governments, churches, community groups, companies, and individuals. Well known personalities and celebrities have lend their hands in promoting the mission/vision of Habitat. In 1984, former US President and Nobel Peace Prize laureate Jimmy Carter and wife Rosalyn joined Habitat through the Jimmy Carter Work Project. The presence of Carter has given Habitat the much needed attention and visibility in carrying out its works across the globe.

In 2005, Fuller was replaced as Chief Executive Officer by Jonathan Reckford due to unsettled disputes. He and his wife founded a new organization called the Fuller Center for Housing. For Fuller, the housing crisis can be resolved. This is not an impossible problem, this is a solvable problem. We have the money, we have the know-how: all that’s lacking is the will to do something about it (Goodrich, 2005, p. 2). History The story of Habitat has a humble beginning in southern Georgia when Millard and wife Linda transferred in 1965 to Koinonia Farm, a small Christian farming community.

The couple established strong partnership with the farm’s founder and Pastor Clarence Jordan in giving the community, particularly those low-income families, affordable houses through a non-profit, no interest system. Millard called this financing scheme “the economics of Jesus”. In 1968, a 42 half-acre land was laid out for the housing project in Koinonia. Expenses for the constructions were coursed through a revolving Fund for Humanity, donations, and fund raising activities. To reduce costs, family beneficiaries provided labor in building their own houses as well as from other volunteers.

At this stage, the concept for Habitat for Humanity was born and the first Habitat house model was built. As the news of its positive outcome grew, more money poured in for the project from across the country. Seeing that the idea was very successful, the Fuller tried to replicate the project in developing countries. The couple went in 1973 to Zaire, now called the Democratic Republic of Congo, where they implemented the project building 80 houses for 2,000 people. After three years, they returned to the United States to set up an organization that would cater to the housing needs of low-income American families.

The Fuller were convinced that their concept could be practiced anywhere in the world. Together with some close associates, they instituted Habitat for Humanity International whose mission is to work in partnership with God and people everywhere, from all walks of life, to develop communities with God’s people in need by building and renovating houses, so that there are decent houses in decent communities in which people can live and grow into all the God intended (Kwock, Gordon, & Payumo, 2003, p.

3). For 29 years, the Fuller led the organization into a phenomenal growth that made the organization a household name and became one of the most trusted brands in America. It has sparked nationwide interests, attracted volunteers everywhere, and developed strategic alliances from all sectors of society. Today, it has more than 2,300 local affiliates worldwide in charge of house constructions, raising funds, and screening beneficiaries.

Habitat’s housing ministry is guided by the following principles: demonstrate the love and teachings of Jesus Christ, advocate on behalf of those who need shelter, focus on shelter by building and renovating simple, decent and affordable houses, engage the broader community through inclusive leadership and diverse partnerships, promote dignity through full partnership with Habitat homeowners and future homeowners, and promote transformational and sustainable community development. (HFH, 2008, ¶1). The Founder

Born in January 3, 1936 in Lanett, Alabama, Millard Fuller was a self-made man becoming a millionaire at the age of 29. He graduated with a law degree at the University of Alabama and became a successful entrepreneur. He had lived a very prosperous lifestyle. However, his preoccupation with work has led him to reevaluate his life as his achievements have taken its toll on his health and nearly ruined his marriage. He took drastic measures to change his values and directions by renewing his Christian faith.

With wife Linda, the couple sold their possessions giving some of their money to the poor and began searching for a new beginning. Their quest for a new life has led them to the Koinonia Farm. The vision of the Fuller has kept Habitat strong throughout its existence. The organization has expanded from a mere homebuilder becoming a leader of housing initiatives such as the Campus Chapter and Youth Programs, Global Village Work Camps, Summer County Initiative, Global Village and Discovery Center, and the Habitat University.

The Fuller shared some of their success stories in the many books they have written that included Love in the Mortar Joints, No More Shacks, the Theology of the Hammer, the Excitement is Building, A Simple, Decent Place to Live: The Building Realization of Habitat for Humanity, More Than Houses: How Habitat for Humanity Is Transforming Lives and Neighborhoods, Bokotola, and Building Materials for Life, Volumes 1 to 3. Furthermore, Millard Fuller received several achievement awards and over 50 honorary doctorate degrees for taking the lead in fighting poverty housing.

How working on a Habitat for Humanity project helps restore your faith in mankind

S tepping onto a Habitat for Humanity work site is a delight to the senses. As I put on my hard hat and safety glasses Thursday, I immediately started taking in the rhythm of hammers pounding on nails, electric saws buzzing as they made precise cuts, house leaders yelling out measurements for those cuts and volunteers chatting as they worked together to put all the pieces in place.

No matter which direction I looked, people were in a constant state of motion and they looked genuinely happy to be doing so. When I stepped onto the work site for the Meadows at Plato Price development, I experienced a true sense of community.

Habitat for Humanity International this week hosted its big annual build in Charlotte for the first time since 1987. The nonprofit planned to build 27 homes near the airport in west Charlotte in a week, with the help of 900 volunteers from all over.

Thursday I had the opportunity to be one of them, as a volunteer on house number 14. House leader Mike Masto put me on roofing duty. After taking way too long to secure myself into a safety harness I was handed a hammer and an apron that I filled with fistfuls of nails, then climbed a scaffolding to the roof.

This was my third visit to the site in four days. On Tuesday, a lot of progress had been made with framework in place, walls secure and trusses for roofing constructed and waiting at the ready to be raised. When I walked through the area Thursday, all of the houses had roofing efforts in progress.

Masto gave excellent instruction on nailing down the synthetic roofing felt that he had just rolled out. Nails were to be placed along the trusses so it was not only secure to the roof, but also the frame. Roofing underlayment, or felt, is what lies between the shingles and the roof sheathing, or roof deck, which is typically either oriented strand board or plywood (in this case it was the latter). It’s installed directly on the roof deck and provides a secondary layer of protection from the elements, including rain, snow, and wind. Luckily the weather this week has been impeccable.

This was not my first time wielding a hammer, so that experience was not new. However, the satisfaction that came with knowing each nail I was driving into the roof was going to eventually be part of a finished home for a family in need made the task all the more meaningful.

“It’s really important for us to be part of this,” Masto said about himself and colleague, Ryan Dennison, a house leader for the site next door. Both men used to be site supervisors for Habitat, so they had the construction experience. When asked to be house leaders for this event, Masto said it was an easy yes. “It’s so fun to be part of this again,” he said.

While there is plenty of hard work going on during this event, there is also a lot of fun. Everyone is incredibly friendly, with a ready smile and ready to help. Even though several of the volunteers have no previous construction experience, I would never have been the wiser because of how efficiently everyone executed their given task. One of the volunteers, Brett Perrine, from Boston, was helping install plywood to the roofing trusses and said, “We’re now professionals; or at least we feel like it!” Thursday was Perrine’s first day on site. Had he not provided that information, I might have assumed he and another volunteer working alongside him, Eric Wille, were indeed professionals.

At one point while on the roof of house number 14, I took a moment to take in the full scope of what was happening all around me: humanity at its best. There is an overwhelming sense of optimism when you see hundreds of people coming together to make several families’ dreams come true. If you are ever in need of reassurance that there is still kindness in this world, then step onto a Habitat for Humanity worksite and let the harmonious echos of hammers remind you that it indeed exists.

Melissa Melvin-Rodriguez is a visual journalist for The Charlotte Observer.

©2023 The Charlotte Observer. Visit charlotteobserver.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

What does home mean to you?

National writing contest for grades 4, 5 and 6.

The contest is now closed! Thank you for participating. Winners will be announced in May.

Entries by Province

Be the first to know when we announce the winners, grand prize.

$30,000 Grant + iPad + Pizza Party

$10,000 Grant + Tablet + Pizza Party

All Entries

Each entry results in a $10 donation to a local Habitat

Thank you for supporting Habitat for Humanity Canada through the Meaning of Home contest.

Grades 4, 5 and 6 students across Canada are invited to submit a poem or essay explaining what home means to them. It’s a great way for students to engage in an interactive and fun way, and it teaches youth the importance of safe, affordable housing.

Sign up for the Meaning of Home email list and we’ll make sure you stay in the loop.

Our Sponsors

Founding sponsor.

Award Sponsors

One of my students who didn’t know she was a writer can now confidently say she is. She was a runner-up in the 2020 contest and was able to direct money to a Habitat for Humanity project in our community. This contest is one of a kind and changes so many lives. Janet Teacher

Spread the word

The more entries we receive, the more money is raised for families in need of affordable housing!

• Newsletters
• Help Center
• Metro Atlanta
• Georgia News
• Legislature
• National & World News
• AJC Peachtree Road Race
• 2024 Election
• Trump Georgia case

Atlanta consumer guru Clark Howard reflects on 100th Habitat for Humanity home

Credit: Steve Schaefer /

Since veteran money expert and broadcaster Clark Howard began volunteering for Habitat for Humanity in the early 1990s, he has hung doors, planted flowers, painted walls, stripped caulk, and laid foundation. You name it, he has probably done it.

Known for his prowess in personal finance and consumer tips, he wouldn’t exactly describe his do-it-yourself skills as scaling the same heights. To his wife Lane Howard’s frustration, he has never been particularly handy around the house.

“I’m just not any good. But I get here and everything’s broken down into teeny bite-size jobs. And you’re actually doing it,” Howard said Friday as he crossed the living room of his most recent Habitat home in the Brown Mills community in the southeast of Atlanta.

On Saturday, the 68-year-old was back in the Orchard Knob neighborhood to dedicate that home, his 100th, as well as two others he has helped sponsor and build. City and state officials, friends and family lined up to celebrate him reaching the milestone.

Howard has done much more than just get his hands dirty. He is known for his frugality (“I’m cheap. Just really thrifty,” he said) and was reluctant to reveal exactly how much money he has dedicated to the non-profit, which has a unique first-time homeowners program. Still, he said it runs into millions of dollars.

He has built homes in Phoenix, Arizona and traveled to Joplin, Missouri after a big tornado hit. He’s built homes in Tulsa, Oklahoma and the city of Valdosta in southern Georgia. The whole time, he’s raised homes with an army of volunteers to help low-income people realize their dream of home ownership.

According to Atlanta Habitat, 84 of his 100 homes are in Atlanta.

At the event on Saturday, Jonathan T.M. Reckford, chief executive officer of Habitat for Humanity International, thanked Howard for using his platform to put people in new homes.

“This is so desperately needed at a time where Atlanta, like so many cities in the country, used to be affordable and is not so much anymore,” he said. “We have a housing crisis, and Clark and Lane, your leadership and showing what is possible when a community comes together, results in this.”

For a while, there was doubt whether Howard would be around to dedicate the new homes or summon the strength to work on his next one. Last year, he had heart surgery to fix a defective aortic valve he’s had since he was a teen but which more recently sapped his energy and left him short of breath.

“If I hadn’t had the surgery I’d be in an urn somewhere,” Howard said. “Here I am. I made it. And we start 101 in Tulsa in three weeks.”

Lane Howard said the prospect of heart surgery was “scary” and “miraculous.” Through it all, reaching house 100 was on their minds.

“His doctor had said it was a death sentence,” she said. “I think it was a great motivator for him to eat right, and get up to that point, have it done and we’re here. We’re so happy.”

After the event celebrating Howard, homeowners Tiffany Glass, Brittany Jackson and Zeroline Rogers were handed keys to the newly dedicated houses.

Jessica Martin is an earlier beneficiary of the program. She lives in a house on a corner lot just down the street from Clark’s newest home – the 95th home that the nationally syndicated radio host sponsored.

A native Atlantan who previously lived in the Mechanicsville neighborhood just south of downtown Atlanta, she is the third member of her family to live in a Habitat home after her sister and mother.

“Everyone wants to get a home. I don’t want to keep paying rent and inflation is crazy right now. I have a piece of the American pie for a fraction of the price,” she said.

Martin, who works for the custodial staff of Atlanta Public Schools and as a hairstylist and event planner on the side, said she earns about $35,000 a year.

Her payment is under $1000 a month, including homeowner’s insurance, for an interest-free mortgage, she said.

Under Atlanta Habitat’s first-time homebuyer program, prospective buyers learn how to do home repairs, take homeownership education classes and receive financial coaching – all to keep them in their homes.

They invest in so-called “sweat equity” by building their homes with volunteers and contractors. Martin said this has given her a deep connection to her new home.

The memories of building the home will stay with her forever, she said, not least because she knows people etched personal messages on the walls before they were painted over.

“Mostly all my walls have messages. People really poured love to me, and I gave it back. We’re forever friends. My mom says Clark is like an uncle now and that he’s my mom’s brother. I’m his honorary daughter,” Martin said.

On Friday, as Howard got ready for the main event, he was still working on the 100th house. He dipped his brush into a can of brown paint, putting the finishing touches on some shutters.

Howard said the event wasn’t about him. It was about the homeowners. But he said that people mistakenly believe that Habitat is giving something away.

“I’ve had one foreclosure over the years that they tried to keep secret from me,” he said. “We put in another family in that house. They picked up the payments. This is an opportunity for a step on the ladder. It’s not a gift. The gift is the opportunity.”

About the Author

Matt Reynolds is a housing reporter for The Atlanta Journal-Constitution's local government team.

Credit: TNS

Credit: Microsoft

Credit: John Spink / [email protected]

Credit: Google Maps

Credit: Ben Gray

Credit: Bita Honarvar, AJC

Watch CBS News

Habitat for Humanity brings housing hope to East Bay community

By John Ramos

April 13, 2024 / 7:25 PM PDT / CBS San Francisco

WALNUT CREEK -- The housing crisis in the Bay Area has proved a difficult and time-consuming problem to solve but, on Saturday, one well-known, non-profit builder celebrated a new development in Walnut Creek, giving  hope to those willing to put in the work.

The Spanish word for hope is "esperanza" and Esperanza Place is a fitting name for Habitat For Humanity's newest development in Walnut Creek. The organization held a welcome ceremony for the 23 families who will move into the houses they helped build next to the Pleasant Hill BART station. 

In all, the development will contain 42 new homes when completed and will be "zero net energy."  Janice Jensen, CEO of Habitat for Humanity East Bay/Silicon Valley said the two-story townhouses squeezed into a former BART overflow parking lot are an example of how much housing designs have changed over the years.

"Back in the day, we would build single-family homes," Jensen said.  "We don't do that very much any more. First of all, the land prices here are so expensive that we have to be very cognizant of what we're putting on that land."

About 80 percent of the project was built with volunteer labor. Construction manager Ben Grubb said it's amazing how quickly inexperienced people can learn the trade.

"You'd be shocked," he said. "In the first hour of the job, it's like a school house, you know? You're teaching everyone what to do.  But then after that, people come out, they're smart, they're motivated, they want to do a good job, right? So, basically, we're not the fastest builders of all time but we're very thorough and we do a good job."

"When they told us that we were selected I felt like we had won the lottery," said new homeowner Yulisa Elenes. "And having to do a lot of work was something that we were looking forward to, learning how to build your house, how to paint."

That's what Yulisa specialized in, painting the interiors of all the homes, even though she had never picked up a brush before.

"Now when I go into buildings or other people's homes, I see the paint and notice that, 'Oh, they probably need a retouch!'" she said, laughing.

The new home is a real dream come true for her since her partner Guillermo is busy full-time raising their 10-year-old son Cesar, who faces the challenge of autism.  

"This change for the future is so important for us." she told the crowd at the ceremony. "Here, I see a place for me and Guillermo, where we could grow old and take care of Cesar as long as God allows us too."

Housing advocates often say the solution to the housing crisis is to simply build more housing but that doesn't happen quickly. Esperanza Place broke ground in September 2021 and there are still 19 homes to be built.

CEO Jensen said that, just because the solution seems simple, it is by no means easy.

"Incomes have not risen, costs have skyrocketed and that creates -- it creates a problem that is very hard to overcome.  We need better public policy, we need more funding.  We need everything," Jensen said.

The need is everywhere but so is the willingness to work. Just ask the people who dream of a place to call their own.

• Habitat For Humanity
• Walnut Creek

John Ramos accidentally launched a lifelong career in journalism when he began drawing editorial cartoons and writing smart-alecky satire pieces for the Bakersfield High School newspaper.

Featured Local Savings

More from cbs news.

CHP finally clears pro-Palestinian protesters from I-880 in Oakland; all lanes reopened

Bureau of Prisons to close Bay Area women's prison at center of sex abuse scandal

Person injured after Caltrain hits vehicle that was on tracks in San Martin

Firetruck hit by 2 vehicles while helping at scene of crash in Fremont

Jacksonville's Community First invests $2 million in HabiJax affordable housing mission

Habitat for Humanity of Jacksonville recently received a $2 million investment from Community First Credit Union to help low- to moderate-income households purchase new, affordable homes.

The partnership between one of Florida's largest nonprofit homebuilders, also called HabiJax, and one of its largest credit unions created a new source of mortgage funding for HabiJax homebuyers beginning this year. This is one of the latest moves to address the city's ongoing deficit of affordable housing.

"HabiJax has spent over 35 years building quality homes that remain affordable for thousands of Jacksonville families," said Monte Walker, president and CEO of HabiJax . "This partnership with Community First helps us empower even more local families to build better futures by achieving the dream of homeownership."

The Community First-sponsored mortgages will carry interest rates "significantly below market rates," making monthly payments more affordable, according to HabiJax. HabiJax pays closing costs and there are no real estate commissions.

HabiJax  homebuyers pay a 1% down payment and volunteer to help build homes and work in the  HabiJax ReStore , a home improvement retail outlet on Beach Boulevard. That work is called "sweat equity."

Affordable housing crisis

Area families planning to buy homes "face unprecedented challenges with record-high home prices and interest rates that have doubled in the last year," said Ryan Olson, chief lending officer at Community First. "Safe, stable, quality housing is foundational to the health and well-being of our community. Through this partnership, we intend to bring homeownership back into reach for many." 

City Hall is helping the effort as well. Mayor Donna Deegan recently announced she will include $10 million in her next budget to provide loans to affordable housing developers, part of a larger private-public partnership that she hopes will raise at least $40 million in the upcoming year for the program and ultimately generate $120 million in new multifamily rental housing. 

The Community First investment in HabiJax, which is for calendar year 2024, is likely to cover 10 of the 43 homes HabiJax plans to build through the end of the fiscal year June 30. The partnership is expected to continue "in future years," but how much additional money Community First will invest "has not yet been determined," according to Kevin Collison, HabiJax director of marketing, communications and faith relations. 

Over the past three years, the nonprofit builder has also had mortgage partnerships with VyStar Credit Union , Ameris Bank , Regions Bank, and Synovus .

Resources for aspiring homeowners: Struggling to find affordable housing in Northeast Florida?

Mia Evans and her two daughters recently moved into a new VyStar-financed home on Jacksonville's Eastside , one of about 175 HabiJax built in that community. Owning a home was long a dream of the KIPP Jacksonville Public School teacher and Air Force reservist, but increasing housing costs and down payment requirements made it seemingly unattainable.

She credited HabiJax and VyStar for making her dream — a new house with new appliances and furniture, in a safe, welcoming neighborhood — finally come true.

"It has felt unreal. Walking into my home, I can't believe it's mine," Evans said. "Changes in the economy have made us find new ways to create a new way of life."

Her daughters, ages 11 and 13, finally have their own rooms, "their own personal space," and there is a park just down the street," she said.

HabiJax’s Family Selection Committee refers qualified applicants to its partner lenders based on factors such as credit score, work history and household income. "The most important question is: Which lender can provide the most affordable and appropriate mortgage for a particular household," Collison said.

Lenders' employees volunteer for HabiJax homebuilding projects; the first Community First group will join in late May, although individual staff members have volunteered previously.

Founded in 1988, faith-based HabiJax has provided housing for about 2,300 families. To apply for HabiJax housing, go to habijax.org/programs/homeownership , review program guidelines, take a short eligibility quiz and sign up for an upcoming information session.  

[email protected], (904) 359-4109

Lubbock Habitat for Humanity celebrates 2024 Capitol Build

Lubbock Habitat for Humanity completed its newest housing project, the “2024 Capitol Build," with a closing ceremony Saturday in the 2100 block of Dartmouth Street.

Lubbock Habitat for Humanity was selected by Texas Habitat for Humanity as this year’s only Capitol Build affiliate, a huge honor for the entire Lubbock community, according to Lubbock Habitat Executive Director Christy Reeves.

"This designation signifies not only a momentous achievement but also a demonstration of the need for affordable housing in Lubbock," she said, adding that the ceremony capped off more than a week of hard work by a team of volunteers and Habitat for Humanity staff.

Lubbock Habitat for Humanity was selected by Habitat Texas as the one affiliate in the state to participate in this project.

The Capitol Build project involved the building of portions of a house on the steps of the Texas Capitol building earlier this month in Austin before the home was transported to Lubbock, where it is being finished out. Ultimately, the home will me made available to an eligible Lubbock Habitat recipient.

Lubbock Habitat is still seeking funds to cover the construction costs for this house. Individuals, churches, companies and groups can donate by contacting Christy Reeves at [email protected] or by coming by the Habitat ReStore located at 3630 50th Street from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

See Habitat for Humanity volunteers help build a home in Brewster with new homeowner

What Beyoncé's mom, Tina Knowles, said during inspiring talk at Memphis Habitat for Humanity event

Beyoncé is at the top of the Billboard album chart.

In promotional art for her new release, "Cowboy Carter," she also can be found atop a proud white horse. One version of the album's cover depicts the pop star riding sidesaddle in a red-white-and-blue cowgirl outfit while brandishing the American flag.

Meanwhile, on Wednesday, Beyoncé's mother, Tina Knowles, was perched less precariously on a pink-cushioned chair on a small stage inside the Great Hall & Conference Center on South Germantown Road. She wore a streamlined black suit embellished with black fabric roses along its seams. She was sans horse, but she earned a standing ovation.

"I'm good at raising girls," she said. The line earned a knowing laugh from a rapt and sympathetic audience that did not need to be reminded that Tina Knowles is the mother of not just Beyoncé but also Solange Knowles (also a popular singer). In addition, she is essentially the adoptive mother of singer Kelly Rowland, who sang alongside Beyoncé in the group Destiny's Child, which pre-dated Beyoncé's solo fame.

Tina Knowles, 70, was in town as the guest speaker at a sold-out benefit luncheon for Habitat for Humanity of Greater Memphis . The theme of the fundraiser was "Women Build," which "is not just a great title, it's a statement of action," according to Adrienne Goolsby, U.S. and Canada senior vice president for Habitat for Humanity International. The theme was a reminder that Habitat uses mostly volunteer labor to build homes — quality, affordable houses that are purchased by qualifying first-time homebuyers via Memphis Habitat mortgages that have zero added interest.

"The work here is so important," said Knowles, who said she has helped build Habitat homes in her hometown of Houston. "It sounds like a cliche, it sounds corny, but your life is so much better" when you do what you can for people who need a boost, she said.

After her talk, which was formatted as an onstage conversation between her and WREG-TV personality Kontji Anthony, Knowles posed for pictures with some of the 300 attendees (including longtime city official and activist Gale Jones Carson, identified by Anthony as Knowles' "twin"). She said she planned to visit the National Civil Rights Museum in the afternoon, and to eat some barbecue ("I like dry rub," she said).

Latoria Taylor, local Habitat vice president of philanthropy, said the Knowles luncheon was expected to raise close to $60,000 to support the work of Habitat for Humanity of Greater Memphis.

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY OF GREATER MEMPHIS: 'A life they deserve:' Habitat for Humanity continues to change lives, 40 years on

A fashion designer, philanthropist and author (her book of "Bootylicious Fashion, Beauty, and Lifestyle Secrets" is titled, inevitably, "Destiny's Style"), Knowles grew up "really poor in Galveston, Texas," with "great parents" whose dreams for their daughter were "limited by their own experience... You can't really dream of things you haven't seen."

An older brother's girlfriend became a mentor. "She drove up in a little Miata convertible with an asymmetrical haircut and I thought, 'Oh my God, this woman is a movie star.'" Encouraged to pursue her interest in fashion, makeup, art and music rather than a safe civil service-type career, Knowles became a successful salon owner and costume designer while also helping to guide her daughters' burgeoning careers.

Her success enabled her to pursue large-scale philanthropy, launching such initiatives as the Knowles-Rowland Center for Youth, in downtown Houston. "Philanthropy is amazing, but it takes money," she said, encouraging the audience to contribute to such efforts as Habitat for Humanity but also reminding listeners that "it doesn't have to be big... start doing philanthropy in your own space."

With Valero Energy (and the Valero Memphis Refinery) as presenting sponsor, the luncheon represented the launch of a five-year plan to construct another 150 Habitat for Humanity homes in Shelby and Fayette counties, and to rehab another 1,200 to enable seniors to "age in place" — to remain in their homes, after fixes to increase accessibility for older owners with mobility issues, said Lori Humber, chief operating officer for Memphis Habitat.

Since 1983, Memphis Habitat has helped 600 homebuyers secure affordable mortgages, and completed repair projects in partnership with more than 1,100 local homeowners. "Habitat's vision is a world where everyone has a safe and decent place to live," Humber said.

EDUCATION NEWS: Cheerleaders, hard hats and a birthday: Inside Marie Feagins' first week as MSCS superintendent

If a celebrity can help spread that message, why not? Jessica Hord, vice president of brand strategy for the local Habitat for Humanity, said Tina Knowles was probably the most famous person to participate in a Memphis Habitat event since Jimmy Carter, the former president, who in 2016 labored on some Memphis-area Habitat homes with his wife, Rosalynn, and country singers Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood.

But, of course, non-celebrities are the backbone of the Habitat labor force. Hord said those who want to participate — especially women — will get a chance on the next two Saturdays: Both April 13 and April 20 are "Women Build" days.

For more information, visit memphishabitat.com .