Build Houses … Build Hope … Build Community
Habitat for Humanity celebrated an important milestone this year- the organization’s 25th anniversary at the Hard Hat and High Heels gala.
The event raised over $40,000 to continue Habitat’s mission and ministry to eliminate substandard and inadequate housing by building or restoring simple, decent, affordable houses with community partners and low-income families. The special occasion celebrated sponsors, volunteers, guests, and families and the presentation of The John Luhn Legacy Award to Kim Gabriel.
“Celebrating 25 years of service to the community, building over 275 affordable housing opportunities with low income families, providing educational opportunities for at- risk youth, and honoring the legacy and service of dedicated volunteers are major milestones for this affiliate,” President and CEO Joe Gassman says. “We hope that our reflection on these accomplishments will motivate the affiliate, its supporters and our partners to an even deeper commitment to serving our community’s affordable housing needs.”
Habitat for Humanity of Brevard County, Inc. (Habitat) is an ecumenical Christian housing ministry, which builds houses in partnership with very low-income families. The houses are sold to families through no interest loans and at no profit. Habitat holds the mortgages and recycles the principal payments to fund future houses. Construction expenses are kept to a minimum by utilizing volunteer labor, and developing partnerships with churches, businesses, and other organizations to provide cash and “in-kind” donations of building materials, services and property.
Since 1985 Habitat has served 277 families. So what will the next 25 years have in store? According to Joe Gassman Habitat’s plans include owning a bigger facility, expanding services and helping even more families in the area. One of the programs involves opening a trade school for at-risk youth to improve their chances of gaining employment.
“The program would give them experience to build a track record of loyalty so they are more competitive in the workforce,” Joe explains.
Other plans incorporate diversifying services to include critical home repairs like plumbing and roof problems for low income families and seniors. Joe estimates that these programs will double the amount of people that Habitat can serve.
Like most nonprofits Habitat’s greatest need is funding. The principal is reinvested into the building fund. Approximately $9,500 of each unit is reinvested into affordable housing to help improve the community.
“Together we are making a difference one family, one student at a time.”
Habitat for Humanity of Brevard County
(321) 728-4009
BrevardHabitat.com