The third of my three housing – related posts:
A nonprofit housing organization I have been active with throughout the years in New York State and Arizona is Habitat for Humanity. I was also fortunate to participate in a week-long project in Poland in 2019.
For me, I enjoy helping to build a home, to work side by side with the future home owner and to be present when the family cuts the ribbon and enters their home officially! The homes Habitat for Humanity constructs are solid, permanent homes for low-income people/families. An application is necessary with a process to be completed. If chosen, the adults begin their sweat-equity work towards a home. While it can take time, I have met very happy potential home owners on site putting in their sweat-equity hours after finally hearing they were selected. Many people apply, but unfortunately the need is great and cannot be met by Habitat alone. Once again the excitement of owning one’s home is such a joy to share with another person/family.
One of the best things to happen for Habitat in Humanity in Tucson, Arizona was the construction of the warehouse named the CHUCK Center, or the Connie Hillman Urban Construction Knowledge Center. Beyond those of us volunteering our time building walls for homes in the Tucson area, the CHUCK Center has a workforce development and construction training program. It’s a joy for me to build walls indoors and avoid the harsh summer Arizona heat and winter cold. The 4 house walls are eventually delivered to the appropriate site for installation there. Also at the CHUCK Center, a couple apartments will be available for AmeriCorp workers and the center provides instruction for individuals learning skills to be our future skilled construction workers.
Our local Habitat may also be helping other housing non-profits with construction of their homes to meet their program goals. Here is where I believe the collaboration between agencies/organizations needs to happen to truly solve our nation’s housing need.
Habitat for Humanity is nationwide. You can volunteer and help with construction; no skills necessary … you can learn as you go. Other volunteer opportunities within Habitat are available if you feel unsure about wielding a hammer. Check out your local Habitat for Humanity. For more information, click the links below for the national website and/or the one specific to Tucson, Arizona.
