Habitat for Humanity is recruiting families

If you were to ask a Habitat partner family what it is like to partner with Habitat in building their home, you would most likely hear the words “life-changing” or “moving.”

Leaders of the organization say that’s because partnership with Habitat is not only about building a home, but it is also about getting a hand up to building a better life.

In September 2011, Habitat for Humanity of Minnesota conducted a Homeowner Impact Pilot Study to collect data on how partner families’ lives have changed after becoming Habitat homeowners.

The study looked specifically at changes in health and safety, education, community, family and personal wellbeing, and financial wellbeing. Seven Greater Minnesota Habitat affiliates participated in the study.

The results:

• More than 80 percent of respondents said they felt safer and felt their children were safer.

• 88 percent of respondents said they feel better about their children’s future.

• 73 percent of homeowners said they felt more connected to the community.

• 51 percent said they changed jobs, and of those 51 percent, 82 percent said their new job was better.

• 298 government assistance programs were being used before Habitat and only 182 programs are being used currently, which is a 40 percent reduction.

• 92 percent of homeowners said their lives were better, and of those 92 percent, 95 percent said Habitat contributed a lot or completely to the changes in their families’ lives.

Thirty families have taken the life-changing step of partnering with Douglas County Habitat for Humanity since 1997.

Habitat for Humanity of Douglas County is currently recruiting families for future homes. It’s hosting information sessions for individuals and families interested in learning how Habitat works and to hear how they may be eligible to partner with the organization to build a simple, decent, affordable home in Douglas County.

Homes will be built to meet Minnesota “green” building criteria.

Application orientation sessions will be held at the Habitat for Humanity office at 1211 North Nokomis NE, Alexandria on:

• Thursday, April 19, from 7 to 8:30 p.m.

• Saturday, April 21, from 10 to 11:30 a.m.

Anyone interested in learning about Habitat’s family selection process is encouraged to attend. Advance registration is appreciated but not required by calling Habitat for Humanity at (320) 762-4255 or e-mailing info@hfhdouglascounty.org.

Tags: local news, news, habitat, housing, recruit, families