Loveland Habitat for Humanity

Loveland

nter Holiday i W Newsletter

www.lovelandhabitatforhumanity.org

2010 Thrivent Home Owner Gets Her “Yes” Kayleena had become used to being told “No.” As Loveland Habitat for Humanity’s Thrivent build partner family, Kayleena had been turned down for low-income housing programs and a number of other assistance programs, being told she did not qualify. The mother of two, she knew nothing about Loveland Habitat for Humanity® and its mission to help families qualify for decent and affordable homes; that is until her Aunt mentioned it.

“I spoke with my aunt and she told me about Habitat. I went to the ReStore and got an application,” said Kayleena. “I met with Susan, the Family Services Coordinator, and she was so nice. I was not told no!”

Kayleena’s journey toward home ownership started one year ago. After she applied for her Habitat home she went through the family selection process and qualified based on her need, good credit, residency and willingness to partner with sweat equity. Although the process seemed daunting at first, Kayleena said, “everyone was so friendly.”

Kayleena has completed her 250 hours of required sweat equity.

All Habitat homeowners are required 250 hours per adult. She has also recieved extra help from the Lutheran Community.

Thrivent Financial for Lutherans is a faith-based membership

organization called to improve the quality of life of its members, their families, and their communities by providing unparalleled solutions that focus on financial security, wellness and caring for others. Thrivent Builds with Habitat for Humanity® engages Lutheran congregations, Thrivent chapters and members, Habitat affiliates, and individuals from across the United States and around the world to build hundreds of homes per year with families in need, provide mission trips for Christian outreach in local and foreign communities, and directly reduce poverty housing and homelessness around the world Sixty-five percent of the funding for this build was awarded through a grant by Thrivent Financial for Lutherans. Another 10 percent was raised by five local Lutheran churches through fund raising and donations of materials and labor.

With her dream of a home of her own nearly a reality, the excitement is building especially for her young son who cannot wait to have his own yard to play in. Plans are already underway for how the kid’s rooms will be decorated and how she will have time to spend with her great neighbors.

Meet the 2010 Loveland Habitat Partner Families!

The Archer Family

The Archer Family Jennifer raised her children as a single mom. Her priority was to be a “stay at home mom” as much as possible. This meant working jobs that either allowed her children to be with her or working while they slept once they were old enough to be home alone. These jobs were low-paying, so Jennifer was never able to earn enough to qualify for a mortgage. Jennifer is very excited for the opportunity to finally own a home and to never have to move again. Jennifer lives with her daughter, Elise and 2 year old grandson. They moved into their home in February of this year.

The MacLeod Family Jenna shared a small apartment with her toddler daughter. She prayed that her daughter would experience the comfort of a safe home and neighborhood. At the encouragement of a co-worker, Jenna applied for her Habitat home. She has been amazed at the support from the Loveland Habitat staff and on the jobsite from the volunteers. She has lived in her home since spring of 2010. Jenna says she so appreciates that her daughter now has her own bedroom and an opportunity to grow up in a loving community!

The Riley Family

The MacLeod Family

The Riley Family Jenn is looking forward to the joys of owning her own home, which she says means a shorter commute to work; planting her garden; taking care of her yard and trying out her interior decorating abilities. Jenn prefers to stay in one place. She looks forward to moving into her Habitat home and staying there for the majority of her life. She says her partnership with Habitat is definitely going to be one of the best times of her life and a positive life-changing event. Jenn hopes to move into her home later this year.

Fulfilling the Life-Long Dream of Homeownership...In 2010 You could say Grant, Manuel and Susan, Loveland Habitat’s newest partner families, are adding some unique, exciting and diverse life experiences to the Habitat fold.

As a World War II Veteran, Grant has known a life that ranges from coal mines to Opera Houses.

Manuel, a former taxi driver, and Susan, a seamstress, moved to the United States from Peru looking to improve their lives.

All three never envisioned just how much their lives would be changed by simply answering an ad in the paper and taking the advice of a son.

Living with a friend, Grant had heard about Habitat and saw a newspaper ad announcing that Loveland Habitat was accepting applications for partner families. “I simply picked up the phone and called Susan in the office,” he said. “I have never spoken with such a kind person. She has been so amazing throughout this process.” Grant continues, saying he can’t believe all this is happening to him. Especially at the tender age of 86.

Grant has seen all 48 states in the Continental U.S. As a Navy Veteran, he sailed both the Pacific and Atlantic on the SS217, a WWII submarine. As a construction supervisor, he has built support buildings for coal mines from the ground up, at times sitting in the middle of the New Mexico desert with no electricity, no

running water and kerosene lamps in case the generator went out. From the dry desert to the blue skies, he has also helped to build the international terminal at O’Hare Airport in Chicago. But a sparkle develops in his eye as he speaks of his f avorite job - the complete rebuild of the burned out Santa Fe Opera House in 1963.

Habitat family. Native Peruvians who moved to this country as permanent residents, the couple have never known a peaceful neighborhood until now. In Peru, he was a taxi driver and she was a seamstress. They tell stories of never really feeling safe in their home because of crime. Knowing they wanted better for their family, the two worked hard to be able to have their children attend CSU. One actually became a Habitat homeowner in the process.

The two performed their 500 hours of volunteer sweat equity both on the job site and in the Habitat ReStore, all while working full-time at the Marriott Hotel in Loveland. When asked what was the first thing they did when they moved in their home, Susan smiled.

“We gave thanks because this is Grant a true miracle.

We still have to

pinch ourselves!”

Life circumstances she said. “I also lead to Grant having want to open our to sell his mobile home up and share home and moving in what we have with with his friend. And others. these circumstances Habitat is made led to his application up of such generous with Loveland people. It’s like a Habitat and his lost family. We have Manuel and Susan nearly built home. been embraced in a “I just cannot very special way.” believe this is all happening to me. This Manuel also home offers such a sense of security and a expressed his thanks in a very heartfelt and sense of ownership,” Grant says. simple way. “Muchas gracias!”

It was a son who encouraged Manuel and Susan to become a part of the Loveland

Note from the Director Home Sweet Home “Home Sweet Home” is a phrase that many of us take for granted. However, with the downturn in the economy and foreclosures at a record high— it means more than ever before.

Affordable homeownership provides critical security, safety and success for families.

Yet, according to the US Census Bureau Housing Study, people in the West have the lowest home-ownership rates at 62%— compared to the highest number of home-ownership in the Midwest at 72%. This is also compounded by the fact that Colorado provides little assistance in the area of affordable housing.

Even so, Loveland Habitat for Humanity® continues to provide decent and attainable housing for families at 30-60% of the Area Median Income. In fact, we are in the finishing phases of our 92nd home. Loveland Habitat is one of the most productive builders in Loveland and Habitat for Humanity® is the eighth largest builder in the United States. We have also helped Habitat for Humanity® International achieve the ambitious goal of building more than 350,000 homes worldwide.

The only way our organization has reached such milestones during the past 23 years is through the hard work of many dedicated volunteers, staff and community support. What a privilege to serve this incredible community through Loveland Habitat for Humanity®. Pride fills my heart as I see Habitat Homeowners move into their new homes — especially during this Holiday Season.

If interested in home ownership please call the Loveland Habitat for Humanity® office at 669-9769.

Gwen Stephenson The ache for home lives in all of us, the safe place where we can go as we are and not be questioned.

Maya Angelou

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Loveland Habitat for Humanity® ReStore Revamps, Reuses and Recycles When it comes to the Loveland Habitat® ReStore, the “green” movement has been in style as long as the thrift store has been in existence. Everyday, boxes and bags of donations are taken in at the store – thanks to the generosity of the Loveland Community – that might otherwise end up in the local landfill. This adds up to tons of reused items each year, resold to raise money to build homes for Loveland Families.

Located at 5250 N. Garfield Road, the ReStore also recycles a multitude of donated items that it cannot sell. Metal, copper, clothing, cords, light bulbs and many other items go to recycling centers instead of the trash. Recently, the ReStore conducted a blue jeans recycling initiative with those donated jeans – approximately 3,000 pairs – to be reused for home insulation.

“One of the important things that we want to provide for our giving community is respect for the items donated, fair prices and a committment to respect “Mother Earth” by making recycling a priority,” says Diane Gregg, ReStore Manager.

But the recycling goes further than the donations taken in each day. Recently the ReStore built new dressing rooms to serve its clothes-shopping customer better. Many of the materials used for this construction project were recycled from Loveland Habitat’s home building scraps. The store also sells items built from the home construction leftovers, including dog houses and dog beds. s

to our wonderful customers for supporting Loveland Habitat ReStore® to the dedicated volunteers at the Loveland Habitat ReStore®! We could not build homes without your tireless efforts!

Things are “Changing” at the Loveland Habitat for Humanity® ReStore!

You might say it’s a whole new look when visiting the Loveland Habitat for Humanity® ReStore. Things are changing, or at least in part. The ReStore recently constructed changing rooms in its clothing department, a service that had been requested by customers and staff. The two changing rooms were constructed by Habitat volunteers, under the supervision of the construction crew, and look like houses symbolizing what the organization is about: providing homes for partner Loveland families.

Additionally the clothing department now features an area with individually priced items.

Through the generosity of the Loveland Community, the ReStore has been receiving donations of beautiful, highquality clothing.

“We wanted to individually price these wonderful donations in a manner that reflects their quality,” says ReStore Manager Diane Gregg. “It is truly amazing the beautiful clothes we have donated to us which in turn, helps fund the construction of homes right here in Loveland.”

Shoppers will also be even more aware of the Habitat mission through the new photo displays on the walls of the ReStore. The displays feature photos of Loveland Habitat Families and the beautiful homes they own.

In addition to shopping inside ReStore - don’t forgert to stop

by our car dealership right outside the store. Donate or purchase a great car through our car program.

Loveland Habitat ReStore and Thrift hours: Loveland Habitat for Humanity®

Shopping Hours: Mon.-Sat., 10 - 6

Donation Hours: Mon.-Fri. 9 - 5:30; Sat 9-4

970-669-7343

Loveland Habitat For Humanity® Thanks All of its Supporters!

Our organization would not be able to partner with families to build affordable, amazing homes without the incredible support we receive. We thank all of the volunteers; individual donors; churches; businesses; the City of Loveland; Habitat Colorado; Habitat International; Group Publishing and all of the grantors for their contributions. You have helped change lives now and for generations.

Habitat for Humanity® - Transforming Lives Locally and Internationally Habitat for Humanity® affiliates in Colorado have completed more than 1,000 homes in the past 30 years. It took more than 1 million volunteers and $80 million in donations of cash and materials to bring these families the safety, stability, and dignity of affordable homeownership.

During 2009, Habitat Colorado, Loveland Habitat for Humanity® and all other habitat affiliates statewide took on an initiative to build another 1,000 homes over a 3-year period for individual families in Colorado and internationally.

With an appropriate campaign theme “There’s no place like Home,” Habitat gives hope to families that they will have a place to call home.

According to recent statistics, more than 282,762 Coloradans live in unsafe and unaffordable housing conditions. To reach the goal of 1,000 homes in 3 years, Habitat affiliates are expanding our resources and strategic partnerships, while looking to create affordable housing solutions for all Coloradans and beyond.

Loveland Habitat for Humanity® is currently moving toward building its 100th home in Loveland after opening its doors to serve the community in 1987. In addition to building locally, the affiliate helps build in some of the poorest countries. For the 1,000 Homes campaign, Colorado affiliates are partnering with Habitat for Humanity® Paraguay. Paraguay was chosen as a partner for its great need, the organization’s capacity

for international engagement, and its program focus on education.

In Paraguay, Habitat for Humanity® partnered with the national teachers association. Over the next two years, the organization plans to build 600 homes in partnership with teachers and their families. The program includes the standard Habitat self-help housing model, and also incorporates a rigorous financial literacy curriculum and savings plan for participating families. By developing affordable housing and preparing teachers to become long-term homeowners, the organization is addressing multiple social factors and providing immeasurable benefit to the community as a whole.

To read recent articles about Loveland Habitat for Humanity® please visit these web sites: Iraqi Students Help Build http://www.reporterherald.com/news_story.asp?ID=28807 Putting Down Roots Article http://reporterherald.com/news_story.asp?ID=28306 The Habitat Builds Colorado Day Story http://www.reporterherald.com/news_story.asp?ID=28234 Director and Tithe Awards http://www.reporterherald.com/news_story.asp?ID=28234 Recycled Denim Insulation http://www.reporterherald.com/news_story?ID=29306

Life Changes Across the Border as Loveland Habitat Helps Build in Nicaragua The need for safe and decent housing is a worldwide challenge, one that Habitat for Humanity® International and Habitat Affiliates all over the world in 90 countries try to address every day.

Loveland Habitat for Humanity® is no exception. For nearly 14 years, Loveland Habitat staff, Board Members and volunteers in the Loveland community have been traveling to Nicaragua to help build homes for families in this very poor area of the world.

This past July, Pastor Ed Smith with Trinity Lutheran Church, along with 14 other Habitat volunteers and church members traveled to Nicaragua to build homes for 3 families. The group stayed for 10 days, constructing 2 adobe homes and 1 block house for families that numbered up to 16.

“We have been going to Somoto, Nicaragua for several years, and I always look forward to returning to the wonderful people we have come to know and serve. Our main "mission" has been and will be to build houses, or rather homes,” said Pastor Smith, who is also a Board Member with Loveland Habitat for Humanity®.

Pastor Smith also explained that they not only built in Somoto, but also in CauCali. In this small village the supplies for the Adobe homes are right there, so all construction essentially is

green. The clay for the roof tiles is found locally and baked for 36 hours. Mud and straw from CauCali is formed into 70 pound blocks that make up the walls of the homes.

He added that homeownership for people in the Nicaraguan villages is a life changing experience. And it’s life-changing for those who volunteer to help these people build.

“We all get so much out of this experience. I have made so many friends there,” he said. “Next year we already have the dates planned.”

Pastor Smith refers to next year’s trip as a purposeful “vacation.”

The dates for this coming year’s trip are June 17-26 and the cost is $600.00 plus airfare.

More information can be obtained by calling the Loveland Habitat for Humanity® office at 970-669-9769.

“No matter the location of the build site, the religion, gender or ethnicity of the homeowners or volunteers, there is a sense of authentic community that links Habitat partners.”

Jonathan Reckford, Habitat for Humanity® CEO

Thank Headline You Volunteers!

The dream of homeownership continues to be fulfilled and lives dramatically changed, largely in part to our dedicated volunteers.

A warm thanks to each and every one of you. Whether it’s sorting donations at the ReStore, greeting visitors at one of our fundraisers, putting the final coat of paint on the walls of a new home, or making important decisions as a Board Member, you are messengers of hope, inspiration and joy.

We are continually reminded of the generosity of others, as long-time volunteers quietly and sometimes in a grandiose way, show up week after week and year after year. We also have new folks added to our Habitat family regularly and we love that! Volunteering is often an opportunity for those who are between jobs to spend a few hours of their week in meaningful service to others. One of those is Tim— cheerful, flexible, and always willing to help where needed. Here’s what he had to share: “My experience at Loveland Habitat for Humanity® has been priceless. I've met lots of great new people, Professional home builders, Veterinarians, Navy fighter pilots, and everything in between. I've also learned a lot of valuable skills. But most importantly I had the pleasure of knowing I helped people out that really needed it. Many have been affected by the tough financial times. It is great to be able to lend a helping hand.”

We are so grateful for Tim, along with the many others who share our home building mission and vision for Loveland. You have taken to heart the words of Robert F. Kennedy, “Each time a man stands up for an ideal, or acts to improve the lot of others, or strikes out against injustice, he sends forth a tiny ripple of hope.” That’s what you do so well, Loveland Habitat volunteers. During the holiday season, may we all be givers and receivers of hope, joy and peace.

In addition, we’d like to acknowledge and thank the many groups of volunteers from businesses, churches and organizations who have helped us out throughout the year. So much has been accomplished through their willing hands and hearts.

Karen Murray Boston

ReStore Volunteer Coordinator/ Marketing Director

Marjie Johnson

Construction/Admin. Volunteer Coordinator

Board of Directors:

David McGraw, President Erika Sahd, Treasurer David Wilson, Secretary Jeanne Drake Barry Gustafson Wythe Hull Diana Luthi Jeff Mortensen Abby Renner Pastor Ed Smith Rob Smith Mike Weinland

Staff:

Administration/Construction Office: Gwen Stephenson, Executive Director Susan Briggs, Program Director Grey Gustafson, Construction Director Shelly Flores, Construction Supervisor Marjie Johnson, Construction Site Volunteer Coordinator Michelle Lehr, Resource Development Director Karen Murray Boston, Marketing Director Sandy Bocek, Office Manager, Construction Office

ReStore Staff:

Diane Gregg, ReStore Manager Larry Lukton, ReStore Operations Manager Rachel Gatton, Clothing Manager Kevin Pinkham, Auto Sales Brent Tonsing, Furniture Supervisor Travis Morgan, Receiving Supervisor, Key/Holder Jane Collins, ReStore Office Manager Cathy Glaser, Household Goods Manager/Key-Holder Karen Murray Boston, ReStore Volunteer Coordinator Richard Aguero, Truck Driver Lupe Espindola, Clothing Associate Lorena Rojero, Sales Associate Corey Rumfelt, Sales Associate Bill Neufeld, Sales Associate Paul Williams, Sales Associate Aren Kissinger, Patio Manager Jane Anderson, Cashier/Bookkeeping Judy Valdez, Cashier Amy Rae Zander, Cashier Susana Erskine, Cashier

Mission Statement:

Loveland Habitat for Humanity® is a non-profit housing ministry that displays the care of Jesus Christ to people from all walks of life regardless of faith. Our organization helps build simple, decent and affordable homes with people in need, while striving to make affordable housing a matter of conscience throughout the Loveland area and around the world.”

Your Gift

to Loveland Habitat for Humanity® strengthens our local economy.

By providing affordable housing options, we increase the property and sales tax base, strengthen the local workforce, reduce the wear and tear on our roadways, commuter-related congestion and air pollution and support local businesses that provide goods and services to our homebuilding program.

Thanks

to our many wonderful Board Members; volunteers at the Construction Site and the Loveland ReStore, and others who make the Loveland Habitat for Humanity® mission real around the world and in Loveland too. www.lovelandhabitatforhumanity.org

Administrative/Construction Office 1154 SE 2nd St • Loveland 80537

ReStore

5250 Garfield • Loveland 80538