Local Habitat for Humanity affiliates announce merger

Hilton Head Regional Habitat for Humanity and Lowcountry Habitat for Humanity have announced the merger of the two affiliates, which will begin operating as Habitat for Humanity of the Lowcountry on July 1.

The boards of directors of both organizations voted in favor of the merger, and members of each will combine to form the initial governing body of Habitat for Humanity of the Lowcountry.

Brenda Dooley, executive director of Hilton Head Regional Habitat and Barbara Thomas, executive director of Lowcountry Habitat are enthusiastic about the merger.

“We are thrilled to merge our organizations, which will allow us to serve more families and have a much greater impact in Beaufort and Jasper counties,” said Dooley, who will become the CEO of the new organization.

“The combined affiliate will be in a better position to take a leadership role in the affordable housing arena in Beaufort County, advocate in Columbia and apply for larger grant awards. Donors will retain the opportunity to designate funds to projects of their choice,” said Thomas. Both affiliates have served Beaufort and Jasper counties since 1990, building strength, stability and self-reliance for each family stabilized through affordable housing. Homeownership breaks cycles of poverty, low education, and income levels, and improves community-wide outcomes.

Beaufort and Jasper counties are home to more than 178 Habitat homes. Seeking to put God’s love into action, Habitat for Humanity brings people together to build homes, communities and hope.