History of Habitat for Humanity

Habitat for Humanity was founded in 1976 by Millard Fuller and his wife, Linda. It is an ecumenical housing ministry based on Christian principles. They have helped build over 400,000 decent, affordable houses and served more than 2 million people around the world (Habitat for Humanity International, 2011).

“What Habitat does is much more than sheltering people. It’s what it does for people on the inside. It’s that intangible quality of hope.” - Millard Fuller, Founder of Habitat for Humanity International

Sacramento Habitat for Humanity

Was founded in 1985, is a local affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International whose mission is to eliminate poverty housing worldwide and to make decent shelter a matter of conscience. SHFH is one of almost 1600 affiliates serving the United States and 90 developing countries around the world.

Once the homes are built, SHFH provides these families with a no down payment, zero interest mortgages. The mortgage is cost based, i.e., the principal amount is based on the lower of our cost to build or appraised value, and the monthly payments are determined by a formula which ensures that the homeowners’ total housing costs (principal, property taxes, and insurance) do not exceed 30% of their gross incomes (Sacramento Habitat for Humanity, 2011).

Its mission statement is: "Building affordable homes in partnership with families in need, supported by a host of volunteers, faith based organizations, donors and corporations for the betterment of our community."- Habitat For Humanity Sacramento

Volunteer Opportunities

Although they have many sponsers to donate the money and the familes that help put everything together, they always are in need of volunteers. There are many things you can do besides being out in the field building the actual home. Below is a list of the many opportunities to help.

They offer volunteer opportunities in the following areas:

• Administrative: which would consist of typing, copying, sorting, filing, packet assembly, answering phones, data entry, etc.
• Construction: they have two different options.
  • One is by appointment only, and does require some construction skills in bid packages, color schemes, contracts, plan checking, permit running, jurisdictional duties. People with skills in the following areas are also sought: Design Updates - plans/specifications; Green Building – Durability, sustainability; Field quality assurance inspections for SHFH; Warranty Coordinator.
  • The second option requires no skills, and they provide the training you will need accordingly to your job.
• Special Projects: these are based on an as needed basis, and can range from a single day's activities to more than a month's work. Individuals are needed during the week, in the evenings, and on weekends for help on these critical programs.
• ReStore: These are duties that include basic retail skills such as stocking, pricing, cleaning up, accepting donations, customer service, scheduling pickups, recycling, etc.

To get involved, you:

There are a couple things that they require before you can volunteer.

• Must be at least 16 years of age, and any volunteer under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
• Must attend a HabiTour and Volunteer Orientation & Safety Training.

If you meet these requirements or have any questions you many contact:

Laine Himmelmann: (916) 440-1215 ext. 1108 [email protected] 

After you have recieved the go ahead to volunteer here is an optional list of things you may need while working depending on what you have signed up for.

• Work Gloves
• Water Bottle
• Bag Lunch
• Sturdy shoes, preferably boots
• Comfortable clothes (you will get dirty!)
• Layers for all weather possibilities
• Sunscreen

How to Donate

"It starts with one hand reaching out to another. Hammer by hammer. Nail by nail. Donation by donation. Heart to heart.... This is what true humanity looks like." - Habitat for Humanity

Habitat for Humanity knows not everyone can donate their time, so they always welcome donations if you are not able to give your time. Anything amount is appreciated. They have a secure way of accepting payments on their page or you may go to their office to donate in person.

To make a donation, please visit the website.

Know Someone in Need?

They must meet the following criteria:

• Have family income that falls in the 30% - 50% of Area Median Incomes (Average $21,950 - $36,550 for a family of 4).
• Have a Habitat defined need for adequate shelter
• Be willing to partner with Habitat for Humanity by working 500 hours on constructing your home.
• Residence in Sacramento County for at least 1 year or a work history in Sacramento County for at least 1 year
• First time homebuyer
• Applicants must be a legal permanent residents or citizens of the US at the time of the application

We all know some people are very proud and dont like to except handouts, but if you know someone who fits this criteria and feel they deserve a break and a better life, you can contact the person below and sign them up for a family orientation. Sometimes they just need a little push to realize they've earned it and there is no shame in accepting it.

All interested families MUST first attend a family orientation before being considered.

To register for a family orientation and receive the dates and locations for upcoming orientations, please contact:

Molly Gautreaux: (916) 440-1215 ext. 1111 f[email protected] 

References

Habitat for Humanity International Sacramento, Habitat for Humanity

This report was written for Cynthia Linville’s English 20 class at CSU Sacramento Fall 2011.