Current Projects
Construction began on Monday, June 15, 2009 on a duplex to be built by area volunteers as part of an alliance between Habitat for Humanity International and Thrivent Financial for Lutherans. The site is located at 991 and 993 N. 53rd St. in GF.
This is the second consecutive year the area Lutheran congregations have partnered with Thrivent Builds and the Red River Valley Habitat for Humanity to provide area families with a safe, decent, affordable home. A duplex home was completed last summer after just 15 working days. Participants in the 2009 build include volunteers from 12 area Lutheran congregations and representatives from the local Habitat chapter.
Dorette Kerian, President of RRVHFH, said, “We would like to express our heartfelt appreciation for this program and all of the many volunteers who give their time to make this happen.”
Volunteers Needed
RRV Habitat needs volunteers; not only the ones who help with the actual building of the home but also volunteers for committees. There is a tremendous amount of groundwork that needs to be completed before the first nail is hammered.
Site Selection Committee
People who are interested in identifying potential sites for construction. This includes working with local government officials on acquiring land and lots for building, water and sewer hookups and working with the construction committee to be sure lots are "buildable" for a house that is suitable for a partner family. Those who like to dabble in real estate would be natural members. Others welcome too!
Construction Committee
People who have an interest in and may have knowledge of home construction. This can include surveyors, architects, people who know building codes, carpenters, concrete workers, plumbers, electricians, utility people and building supply people. There is a lot to know about building houses. If you have any knowledge at all, or if you would like some on-the job training, please join us.
Family Selection Committee
This committee is made up of people willing to interview and work with families who have made application to be a partner family with Habitat. These people will also check to make certain that the applicant families meet the criteria established by Habitat for homeownership. Working with the Family Support Committee, you will find certain joy in making what seems an unobtainable dream come true for some of these families.
Family Support Committee
People who have good "social/people" skills to work with partner families both before and after construction to be sure that the families know what is required in the area of sweat equity, to provide a record of that time requirement, and to help in the transition of true homeownership. These sponsor/advocate/friends may also help the families in the areas of budgeting and home maintenance.
Fundraising Committee
People to identify and approach potential donors (individual, church, corporate) for either cash or "in-kind" gifts of material, labor, property or support. This committee also needs people who can develop fundraising material and help with grant writing. You will be surprised to find how eager people are to give when they understand the principles of Habitat.
Public Relations Committee
People who can write articles for newsletters, and on or tow who would like to work with local media are needed for this committee. Persons interested in volunteering to serve on this committee may also speak to church groups and other groups and organizations about our projects and our mission. People on this committee help the affiliate "get the work out."
Volunteer Relations Committee
The people who serve on this committee help organize and contact other volunteers to set up time and places to work....whether in the office or on the job site. This group also keeps track of volunteer hours and sets criteria for volunteer recognition.
If you are interested in any of these committees, contact us.
