Partnerships benefit Habitat’s work

What impressed me today in Spokane — other than the temperatures in the 50s — was how our Habitat local affiliates do a masterful job at taking a national initiative like Home Builders Blitz and tailoring it to fit within their local context.

Spokane Habitat for Humanity has a seven-year tradition of holding a three-week blitz build each June. This year, as in 2006, they have added homes built by professional builders to the project and have two homes being led by the Spokane Home Builders Association (SHBA) along with eight other homes being built by the organization’s regular volunteer groups. We had builders on site and we also had church volunteers, corporate volunteers and even library staff from Gonzaga University.

Speaking with SHBA executive officer Joel White in front of the two-story duplex they were building, I heard of a builders association that has a very strong relationship with Habitat where both organizations see and are realizing a mutual benefit to their partnership. I heard once again from builders who were impressed by the unity on the build site — something not seen on their day-to-day build sites.

I also had the privilege to share lunch with homebuyer Jessica English. Whenever speaking of her almost-complete house, the joy was totally evident on Jessica’s face. Jessica has nearly completed her 500-hour sweat equity commitment — something she has been working on for a year. Jessica is looking forward to moving into the home with her 3-year-old daughter, Grace. I was really impressed with Jessica’s flooring and countertop choices. Her house is stunning when you enter from the front door.

Off to San Diego for Tuesday!

-Kevin Campbell