|
Habitat for Humanity's success is rooted in the support of partners who recognize the importance of decent shelter and who help build it in partnership with those in need. Here are a few ways to extend your Habitat involvement and leave a positive impact on the lives of families everywhere.
by Rebekah Graydon
 |
|
|
As volunteers around the world build on faith every day, their efforts result in a new Habitat house every 27 minutes.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Believe:
"We live by faith, not by sight."
—2 Corinthians 5:7
Considering the scope of poverty housing, one might think his or her efforts are insignificant. However, all around the world, thousands of volunteers make a difference every day by refusing to accept substandard housing as part of their communities. As Habitat founder Millard Fuller wrote in his book No More Shacks!, "We have the know-how in the world to house everyone. We have the resources in the world to house everyone. All that's missing is the will to do it."
Believe that the problem has a solution.
Pray:
"Pray for us. We are sure that we have a clear conscience and desire to live honorably in every way."
—Hebrews 13:18
The needs and opportunities surrounding Habitat's work are varied. Here are some prayer requests:
- Safety for homeowners, Habitat staff and volunteers in areas of civil instability.
- Sufficient resources to build to the organization's capacity, and wisdom in being good stewards of those resources.
- Increased awareness among the public of the need for decent, affordable housing.
- Security of income for Habitat homeowners, so they may continue making mortgage payments.
- Habitat's capacity as an instrument of reconciliation in areas of religious conflict.
- Strength and endurance for those still trapped in substandard housing.
Build:
"Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to him, 'Go, I wish you well; keep warm and well fed,' but does nothing about his physical needs, what good is it? In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead."
—James 2:15-17
Building means more than construction work. Here are some other ways to help:
- Serve as a liaison between your church or company and the local Habitat affiliate, coordinating volunteers, recruiting supporters and communicating needs and progress.
- Help select families to partner with Habitat. Affiliates enlist volunteers to review applications, visit prospective homeowners and assist families in acquiring the necessary paperwork for applying.
- Scout for potential building sites. Throughout the United States and the world, affiliates are hard-pressed to find affordable land for building.
To find out which affiliate is closest to you, visit www.habitat.org/build.
Also, Habitat's Global Village work teams provide opportunities to further Habitat's work away from home. For more information, visit www.habitat.org/gv/.
Donate:
"Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."
—Matthew 6:19-21
Financial support of Habitat's ministry can increase an affiliate's capacity to build by funding staff positions, purchasing building materials and maintaining office equipment. You can donate by using the envelope included in this magazine, by visiting Habitat's secure online donation page (https://www.habitat.org/donation/default.aspx?ProjectID=1) or by donating directly to your local affiliate.
However, donations are not limited to monetary gifts. Professional services, such as plumbing and electrical work, and legal services, such as house closings, are required for Habitat's work as well. Also, donations of work-site lunches and tools can free funds for building materials.
Teach:
"And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable men who will also be qualified to teach others."
—2 Timothy 2:2
From sharing new carpentry skills to helping a homeowner develop a budget, teaching is an essential part of Habitat's success.
- Raise awareness of housing issues in your area by talking about them in church, by writing letters to your local newspaper and by sharing your concerns with elected representatives.
- Check for new reports on housing from organizations such as the National Low Income Housing Coalition (www.nlihc.org), Housing Assistance Council (www.ruralhome.org) and the Department of Housing and Urban Development (www.hud.gov).
- Encourage schools to teach students about the importance of volunteering.
- Participate in your local Habitat campus chapter's activities and lend your experience, knowledge and enthusiasm.
—Rebekah Graydon is assistant editor of Habitat World.
|
|
