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2021-09-24T15:10:12-04:00 2021-09-24T15:10:12-04:00 https://www.habitatmartin.org/news/detail/id/117 STUART, Fla. – Bank of America today announced a partnership with Indian River Habitat for Humanity, Habitat for Humanity of Martin County, and St. Lucie Habitat for Humanity to expand the reach of each organization’s affordable housing programs serving Treasure Coast residents.   The $32,500 invested by the bank will support each organization’s initiatives targeting different stages of the homeownership journey. Indian River Habitat for Humanity’s Neighborhood Revitalization Program will use the grant to cover the cost of roof repairs or replacements for four qualifying families in Indian River County.   Habitat for Humanity of Martin County’s grant will help fund the organization’s latest affordable housing neighborhood in Hobe Sound. Construction for the 18-home Pettway Village development is expected to begin in 2022 and will also be completed in partnership with the Martin County Community Redevelopment Agency and the Board of County Commissioners.   St. Lucie Habitat for Humanity is utilizing Bank of America’s funding to support construction and repairs costs for St. Lucie County homeowners who earn 80% or less of the area’s median income. By July 2022, St. Lucie Habitat plans to build nine new homes utilizing a land trust model, and perform 20 critical repairs.   For years, Bank of America has teamed up with Habitat for Humanity and its local Treasure Coast chapters as part of their shared mission to help members of the community achieve the dream of homeownership. With volunteer opportunities limited due to the current health crisis, charitable grants and fundraising efforts are critical for Habitat and other local non-profits to address issues such as affordable housing that are fundamental to economic mobility.   “We believe in empowering people to achieve the dream of homeownership because when more members of the community realize their financial goals, our neighborhoods are transformed and we grow as a region,” said Doug Sherman, President, Bank of America Treasure Coast. “Our partnership with Habitat for Humanity will increase access to affordable housing in areas of the Treasure Coast and create meaningful solutions for the long-term economic gaps many residents are facing.”   In addition to receiving a new home, Habitat for Humanity partner families attend classes that prepare them for homeownership and teach them valuable skills that help stabilize the neighborhoods in which they live. After classes are completed, Habitat continues to support those families with ongoing counseling.   To learn more and support these organizations and their efforts, visit https://www.irchabitat.org, https://www.habitatmartin.org and https://stluciehabitat.org.      About Bank of America: At Bank of America, we’re guided by a common purpose to help make financial lives better, through the power of every connection. We’re delivering on this through responsible growth with a focus on our environmental, social and governance (ESG) leadership. ESG is embedded across our eight lines of business and reflects how we help fuel the global economy, build trust and credibility, and represent a company that people want to work for, invest in and do business with. It’s demonstrated in the inclusive and supportive workplace we create for our employees, the responsible products and services we offer our clients, and the impact we make around the world in helping local economies thrive. An important part of this work is forming strong partnerships with nonprofits and advocacy groups, such as community, consumer and environmental organizations, to bring together our collective networks and expertise to achieve greater impact. Learn more at about.bankofamerica.com, and connect with us on Twitter (@BofA_News).   ### 2020-01-31T11:19:29-05:00 2020-02-04T11:19:29-05:00 https://www.habitatmartin.org/news/detail/id/116 Catie Wegman, Treasure Coast NewspapersPublished 6:00 a.m. ET Jan. 31, 2020 | Updated 1:17 p.m. ET Jan. 31, 2020 Habitat for Humanity will build 18 homes on Southeast Pettway Street in Hobe Sound over the next few years as part of Martin County's Gomez Affordable Housing Project. The three- to four-bedroom homes, which will cost between $140,000 and $160,000, will be built on a two-acre treed lot between Dixie Highway and U.S. 1 — about 5 miles from Jupiter Island, reportedly one of the wealthiest zip codes in the nation. Eighteen affordable homes will be built on Pettway Street between Dixie Highway and U.S. 1 in Hobe Sound. (Photo: Martin County CRA) Habitat hopes to build six houses a year, starting in a year and completing the project in three to five years, said Mike Readling, Habitat for Humanity of Martin County's director of development. Though Habitat funds all construction, the county is responsible for infrastructure such as updating roads and installing sewer lines, whose costs are not yet known, said James Clasby, the county's Community Redevelopment Agency project manager.  Some residents on Southeast 10th Street are losing their homes, and without affordable housing options in Martin County, they might not have anywhere to go. HANNAH SCHWAB/TCPALM Affordable housing needs Some area residents raised concerns about the project at a town hall County Commissioner Harold Jenkins hosted in December, including the need for it. “What we hear more than anything is why do we need affordable housing?" Readling told TCPalm. "To put it simply, we receive 400 to 500 applications (from Martin County) every year for people seeking affordable housing. The need is definitely there.” Lower-income residents are leaving the county because they can't afford to live there, Readling said. In 2019, the average apartment rental was $1,563 — up 13% from 2018, he said. There was no comparative data readily available for home values.  The latest census data shows a nearly 10% estimated increase in the county's population (2010-18), with a median annual income of $58,000, a median home value of $255,000, and nearly 11% of residents living poverty.  People shouldn't spend more than a third of their annual income on housing, so anyone below the $58,000 median income is spending too much on rentals and mortgages, Readling said.   CDL's Anna Knox paints fascia boards during a Habitat for Humanity of Martin County home build in April. (Photo: Corinne Rubal/Special to TCPalm) Density, sewer lines Doug Bernhard, who lives less than a mile from the project and has owned property in Hobe Sound since the 1980s, said he's not opposed to affordable housing, but doesn't think the county's population is decreasing due to a lack of it. “It’s not pushing people out. It’s pushing certain people of an economic strata out and bringing others in," he said, adding he thinks affluent residents promote a healthier economy. Some area residents also complained about density, but the county allows 15 units per acre, which is 12 fewer homes than Habitat will build.  “Eight or 10 homes isn’t going to change the complexion of the neighborhood, in my opinion,” Bernhard said. “I’m worried about densification. If we allow these high-density residential areas to perpetuate itself, we’re going to be caught in a jam where we don’t have enough road space." Some residents also said it was unfair they'll eventually have to pay about $10,000 to convert from septic to sewer systems while the county installs lines for the Habitat homes — possibly using their taxpayer money.  South Martin Regional Utilities does not know how much sewer installation will cost residents or the exact source of funding for the Habitat project, said SMRU Director Monica Shaner. The utility is working with Martin County to get grants and use other government resources to make sewer conversions as inexpensive as possible. It's much less expensive to install sewer lines while a new development is under construction versus after the fact, Shaner added.  “It just seems an arbitrary decision to decide winners and losers,” Bernhard said, adding the county is "picking and choosing" whom to subsidize. The County Commission approved the Habitat project Dec. 17, but it's been in the works since 2015.

2019-07-26T11:53:55-04:00 2019-07-26T11:53:55-04:00 https://www.habitatmartin.org/news/detail/id/115 Accountants, Realtors volunteer time, money to help Martin County nonprofits Corinne Rubal, Morgan Murphy and Ike Crumpler Special to TCPalmPublished 11:37 a.m. ET July 25, 2019 | Updated 11:44 a.m. ET July 25, 2019                         CDL’s Yinett Florentino, foreground, has fun in the wheel barrel with Rick Gray, left, Nancy Gray and Martin Woods during a Habitat for Humanity of Martin County home build in April. (Photo: Corinne Rubal/Special to TCPalm) Employees from two Stuart accounting firms and Martin County Realtors recently volunteered their time and money to help two Martin County nonprofits dedicated to improving lives of children and families. Caban-Rodriguez home build Staff from Caler, Donten, Levine, Cohen, Porter & Veil, P.A., also known as CDL, participated in a home build for Habitat for Humanity of Martin County. Volunteers painted, installed windows and removed debris at a construction site in Stuart. Juan and Amy Caban-Rodriguez and their two children have plans to buy the home, receiving a 30-year, no-interest mortgage. During the build, Juan Caban was on site working alongside CDL volunteers and working toward the family’s goal of 300 sweat equity hours. The home should be completed this summer.  Buy Photo Employees of Caler, Donten, Levine, Cohen, Porter & Veil, P.A. in Stuart recently participated in a home build for Habitat for Humanity of Martin County. Volunteers from the CPA firm painted, installed windows and removed debris at the construction site. The volunteer team included, from left, back row, Jeff Platt, Nancy Gray, Martin Woods, Rick Gray, and Dustin Provenzano; front row, Daniel Boring, Cherry Meola, Anna Knox, Yinett Florentino, Juan Caban, Luke Mellone and Nancy Prywitowski. (Photo: Corinne Rubal/Special to TCPalm)   “This is CDL’s first-ever build in Martin County,” said Martin Woods, CDL Tax Senior manager and Habitat Advisory Board member. “Habitat provides the model for good people to get a hand up to their dreams. We were thrilled to volunteer at this Habitat build and be a part of the Caban’s pathway to homeownership.” Krumfolz home build Carr, Riggs & Ingram, CPAs & Advisors, an accounting and advisory firm in Stuart, Palm Beach Gardens and Fort Pierce, recently participated in the Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants’ Day of Service. Buy Photo Team CRI members Joyce Ruggeri, Jamie Dunham, Karla George, April Hicks, Christy Anglim, Clarice Rieth, Kathy Miller, Cynthia Wilson, Stephanie Murray, Barbara Barbero, Danae Silver, Anita Brock, Morgan Murphy volunteer at the Martin County Habitat Women Build Day. (Photo: Morgan Murphy/Special to TCPalm)   The FICPA Day of Service is an annual statewide event for CPAs to give back to their communities. Across the state, nearly 200 CPAs with their family members and friends gathered to give back to 21 different Florida communities. Thirteen women from Carr, Riggs & Ingram, also known as CRI, volunteered at the Martin County Habitat Women Build Day helping to construct a home for the Krumfolz family. Women Build is an international Habitat program that encourages women and girls to have fun and make a difference by building homes for low-income families. Buy Photo Team CRI members Michael Crook, Joe Risse, Michael Lewis, Michael Stevens, Chris Facka volunteer for Operation 300. (Photo: Amanda Nail/Special to TCPalm)   Operation 300 Several men from CRI volunteered at an Operation 300 adventure camp for children who have lost their fathers as a result of military service. Each child is paired with a father-aged, male mentor who spends the weekend doing things with the children that they might have done with their dad. To learn more on how to get involved, visit op300.org. Martin County Realtors As the median price of homes in Martin County steadily rises each year, so too does the size and scope of the affordable-housing challenge. Fortunately, the same can be said for the dollar amount Realtors raise annually in support of Habitat for Humanity of Martin County. Buy Photo Members of the Martin County Realtors of the Treasure Coast award Habitat for Humanity of Martin County with $34,000. The money was raised at the Realtors annual golf tournament at Mariner Sands Country Club in Stuart. (Photo: Marisa Moleiro/Special to TCPalm)   In June, more than 120 members of Martin County Realtors of the Treasure Coast golfed in its annual tournament benefiting Habitat at Mariner Sands Country Club in Stuart. The $34,000 raised eclipsed last year’s previous all-time-high of $27,000. The year before that brought in $20,000. All told, $135,000 has been raised for the nonprofit by the Realtors. “We’re honored to support the efforts of Habitat for Humanity and will continue to do so however possible,” said John Gonzalez, president of the Martin County Realtors. Buy Photo CDL's Anna Knox paints fascia boards during a Habitat for Humanity of Martin County home build in April. (Photo: Corinne Rubal/Special to TCPalm) “We’re so grateful and so are our families,” said Margot Graff, executive director of Habitat for Humanity of Martin County. “Each year they’ve set high fundraising goals for the tournament and attained them. But the value goes far beyond one event." Martin County Habitat began in 1986 and has built 138 homes in Hobe Sound, Indiantown, Jensen Beach, Port Salerno and Stuart.  Describing its guiding philosophy as “a hand-up, not a hand-out,” Graff credits the recipe of preparation, personal involvement and empowerment with Habitat’s sterling success rate.   Habitat prepares candidates for homeownership through courses on budgeting and home maintenance. In addition to money down and monthly mortgage payments, Habitat requires its homeowners to invest at least 300 hours of labor into helping build their own home or the home of another Habitat family. Only once did a homeowner fall short of honoring their mortgage obligations, Graff said. Learn more at HabitatMartin.org or call 772-223-9940.

2019-07-10T09:07:11-04:00 2019-07-10T09:07:11-04:00 https://www.habitatmartin.org/news/detail/id/114 STUART - As the median price of homes in Martin County steadily rises each year, so too does the size and scope of the affordable-housing challenge.  Fortunately, the same can be said for the dollar amount REALTORS® raise annually in support of the one local nonprofit with an established record of results for overcoming economic hardship through homeownership—Habitat for Humanity of Martin County.  “We’re honored to support the efforts of Habitat for Humanity and will continue to do so however possible,” says John Gonzalez, president of the Martin County REALTORS® of the Treasure Coast. In June, more than 120 members of Martin County REALTORS® of the Treasure Coast golfed in its annual tournament benefiting Habitat at Mariner Sands Country Club in Stuart. The $34,000 raised eclipsed last year’s previous all-time-high of $27,000. The year before that brought in $20,000.  The $7,000 increase in contributions are becoming (ahem) par for the course.  All told, since adopting Habitat for Humanity as its charity of choice, Martin County REALTORS® of the Treasure Coast has raised $135,000 for the nonprofit.  “We’re so grateful and so are our families,” says Margot Graff, executive director of Habitat for Humanity of Martin County. “Each year they’ve set high fundraising goals for the tournament and attained them. But the value goes far beyond one event. There are so many REALTORS® in this community advocating all the time on our behalf as well as generously giving individually to support our mission. It’s a beautiful partnership that makes a lasting difference in the lives of local families in need.” Working with Martin County individuals and families seeking to escape substandard housing, the local chapter of Habitat prepares candidates for homeownership through courses on budgeting and home maintenance. In addition to money down and monthly mortgage payments, Habitat requires its homeowners to invest at least 300 hours of labor—sweat equity—into helping build their own home or the home of another Habitat family.  Describing its guiding philosophy as “a hand-up, not a hand-out,” Graff credits the recipe of preparation, personal involvement and empowerment with Habitat’s sterling success rate. In just over three decades, the local chapter has built 138 homes for Martin County families. Only once did a homeowner fall short of honoring their mortgage obligations.  The median sales price of single-family homes in Martin County during May was $380,000—$14,000 more than 2018 and $20,000 more than 2017 during the same month. Although great news for residents and investors, the increases also complicate the already challenging affordable-housing issue, says Gonzalez. “Homeownership, simply put, is the most reliable means available for the broadest number of people to generate wealth, establish stability and improve upon their standard of living,” says Gonzalez. “As REALTORS®, we see this daily. It’s why we travel to Tallahassee each year to fight for funding for affordable housing. Habitat for Humanity stands among the best there is at addressing this need.” A dedicated voice for property rights, Martin County REALTORS® of the Treasure Coast advocates for local, state and federal policies that advance homeowners’ priorities as well as protect such invaluable natural resources as the St. Lucie River, Indian River Lagoon and county beaches and shores.

2019-04-11T11:31:02-04:00 2019-04-11T11:31:02-04:00 https://www.habitatmartin.org/news/detail/id/112 16th Home Mortgage Paid in Full It was the summer of 1996 and Mosezella Williams held tightly to a list of goals she had written out. “I’ve always liked writing,” she said. “Someone once told me that successful people write everything down, so that’s why I wrote all my goals on a piece of paper. Because I wanted to be successful.” Mosezella attended a community event in Stuart where all kinds of organizations were represented, ready to help community residents. “I took home the Habitat application but at the time I was making $4.25 an hour at the local Checkers. I was barely making enough to feed my three daughters,” she said. Determined to accomplish all of her goals, Mosezella sought training and became a certified Home Health Aide. She came back to Habitat and attempted to purchase a house again. This time, the extra income was enough to afford a no-interest Habitat mortgage. She purchased her home in 1998 and, after 21 years of faithful monthly mortgage payments, she paid-off her home in March of this year. “It took about two years for me to go through the whole process. I remember that two volunteers came to do a home visit. I remember taking homebuyer classes. Those classes were great!,” Mosezella said. “You really don’t know anything about buying a house, let alone how to maintain it, so those classes were especially helpful. Purchasing that home, it changed everything for me. Every other goal I had on my list, I was able to accomplish. I still have the list, too, as a reminder to remain grateful to God for everything He has done for me.” Mosezella recalls overhearing her daughter’s friends asking “Is your family rich? You live in such a big, pretty house.” Mosezella’s oldest daughter served in the United States Air Force for three years. Her other two daughters work as cosmetologists. Together, they have given Mosezella six grandsons and one granddaughter. Her most favorite memory of being in her home was building it with her own two hands. “Not everyone can say they helped build their home but I can,” she said. “I was there helping to build it, helping to paint it.” In 2009, Mosezella accomplished another goal on her list, graduating with honors from Indian River State College with an Associate’s degree in Human Services. Then, in 2017, she checked another goal off by becoming an author. “It all started as a way to encourage my eldest grandson to love to read and, before I knew it, it turned into this cool project together and I decided to publish the book,” Mosezella said. Dorrance Publishing caught wind of the book and published “Nala Sky: My Siberian Husky” co-authored by Mosezella and her grandson. “Overall my Habitat experience has just been great. It has been the perfect amount of hand-up. It has opened up so many opportunities in my life and I am so grateful for my home,” she said. “Thank you.”  

2019-03-29T12:08:09-04:00 2019-04-11T12:08:09-04:00 https://www.habitatmartin.org/news/detail/id/113 Mr. StudFinder Charity Auction Raises Money For Habitat’s Women Build Home in East Stuart What started with a presentation of a gourmet dinner from a local chef and sunset cruise up the St. Lucie River ended with a pushup contest between Sheriff’s deputies and firefighters and a fresh bowl of whipped cream being passed around the audience. So went Habitat for Humanity of Martin County’s 8th annual Mr. StudFinder Charity Auction, held March 29 at the Hutchinson Shores Resort. All proceeds from the event go towards Habitat for Humanity of Martin County’s 2019 Women Build home. The live auction was preceded by a VIP party where guests and “Studs” mingled on the Hutchinson Shores Resort ocean deck. Following the seafood buffet and the kickoff of the silent auction, emcee Michael Izzolo began the live auction in front of about 150 guests. Twelve “Studs”, local businessmen who presented their business’ specialty for bids, presented their packages on stage while Izzolo amped up the crowd. This year’s bid packages included gourmet meals at the Chef’s Table and Harvest Table, Kiteboarding lessons from Next Level Watersports, a sunset cruise on a private yacht, the opportunity to drive heavy machinery and then fly in a private plane for lunch, roundtrip airfare on Southwest Airlines, a crawfish boil for up to 30 people (with a very special Beer & Bourbon bar), and spend-a-day packages with the Martin County Sheriff’s Department and the Martin County Firefighters and Paramedics. Coast 101.3 radio host Larry McKay, auctioned off a $50 gift card to Waterway Café, 2 nights at the Hawthorne Suites in West Palm and a cruise for 2 on Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line. At one point during the night, Izzolo used the natural (and friendly) rivalry between the sheriffs and firefighters to raise money for the Women Build home with a pushup contest. Harvest Table Chef Jimmy Cunningham finished the night by auctioning off an intimate dinner for six at the winning bidder’s home. While Izzolo was gathering bids and running the total higher and higher, Cunningham moved through the audience with a giant bowl, stirring up fresh whipped cream. When finished, he passed put tiny spoons so everyone got at least a taste. The Mr. StudFinder Charity Auction is an annual event to benefit the construction of the affiliate’s Women Build home. This year’s Women Build will take place in East Stuart in partnership with the Krumfolz family. For more information on Habitat for Humanity of Martin County or the Women Build home, go to www.habitatmartin.org. Click Here to see Photos from the event.

2018-12-06T14:37:38-05:00 2018-12-06T14:37:38-05:00 https://www.habitatmartin.org/news/detail/id/111 Dennis Fadden, left, Dan Brady, Sherri Westervelt, Margot Graff, John Gonzalez, and Michael Readling celebrate the Martin County Realtors® of the Treasure Coast receiving the Outstanding Group National Philanthropy Day Award.(Photo: Provided by Martin County Habitat for Humanity) Surprise Habitat nomination nets Martin Realtors big recognition at National Philanthropy Day Ike Crumpler, Special to TCPalmPublished 4:30 p.m. ET Dec. 4, 2018 | Updated 7:47 p.m. ET Dec. 4, 2018 STUART — While well-known for its requirement of sweat equity from its homeowners in the house-construction process, Habitat for Humanity of Martin County recently put “sweet equity” into a discrete effort to honor one of its key donors. And this investment paid dividends. The Treasure Coast chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals awarded the Outstanding Group National Philanthropy Day Award to the Martin County Realtors® of the Treasure Coast. The professional organization composed of nearly 1,000 Realtors® and affiliates supports Habitat as its charity of choice. In spring, the Martin County Realtors®  raised a record $27,000 for Habitat at its annual golf tournament and more than $100,000 on behalf of Habitat over recent years. “This was really a wonderful surprise,” said John Gonzalez, president of Martin County Realtors® and licensed broker and owner of Engel & Völkers Stuart. “We didn’t even learn we were nominated for anything until the last minute. And then to win — with so many other distinguished philanthropists and generous individuals on hand — was outstanding. We certainly never expected it, but we’re very appreciative.” Margot Graff, executive director of Habitat for Humanity of Martin County, nominated Martin County Realtors® for the award without notifying the organization. Days before the awards banquet, Graff sprung a last-minute invite on Martin County Realtors® representatives and hoped for the best. The Association of Fundraising Professionals keeps the identities of the award winners mum until the moment of announcement. “They’re so deserving,” said Graff. “The Martin County Realtors® of the Treasure Coast have poured their hearts into helping us, dedicating incredible time and effort toward making their golf tournament — which features PGA legend Chi-Chi Rodriguez — a huge hit on our behalf. The monies they’ve raised go a long way for helping Habitat families, and we wanted to give them some much-deserved recognition in return.” In addition to citing the corporate support for Habitat, Graff also emphasized the generosity of individual Realtors® and the commitment of manpower and volunteer time. “In the earlier days, before site regulations prevented the manual flying of trusses by volunteers, I’ve seen 15 to 20 Realtors® lift these incredibly heavy wooden trusses across the lot, raise them to some companions on the concrete block wall and secure them in place,” said Graff. “They did time and again — for scores of homes.” Gonzalez says the charity’s core mission — lifting local families in need out of difficult financial circumstances through homeownership — resonates deeply with Realtors.® “Our members love Habitat for Humanity for so many reasons,” he said. “It’s a great organization that’s well run, lean in its operations, very effective in its efforts and is steadily lifting families — and generations — out of poverty and into stability through the transformative power of homeownership.” Martin County Realtors® of the Treasure Coast's annual golf tournament raised $27,071 to benefit Habitat for Humanity of Martin County. (Photo: Provided by Martin County Habitat for Humanity) At its weekly marketing meeting, Martin County Realtors® of the Treasure Coast share the total money raised through the organization's generosity and volunteerism supporting Habitat for Humanity of Martin County. (Photo: Provided by Martin County Habitat for Humanity)  

2018-06-20T09:55:34-04:00 2018-06-20T09:55:34-04:00 https://www.habitatmartin.org/news/detail/id/109 Kathy Lockhart, For LuminariesPublished 11:17 a.m. ET June 8, 2018     (Photo: Nancy Prywitowski/For Luminaries) CONNECTTWEETLINKEDINCOMMENTEMAILMORE The Rotary Club of Stuart Sunrise completed its third Habitat for Humanity work day for 2018 on June 2. Volunteers completed the installation of windows and prepped the work site for erection of interior walls in one of two houses under construction in the Indiantown Habitat community. Habitat for Humanity builds homes in partnership with families in need of affordable and decent places to live. These families invest time in helping to build their own homes. Often there are opportunities for volunteers to work on these homes. Stuart Sunrise Rotarians and future homeowners prepare to work side by side on Habitat for Humanity homes June 2 in a Habitat community in Indiantown. (Photo: Nancy Prywitowski/For Luminaries)   Stuart Sunrise Rotarians Brenda Gerdes, left, and Ellen Peitz prep the work site June 2 at a Habitat for Humanity home being built in Indiantown. (Photo: Nancy Prywitowski/For Luminaries)  

2018-04-10T10:02:52-04:00 2018-06-20T10:02:52-04:00 https://www.habitatmartin.org/news/detail/id/110 Martin County Habitat for Humanity volunteers come from various backgrounds Nancy Prywitowski, For LuminariesPublished 6:05 p.m. ET April 10, 2018 | Updated 10:43 a.m. ET April 16, 2018    Volunteer Appreciation Week Profile: April 15 - 21, 2018 (Photo: Provided by Habitat for Humanity of Martin County/For Luminaries) CONNECTTWEETLINKEDINCOMMENTEMAILMORE There is no need to be a carpenter to volunteer at Habitat for Humanity of Martin County.  Habitat volunteers come from various backgrounds. There also are many things to be done and not all involve swinging hammers. On the construction site, Roland Cartier is Habitat's top volunteer. He worked for Pratt & Whitney as an inspector for military jet engines for 36 years. Because he has been volunteering three days a week for 12 years and has donated over 4,000 hours of time and talent, Cartier can now build a Habitat home without even looking at the plans. Top Habitat for Humanity of Martin County volunteers include Jane Ready, left, who does data entry in the Administrative Office; and John Wharton, a regular behind the counter at Habitat's ReStore. (Photo: Provided by Habitat for Humanity of Martin County/For Luminaries) RELATED STORY:  American Red Cross can hardly survive without this volunteer John Wharton is a regular behind the counter at Habitat's ReStore. He worked 38 years for Bell of Pennsylvania, then Bell Atlantic and Verizon before retiring in 2009. The proceeds from the sale of gently used building materials and furnishings helps to fund the agency's mission.  Wharton's donation of over 1,000 hours of volunteer time has helped keep the store running smoothly. Besides cashier, ReStore volunteers help to test appliances, do minor repairs on furniture and place items on the showroom floor. Data entry is a never ending job in Habitat's Administrative Office and Jane Ready has been volunteering to do it since 2010. She served in the U.S. Navy for five years and retired as a senior buyer for a high tech company in 2001. Ready volunteers twice a week and accurately inputs all volunteer hours and contact information. Because of her dedication to detail, Martin County Habitat can count Ready pulling reports for many different things.   

2018-01-11T09:29:37-05:00 2018-01-11T09:29:37-05:00 https://www.habitatmartin.org/news/detail/id/108 The Power of Purpose: The Best Nonprofits to Work For in 2017 Posted on September 26, 2017 Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window) 1K+Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)1K+ 786Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)786   These days, more and more companies are putting an emphasis on the social purpose of what they do, providing their employees with reasons to feel inspired by their jobs. Given how much time we all spend at work, this is a positive trend. But there’s also no question that nonprofits remain the clear leaders when it comes to a dedication to doing good. After all, these are the organizations which are immediately on the ground when a crisis strikes — and which continue to help out, long after the cameras leave. But even though nonprofits are rich in purpose, their impact is deeper and wider still. While “volunteer” may be the first word to spring to mind when many people think about nonprofits, the truth is that they are also employers, and account for 10.3% of all non-government jobs in the U.S. according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. That’s 11.4 million people working for nonprofits every day — considerably higher than the entire population of New York City. Whether you’re a volunteer or a paid professional, working for a nonprofit can be highly rewarding. But which of them are giving their employees the very best work experience while empowering them to serve their communities? Our data science team crunched the numbers in Indeed’s 15 million strong reviews database to find out. Let’s take a look at the answers. Habitat for Humanity leads a diverse group of frontrunners Different nonprofits enable different people to pursue their own, individual passions for service. However, when it comes to identifying the one that wins the most plaudits from employees, then Habitat for Humanity — dedicated to building, renovating and improving homes for families in need — claims the number 1 spot. In the aftermath of hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria, Habitat for Humanity has been quick to step in to prepare for what will inevitably be long periods of recovery and reconstruction. Currently the organization is in the process of assessing the shelter and housing needs in affected areas so it can create construction plans to help families rebuild. In addition, Habitat for Humanity is also working in Mexico to help families recover from the recent earthquakes. In fact, at any time the organization is active in almost 70 countries, making it at least as “multinational” as many large, for profit organizations. We also see that nonprofits which provide people with opportunities to help children are highly rated by their staff. Three of the top ten have this focus, with the Boys & Girls Club of America at #3, Boy Scouts of America at #4 and Communities in Schools at #5. Meanwhile, the Girl Scouts of the USA lands just outside the top 10 at #11. The rest of the list reveals a wide diversity of causes, including making life better for older Americans (AARP – #2), bringing together veterans to serve (The American Legion – #7), youth development, healthy living and developing social responsibility (the YMCA, #6), eliminating racism and empowering women (YWCA – #8), and providing services for those with disabilities (The Easterseals – #10). The Salvation Army, with its broad focus on everything from eliminating hunger to ending domestic abuse places 9th. In addition, some major players just missed out on the top 10. Besides the Girl Scouts, we see education charity Teach for America placing 12th, followed by the American Red Cross, Planned Parenthood and PRIDE Industries, respectively. Now let’s take a closer look at what the highest rated nonprofits are doing to keep their workers engaged and motivated. The best of the best: what they’re doing right 1. Habitat for Humanity Founded: 1976 HQ: Atlanta, Georgia Working with more than 1,400 communities around the world, Habitat for Humanity partners with people in need of decent and affordable homes. In addition to winning the overall top spot, the organization performed well across the board, and also earned the #1 ranking in our individual measures of management and culture. In reviews, employees make note of multiple opportunities to learn, supportive managers and a workplace environment that’s “fun,” yet productive and meaningful — making up for occasional long hours and what one reviewer describes as “a decent amount of red tape.” “The people you work with all believe in the value of the company,” says one employee. “That is amazing for work morale. You inevitably build friendships, as you work to support a wonderful organization. You have the opportunity to make yourself stand out, as the work environment is more relaxed than with for-profit companies. Ultimately, the work that you do is to help others; your value cannot be understated.” 2. AARP Founded: 1958 HQ: Washington, D.C. AARP isn’t just dedicated to making life better for older Americans. With the top ranking for work-life balance among non-profits, the organization is also serious about making life better for its employees. “They want the staff to be happy and work to promote a positive environment,” says a reviewer. Pay, benefits and a feeling of genuine commitment to the community are cited as positives, offsetting what one employee describes as “limited growth opportunities” in certain departments. “There is no typical day at work,” says another, adding that “as this is the nonprofit sector you will find people who are really committed to helping people over earning a paycheck, that their career is more important than the compensation for them. These are the people that I feel a bond with, as we help our community and culture to grow socially and economically.” 3. Boys & Girls Club of America Founded:1906 HQ: Atlanta, Georgia With a 100 plus year history, the Boys & Girls Club of America helps put young people on track to graduate from high school and reach their full potential. The organization stands out from other nonprofits with #2 rankings in both management as well as job security and advancement. Employees cite interesting workdays and friendly coworkers as things that make working for this nonprofit so rewarding. But reviewers are most passionate about the fulfillment they get from working with young people. Perhaps this employee puts it best: “Each day I have the opportunity to not just affect the lives of the students that I work with, but the lives of their family and possibly their descendants. I take this responsibility seriously and hold it with great pride.” 4. Boy Scouts of America Founded: 1910 HQ: Irving, Texas Dedicated to building character in future leaders, the Boy Scouts of America earned the #1 ranking for job security and advancement opportunities and the #2 spot for company culture. Whether employees are working from a desk or leading hikes through the woods, they praise the day-to-day variety of their jobs: “Every day, every week is something new and different,” says one reviewer. “I enjoy sharing my knowledge, excitement, and passion with the youth of the program. To see them grow and make a change in their community is what makes working here worth it.” Some reviewers point to an at times challenging work-life balance that results from long hours and moderate pay, but they also feel that these sacrifices are worth it. “Working with truly dedicated professionals and terrific, enthusiastic lifelong volunteers largely makes up for the life-work balance,” one employee says. 5. Communities in Schools Founded: 1977 HQ: Arlington, Virginia Communities in Schools brings resources into schools to help at-risk students stay enrolled. Reviewers say this type of work can come with a good deal of stress, but, says one employee, “management understands the hardships of working with at-risk populations, and encourages self-care as much as quality services.” And while one employee notes that the pay can be low (as with many nonprofits), the benefits, job autonomy and satisfying nature of the work means that “there is no place I would rather be.” Adds another: “Working one-on-one and building these trusting relationships is what makes this job incredibly worth it. These students love, trust and enjoy CIS and what it offers! They look for the support, they look for the encouragement but mostly they look for someone away from home, whom they can turn to, love and speak to on a personal trusting level.” For a deeper dive into employee reviews, salaries and job openings at the best nonprofits in the USA, click the banner below. Methodology: Indeed has over 15 million company reviews on workplaces around the world. The companies on this list are the most highly rated on overall employee experience (criteria includes: compensation/benefits, work/life balance, job security/advancement, management, and culture) with at least 50 reviews from August 2015 – July 2017.  

2017-12-11T10:22:40-05:00 2017-12-11T10:22:40-05:00 https://www.habitatmartin.org/news/detail/id/107 Click here to read more!     

2016-12-19T14:42:36-05:00 2017-06-26T14:42:36-04:00 https://www.habitatmartin.org/news/detail/id/105     South Florida PGA Foundation News 186 Atlantis Blvd. Atlantis, FL 33462 P: 561-729-0544   IMMEDIATE MEDIA ALERT: December 16, 2016   CONTACT: Meredith Schuler mschuler@pgahq.com   ONE DESERVING FAMILY RECEIVES A HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS THANKS TO THE SFPGA FOUNDATION   ATLANTIS, FL - After months of waiting and anticipation, the South Florida PGA Foundation dedicated its fifth home to Habitat for Humanity with this build being held in conjunction with the Martin County affiliate.  After breaking ground over ten months ago this beautiful new home is now complete just in time for the holidays.  Countless South Florida PGA Professionals, friends and staff were onsite to celebrate alongside the deserving family.   In an emotional ceremony, featuring various presentations from Habitat for Humanity staff members, the county commissioner, and numerous South Florida PGA Professionals, Tandra Islam and her family were given the keys to their very first home.  During each dedication ceremony one member of the family is asked to speak to those in attendance.  Tanjila, ten year old daughter of Tandra was the featured presenter on behalf of her family, and she wowed the crowd through her humor and gratitude.  She expressed not only her mother’s joy for this home but the joy her and her brother have, as they now have a permanent place to sleep at night.   Over the past six years, Tandra has struggled to provide her family with a safe home but not this holiday season.  After the ribbon was cut and the keys were presented, the home was opened for everyone to see.  Tanjila and her brother, six year old Safqaat showed everyone their new rooms and their yard where they plan to practice their soccer skills.   “Ceremonies like the one today are extremely humbling; these projects provide all the members of the South Florida PGA an opportunity to give back to the local community.  We are extremely fortunate to have had worked along such a wonderful family, and wish them the best as they begin their life in their new home this holiday season” stated SFPGA Foundation President Tom Wildenhaus.     For more details about the South Florida PGA Foundation and the various programs it conducts and initiatives it supports click here. To view pictures and video from today click here. 2016-09-22T10:20:22-04:00 2016-12-19T10:20:22-05:00 https://www.habitatmartin.org/news/detail/id/104 By Jill Roberts • Sep 22, 2016   Habitat for Humanity does more than just build homes, they work to build communities.   Click Here To Hear the Whole Story! 

2016-09-07T13:27:01-04:00 2016-09-26T13:27:01-04:00 https://www.habitatmartin.org/news/detail/id/103 Gil Smart: American dream comes true in Indiantown, thanks to Habitat for Humanity When Tameka Hall and her family moved into a brightly colored home in Indiantown last month, she tried to articulate what it felt like to finally own a place of her own. "Thank you for using your mind, heart and soul to help build a foundation that is strong and stable for my family and me," Hall wrote in a letter that was read aloud during an Aug. 20 dedication ceremony hosted by Habitat for Humanity Martin County, whose volunteers built the house. "I never thought I could become a homeowner, but with all of your help and God's grace, my dream became true." Turning that dream into reality is Habitat's specialty. And in Martin County, where affordable housing is in such short supply, the nonprofit's work might be more vital than ever. In Indiantown's Carter Park neighborhood, four Habitat homes were dedicated in August. Sixteen Habitat-built homes now line Southwest 173rd Drive, adjacent to the Boys & Girls Club. Work on new homes is expected to be done until at least December. By next June, Habitat hopes to dedicate four more houses, which would put the proposed 40-home development at the halfway mark. Habitat is building elsewhere, too. Executive Director Margot Graff said the charity builds eight to 10 homes per year around Martin County. Demand is intense. Last year, the program had 492 applicants. Habitat homes aren't given away. Families need to come up with an escrow down payment and must be able to afford a monthly mortgage. They must demonstrate need, must be living in substandard housing and be willing to invest 300 hours of "sweat equity" in their home. But many also need to learn what it means to be a homeowner. That means classes in budgeting, shopping, even how to be a good neighbor. "Most of the time, there's no home ownership in the whole family," Graff said. "By the time they move into the homes, they've learned a lot of skills." It's the beginning of a whole new life. And if you have long owned your own home, it might be hard to grasp how daunting this can be — and how much it can mean — to someone like Tameka Hall. Habitat isn't, and could never be, the "answer" to the affordable housing crunch in Martin County. In fact, Graff took me aback when she said that "affordable housing doesn't work for the poor." What she meant, she explained, was that no matter how low the price point, it's nearly impossible for people with poor to no credit to get a loan in the first place, let alone afford the principal and interest. Habitat is able to keep mortgage payments on the homes down via no-interest loans. And that's good not just for the homeowners themselves, but the entire community. Mike Readling, Habitat's Director of Resource Development, said Carter Park has had a "halo effect" in Indiantown. Several nearby homes in disrepair have been fixed up and repainted in the wake of Habitat's development. Often, the rap on affordable housing is that it might drag down nearby property values. Here's a case where Habitat's homes might have had the opposite effect, Readling said. And there's more to come. In addition to more homes in Carter Park, Habitat wants to begin work on another development, up to 20 homes in the Pettway area of Hobe Sound. "I need to raise $5 million this year," said Graff, whose annual budget is around $3 million. It's a lofty goal. But then again, it's a lofty mission. Here's hoping both can be fulfilled, this year and beyond.

2016-06-06T13:13:27-04:00 2016-06-06T13:13:27-04:00 https://www.habitatmartin.org/news/detail/id/102 Realtors Association Golf to benefit Habitat for Humanity of Martin County With special appearance and warm wishes by Chi Chi Rodriquez STUART, Fla., June 2, 2016 –Prestigious businessmen and women, related to the real estate profession donated their time and talent at the third annual Realtors Association of Martin County Golf Tournament benefiting Habitat's Neighborhood Revitalization programs. The sold out event was held Thursday, June 2nd at Mariner Sands Country Club, in Stuart. Players enjoyed lunch and an awards celebration with auction following.  Players were excited to be greeted by Chi Chi Rodriquez before they teed off. Mr. Rodriquez reminded everyone, “It doesn’t matter how well you play today, what matters is what you are doing to help others.”   “I’m always touched to see so many familiar faces participating in this event, and we are extremely grateful to the Martin County Realtors that are our greatest advocates and friends in the community. They understand our missions and truly want to be a part of the affordable housing solution,” said Margot Graff, executive director of Habitat for Humanity of Martin County. About Neighborhood Revitalization Neighborhood Revitalization is a Habitat for Humanity International program that encourages entire communities to make an impact by building homes, making repairs, addressing weatherization and critical repairs together. Neighbors helping neighbors About Habitat for Humanity of Martin County Seeking to put God’s love into action, Habitat for Humanity of Martin County brings people together to build homes, communities and hope. Since its inception as a not-for-profit organization in 1986, Habitat has built 121 homes and over 200 ‘A Brush with Kindness” repairs in Hobe Sound, Indiantown, Jensen Beach, Port Salerno and Stuart. Learn more at www.HabitatMartin.org or call 772-223-9940. Photo Caption Chi Chi Rodriguez kicking off the RAMC Golf Tournament 2016-03-31T13:29:17-04:00 2016-03-31T13:29:17-04:00 https://www.habitatmartin.org/news/detail/id/101 HOBIE HILER PHOTOGRAPHY Robert Simpkins, HSCC Vice President; Robert McCormack, HSCC President; Margot Graff, Habitat for Humanity Executive Director; Mike Readling, Habitat Director of Development; and Joseph Frelinghuysen, HSCC Treasurer   By Mike Reading   March 28, 2016 Hobe Sound Community Chest is donating nearly two acres of vacant land in the Pettway area of Hobe Sound to Habitat for Humanity of Martin County. Habitat plans to build up to 20 new homes in the coming years on the property. Hobe Sound Community Chest has a long history partnering with Habitat to provide affordable housing. The two organizations have worked together to build 26 new homes in the Banner Lake neighborhood in Hobe Sound since 1999. "This project not only expands the affordable housing footprint in our community, it creates a brand new neighborhood and gives our families more options on where they choose to raise their families," said Robert Simpkins, Vice President of the Community Chest board. For Habitat, the project is a continuation of the organization's move from single homebuilder to developer. Habitat for Humanity has built 121 new homes in Martin County over the past 30 years and performed minor rehabs on 193. Visit HobeSoundcommunitychest.org or HabitatMartin.org. The Pettway project follows in the footsteps of Carter Park, Habitat for Humanity's 40-home neighborhood in Indiantown. Carter Park will be almost halfway complete by the end of June. "Six years ago Carter Park was a wooded lot, much like this property off Pettway," said Margot Graff, Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity of Martin County. "We look forward to duplicating the success we have seen in Indiantown here in Hobe Sound. The difference in that community now as compared to four or five years ago is noticeable and wonderful." 2016-03-24T11:22:39-04:00 2016-03-24T11:22:39-04:00 https://www.habitatmartin.org/news/detail/id/100 2016 Habitat for Humanity Project – Martin County This year the South Florida PGA Foundation will partner with Habitat for Humanity of Martin County to build our 5th home through Habitat for Humanity.  This year’s home is located in Stuart at 3254 SE Ellendale St. / Stuart, FL  34997 and Tandra Islam will be purchasing the home for her and her two child to live in. Tandra moved to Martin County 10 years ago from Dhaka, Bangladesh. She currently works during the day for the Martin County School District as a pre-kindergarten ESE teacher. In the afternoons, Tandra works at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Martin County 10-year old and up students.  She is the mother of two children, Safqaat, 6 and Tanjila, 10.  Tandra and her children are currently living in a two-bedroom apartment, when she purchases her Habitat home, she will be the first member of her family to own her own home. When she first applied to be a homebuyer in April 2010 she was told she would have to clean up some financial issues before she could proceed. Three years later she returned and has continued through the process.  “My main hope is to be a great Habitat for Humanity homeowners and I hope to build a better life for myself and for my kids,” Tandra said. As we build this home we request the support of the local community including our PGA Professionals to help us make this dream come true for the Islam family.  Please note the following opportunities to get involved. Get Involved: Groundbreaking Ceremony: March 5th at 9:30 AM Volunteer Opportunities: April 21, 22, 26, 28 / May 11, 14, 17, 20 /  June 1, 3, 10, 14, 25 To download volunteer release forms click here If you are interested in volunteering please contact Meredith Schuler – mschuler@pgahq.com or 561-729-0684   ​

2015-11-09T15:42:29-05:00 2015-11-23T15:42:29-05:00 https://www.habitatmartin.org/news/detail/id/99 Habitat for Humanity opens second store in Martin County  12:00 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 12, 2015 | Filed in: News The former location of Carl’s Furniture at 2090 N. Federal Highway in Stuart has a new purpose, one that will help Habitat for Humanity of Martin County pay to build homes for people who need them. The 30,000-square-foot building, now a ReStore, is designed like a showroom floor crowded with sofas, lamps, front doors, washing machines, artwork and even Christmas decorations — all for sale to benefit the nonprofit organization. Delaney Readling paints the face of staff member Emily Faust during grand opening activities for the new Habitat of Martin County’s new ReStore. It’s the second ReStore for Habitat in Martin County, and it is filled with donations from contractors and others with anything you might need to refurbish, restore or redecorate a home. The new location, which opened Saturday, will eventually house the nonprofit’s administrative offices. The other location is in the Golden Gate neighborhood in Stuart. That site has become a regular money-maker for Habitat, raising about $500,000 a year for the organization. Organizers said the location had the potential to raise even more with all the generous donations, but they ran out of space. Habitat for Humanity of Martin County’s new ReStore has opened at the North Federal Highway site in Stuart that previously was home to Carl’s Furniture. It took only about two months to fill the new large store. “Our donors and Martin County are very philanthropic,” Habitat’s Executive Director Margot Graff said. The purpose of the stores is to raise money for Habitat’s programs, including new construction and rehabilitation of homes in Martin County. “Nobody gets anything for free,” Graff said about the home improvements and construction projects. In order to qualify, families and individuals must demonstrate a need for safe housing, qualify for an interest-free mortgage, partner with a mentor to learn budgeting and others skills needed for home maintenance, and complete 300 hours of sweat equity or volunteering for the nonprofit. Those sweat equity hours could either be helping build a house or making phone calls to recent donors. The need is great in the county, Graff said. “It’s endless how many people are living in substandard homes.” Last year, she said, there were 492 applications for new homes, but the organization built only 10 and repaired more than 40. The beauty of the program, Graff said, is that there aren’t any repeat customers and the projects become a community event. “It’s neighbor helping neighbor,” she said. Linda Klasek has been volunteering with the organization since 2008, offering about one full day each weekend to help with anything needed. On opening day, she was pricing merchandise and helping customers. She has even helped build 30 homes over the years. “It’s fun,” Klasek said about volunteering. “And to me, this is an opportunity to give back.” Her favorite moments with the organization are when she sees children who have never had their own room walk into their new bedrooms for the first time. That joy is infectious. “That, to me, is really special,” she said. “It’s heartwarming.” Allison Blomer, a retired physician, and Lauren Raub, a recent Florida Atlantic University graduate, both worked hard to get the new location ready. The women built wall accents, laid tile and installed baseboards. Blomer said the experience has been rewarding. “It’s a way to give back to the community who supported me in my practice,” she said. For Raub, the experience provides opportunities that might help her professionally. She graduated with a degree in architecture. “I like learning how buildings get built,” she said. For Miriam Reed, the volunteers have made the new site beautiful, and she sees it as an opportunity because the location is easily noticed. She said people started buying some of the stock before the store officially opened. Reed, a retired IBM lawyer, serves on Habitat’s board and serves on the development committee. She uses 14 years experience working in the area of planned giving at the Detroit Institute of Arts to help Habitat raise dollars. “If I believe in the mission, I have no problem asking for money,” she said. And it’s the mission that Klasek said she has watched make a difference in the lives of families. The way she sees it, Habitat for Humanity does so much more than provide people a place to live. “They’re not just giving a house, they are giving a life,” she said.   2014-08-26T12:04:35-04:00 2014-08-26T12:04:35-04:00 https://www.habitatmartin.org/news/detail/id/95 Indiantown's Carter Park wins state planning award Indiantown's Carter Park project has been selected for an American Planning Association Florida 2014 Award of Merit in the Neighborhood Planning category.     The Neighborhood Planning Award recognizes projects that demonstrate innovative planning principles and measures that create sustainable neighborhoods that have lasting value. Carter Park is the first combined environmentally sustainable and affordable housing development in Martin County. Funded in part with a grant from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Martin County built an innovative stormwater treatment project at the heart of this community that reduces pollution, and cleans the waters that flow into our estuaries. The project was possible thanks to a public-private partnership between Habitat for Humanity of Martin County, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Martin County, the Martin County Board of County Commissioners and the Martin County Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA). The convergence of vision, policy and innovation resulted in 40 new affordable housing lots, a new 22,000-square-foot urban Boys & Girls Club, and a stormwater treatment system that reduces pollution from a 256-acre watershed within the Indiantown CRA. Martin County is honored that generations of families will call Carter Park home. Representatives from Martin County as well as Habitat for Humanity of Martin County will attend the awards ceremony in September.  

2014-07-16T11:23:48-04:00 2014-07-16T11:23:48-04:00 https://www.habitatmartin.org/news/detail/id/94 The Castro Family celebrates the dedication of their new home in Carter Park with Habitat volunteers and the Indiantown community.    It’s a record-setting year for Habitat for Humanity of Martin County.   The non-profit organization is reaching new heights by investing more than $1.2 million in home construction throughout Martin County. Since August 2013, Habitat has closed on 12 homes – two rehabilitated homes and 10 new homes – spanning Hobe Sound, Indiantown, Port Salerno and Stuart.   In addition, Habitat has invested in the preservation of 22 homes in Port Salerno by assisting with exterior makeovers. It is one of the first affiliates in the nation to join Habitat for Humanity International’s Neighborhood Revitalization Initiative, which focuses on community redevelopment through new, energy-efficient construction; rehabilitation of vacant and foreclosed properties; weatherization to make existing houses more energy efficient and affordable; and house repairs for existing low-income homeowners through “A Brush With Kindness” and critical home repairs.   The local affiliate continues to meet and exceed its goals, despite nearly a decade of decline in homeownership throughout the United States.   According to the State of the Nation’s Housing 2014, compiled by the Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University, “The national homeownership rate marked its ninth consecutive year of decline in 2013, affecting most segments of the population. The drop among minorities is particularly troubling, given their growing presence in the housing market. While affordability conditions remain favorable, rising home prices and interest rates—along with continued tight credit—have made homebuying more of a stretch for some households. These shifts could mean that fewer Americans will be able to become homeowners in the future.”   Habitat for Humanity of Martin County offers a solution to the nationwide housing crisis by offering a “Hand up instead of a handout.”   “Our mission goes above and beyond simply putting a roof over someone’s head,” Margot Graff, executive director of Habitat for Humanity of Martin County said. “Decent, affordable housing provides stability for families and children, a sense of dignity and pride, and increases educational and job prospects.”   Habitat’s family selection committee chooses homeowners based on their level of need, their willingness to become partners in the program and their ability to repay the loan. Every affiliate follows a nondiscriminatory policy of family selection – neither race nor religion is a factor in choosing the families who receive Habitat homes. Homeowners must contribute to Habitat’s sweat equity requirement of 300 volunteer hours. They purchase their homes with affordable, no-profit loans and their monthly mortgage payments are used to build more Habitat homes.   “Home ownership addresses so much more than the basic need for shelter; it creates success stories. Children of homeowners are 25 percent more likely to graduate high school; 116 percent more likely to graduate from college; and 16 percent more likely to belong to community organizations. Our homeowners become tax-paying citizens of Martin County and continue to invest in our community.”   To learn more about Habitat for Humanity of Martin County’s home building and community redevelopment initiatives, as well as homeownership and volunteer opportunities, visit HabitatMartin.org or call 772-223-9940.   About Habitat for Humanity of Martin County Seeking to put God’s love into action, Habitat for Humanity of Martin County brings people together to build homes, communities and hope. Since its inception as a not-for-profit organization in 1986, Habitat has built 107 homes in Hobe Sound, Indiantown, Jensen Beach, Port Salerno and Stuart. Learn more at HabitatMartin.org or call 772-223-9940.

2014-05-01T17:00:31-04:00 2014-05-08T17:00:31-04:00 https://www.habitatmartin.org/news/detail/id/92   Sue Michas, Steven Iacono, Charles Lavelle, Robert Hall, Sr., Jim Henderson and Amber Fake are teeing up for the inaugural Habitat Invitational Golf Tournament on May 23 at Willoughby Golf Club. For more information, visit HabitatMartin.org or call 772-223-9940, ext. 229.   A single round of golf can help build homes, communities and hope thanks to the inaugural Habitat Invitational Golf Tournament on Friday, May 23, presented by The First Tee Treasure Coast and PGA South Florida Section Foundation.   The tournament will take place at Willoughby Golf Club, 3001 S.E. Doubleton Drive, in Stuart. Registration begins at 12 p.m. followed by a 1 p.m. shotgun start. An awards reception will take place at 5:30 p.m.   “We’re excited to partner with The First Tee Treasure Coast and PGA South Florida to host our first tournament at the beautiful Willoughby Golf Club,” said Charles Lavelle, Habitat for Humanity of Martin County board member and event chair. “This Arthur Hills-designed golf course is challenging yet playable, and really celebrates the picturesque Florida landscape. The goal of this tournament is to raise funds for Habitat for Humanity and bring people together to build homes, communities and hope.”   The tournament format is a four-person scramble. On course contests include a hole-in-one; longest drive; closest to the pin; golf ball cannon shoot; and a putting contest. Prizes include $5,000 cash; a five day, four night cruise for two people; two round trip airline tickets to anywhere in the United States; an electronics package; golf foursomes and much more.   Special recognition goes to tournament sponsors, The First Tee Treasure Coast; Seacoast National Bank; Lavelle Construction; CenterState Bank; Frank Byers and Karen Rodgers; Braden & Braden AIA Architects and Planners; Northern Trust; Paramount Wealth Management Group of Raymond James and Associates; Palm City Nursing; Abney and Abney Green Solutions; and United Realty Group.   Registration is $195 per golfer (limited to 88 players) and includes an awards reception with cocktails and heavy hors d’ oeuvres, and an embroidered polo shirt. Guests may attend the awards reception for $55 per person.   For registration or sponsorship opportunities, visit HabitatMartin.org or call 772-223-9940, ext. 229.   About Habitat for Humanity of Martin County Seeking to put God’s love into action, Habitat for Humanity of Martin County brings people together to build homes, communities and hope. Since its inception as a not-for-profit organization in 1986, Habitat has built 107 homes in Hobe Sound, Indiantown, Jensen Beach, Port Salerno and Stuart. Learn more at HabitatMartin.org or call 772-223-9940.

2013-12-26T16:55:17-05:00 2014-05-08T16:55:17-04:00 https://www.habitatmartin.org/news/detail/id/91 Sitting: Auctioneer Elliot Paul, Taylor Wilson, Event Chairs Nina Ferraro and Debbie Allison, Mike Flaugh, Peter Jones, Cullen de Windt. Standing: Mitch Kloorfain, James Ferrara, Justin Angel, Derek Hartman and Fred Newhart.   Habitat for Humanity of Martin County’s most entertaining event of the year is right around the corner and it stars some of the Treasure Coast’s most charitable gentlemen.   Prestigious businessmen and esteemed professionals will donate their time and talent at the Mr. Stud Finder Charity Auction to benefit Habitat's 2014 Women Build program. Proceeds will help build a home for the McIntyre Family in the Carter Park community of Indiantown.   The event takes place Thursday, Jan. 30 at 6 p.m. at an elegant new venue, Willoughby Golf Club, 3001 S.E. Doubleton Drive in Stuart. Guests will enjoy cocktails, heavy hors d’ oeuvres, a silent auction, and the main event: a live auction at 7 p.m.   “Our studs and the ladies of our Women Build committee continue to out-do themselves each year,” said Margot Graff, executive director of Habitat for Humanity of Martin County. “They’ve orchestrated this one-of-a-kind auction featuring unique items donated by some of the Treasure Coast’s finest and most charitable gentlemen.”   This fourth annual event features a lively group of gentlemen, nominated by their peers and selected to present a valuable auction item or package for bid, valued from $300 to $5,000. Items include firefighter or sheriff for a day packages, a private cruise for up to 35 guests aboard the Schooner Lily, gourmet chef-prepared meals, private sports lessons, portrait sessions and much more.   Auctioneer Elliot Paul will serve as master of ceremonies, introducing Habitat for Humanity of Martin County’s “Stud Finders.” The 2014 lineup includes Martin County Firefighters James Ferrara, Derek Hartman and Justin Angel; Peter Jones of StarStruck Academy and Theatre; Chef Adam Fatigate of Chef’s Table; Chef Taylor Wilson of The Gafford; Piper’s Landing Yacht and Country Club tennis pro, Cullen de Windt; Winston Owen of the Racquet Club of Tesoro; Fred Newhart, captain of the Schooner Lily and Treasure Coast Sailing Adventures; John Meskauskas of The Flying Fish Paddle Sports; photographer Mitch Kloorfain; Michael Flaugh, landscape architect; chiropractor Dr. Leo Hart; mixed martial arts champion Din Thomas, and representatives from the Martin County Sheriff’s Department.   Special thanks goes to Elliot Paul and Company, The Stuart News, and NisAir for sponsoring this event.   Tickets are $75 per person and include admission to the auction, cocktail reception and heavy hors d’ oeuvres. To purchase tickets, learn more about the event, sponsorships and advertising opportunities, visit HabitatMartin.org or call 772-223-9940.   About Women Build The 2014 Habitat for Humanity of Martin County Women Build home will be built for the McIntyre Family in the new community of Carter Park in Indiantown. The family is already contributing to Habitat’s sweat equity requirement of 300 volunteer hours. They will purchase the home with a no-profit loan and their monthly mortgage payments will be used to build more Habitat homes.   Women Build is a Habitat for Humanity International program that encourages women and girls to have fun and make a difference by building homes and communities. Women crews around the world have built thousands of homes since Women Build’s official creation in 1998. Each year, more homes are added as affiliates, donors and sponsors discover the impact of women volunteers and their resources.   About Habitat for Humanity of Martin County Seeking to put God’s love into action, Habitat for Humanity of Martin County brings people together to build homes, communities and hope. Since its inception as a not-for-profit organization in 1986, Habitat has built 105 homes in Hobe Sound, Indiantown, Jensen Beach, Port Salerno and Stuart. Learn more at HabitatMartin.org or call 772-223-9940. 

2013-09-05T14:59:43-04:00 2013-11-08T14:59:43-05:00 https://www.habitatmartin.org/news/detail/id/90   A group of Martin County organizations partnered to form the ultimate, community-building dream team, and now their vision is becoming a reality as four Habitat for Humanity homes come to completion.   Habitat for Humanity of Martin County celebrated the grand opening of the Carter Park Development and dedicated their first four homes to the Sanchez, Mondragon, Jackson and Juan families on Aug. 28 in Indiantown. Following the ceremony, attendees previewed the homes and enjoyed cake and coffee.   The Sanchez, Mondragon, Jackson and Juan families have each contributed 300 sweat equity hours working on their homes and the homes of others as a requirement for becoming Habitat homeowners. Through the donations of funds, materials and volunteer labor, Habitat was able to build these four homes and sell them at an affordable price. The families purchased their homes with a no-profit loan and their monthly mortgage payments will be used to build additional Habitat houses.   The Martin County Community Redevelopment Agency and Board of County Commissioners, Habitat for Humanity of Martin County, and the Boys & Girls Clubs of Martin County joined hands in 2011 with the vision of building a new community in Indiantown named Carter Park. This partnership includes the construction of 40 Habitat homes, stormwater treatment for 256-acre watershed, and a new Boys & Girls Club uniquely situated among several established neighborhoods.   “This partnership will provide Indiantown with a brand new neighborhood, a public open space, and a Boys & Girls Club within walking distance of the surrounding communities,” said Edward Erfurt, urban designer for the Martin County CRA who has helped coordinate the development application. “It’s an amazing partnership and a national exemplar. We hope to build similar relationships in our other seven CRA’s.”   Since 1992, Habitat has built 31 homes throughout Indiantown and plans to build a total of 40 affordable, energy efficient homes with two-, three- and four-bedroom floor plans in the new Carter Park community.   “Home ownership addresses so much more than the basic need for shelter; it creates success stories. Children of home owners are 25 percent more likely to graduate high school; 116 percent more likely to graduate from college; and 16 percent more likely to belong to community organizations,” said Margot Graff, Habitat for Humanity of Martin County’s executive director. “With the partnership of our Habitat families attending the Boys & Girls Clubs programs, we are certain those statistics will make a difference in Indiantown, enhancing the future and creating success stories for many.”   With the support of the community, corporate sponsorships and funding, Habitat estimates the build-out time for all 40 homes in the Carter Park community to be between five and seven years. To learn how you can help, contact Mike Readling, Habitat’s director of resource development, at 772-223-9940. Visit HabitatMartin.org for more information.   View photos from this event on our Flickr page!   About Habitat for Humanity of Martin County Seeking to put God’s love into action, Habitat for Humanity of Martin County brings people together to build homes, communities and hope. Since its inception as a not-for-profit organization in 1986, Habitat has built 101 homes in Hobe Sound, Indiantown, Jensen Beach, Port Salerno and Stuart. For more information, call 772-223-9940.

2013-04-29T18:32:30-04:00 2013-04-29T18:32:30-04:00 https://www.habitatmartin.org/news/detail/id/88 Thank you to all of our supporters who participated in the Martin County Community Foundation Day of Giving on March 26. Habitat for Humanity of Martin County successfully raised $5,185. We appreciate your continued support and passion for our mission to eliminate substandard housing in Martin County. Habitat ranked 19th out of 62 participating non-profits! Special thanks to the Martin County Community Foundation staff who made this possible and their donors who provided matching funds:    Giving Day Partners Anonymous (2) Ray & Ellyn Stevenson Fund of the Martin County Community Foundation Scripps Howard Foundation Scripps Treasure Coast Newspapers Stuart Air Show

2013-03-28T11:49:24-04:00 2013-03-28T11:49:24-04:00 https://www.habitatmartin.org/news/detail/id/86 Congratulations to Andrea Gregory, winner of the "Drive it Home for Habitat 50/50 drawing." Andrea and Habitat for Humanity of Martin County received $1,600 each. Andrea is generously donating a portion of her winnings back to Habitat by way of the Martin County Community Foundation's Giving Day, which will further increase the impact of her gift.   “Habitat for Humanity of Martin County is a blessing that has had such a tremendous impact on many families, and on our community as a whole. It is an honor to be a member of the Donor Advisory Committee and have the opportunity to do my part to give back to our wonderful community, Martin County," Andrea said.   "Having won the recent 50/50 drawing is truly an unexpected surprise that I intend to share with Habitat for Humanity so that they may continue their mission to serve local families in need. Thank you, Habitat for Humanity."