Habitat EJC in Atlanta, GA March 4-7
Habitat EJC was well represented at the recent Habitat for Humanity (HFHI) Affiliate Conference in Atlanta, GA. Three board members, Brian Cullin, Nils Pedersen, and David Rinn joined seven staff members (Jamie, Amy, Bob, Julie, Leanne, Rachel, and Maria) for the three full conference days with Habitat colleagues from around the US and world.
Habitat EJC was honored for lifetime tithe contributions of $500,000 over our 25 years of work. This is a direct reflection of this community’s generous support.
Our strong affiliate representation allowed us to take in as many as possible of the 170-session offering. In addition to attending the conference, Jamie, Amy, and Maria presented in sessions on topics that included local impact of federal advocacy, volunteer stewardship, and successful collaboration between resource development and Habitat Stores.
HFHI leadership inspired the 2200 attendees with ideas, stories, and messages on the conference theme of We Build. We Influence. Together.
Description of Sessions co-presented by HFH EJC staff:
Jamie’s
Bridging the Gap: Why Federal Programs and Policies Matter at Home
Presenters: Audrey Johnston, Habitat for Humanity International; Jamie Maciejewski, Habitat for Humanity of East Jefferson County; Alan Ferguson, Atlanta Habitat for Humanity; Crystal Lazar, Habitat for Humanity East & Central Pasco County
Discover the impact that federal advocacy at home can have in shaping programs and policies like those that govern the Home Investment Partnerships Program, or HOME; Community Development Block Grants, or CDBG; and USDA 502 Direct, and how these programs and policies directly affect your local affiliates and community. Gain practical advocacy skills, learn tips for how to access resources, and hear success stories that will empower your affiliate’s mission to provide affordable homeownership solutions in your community. Uncover the essential link between federal policies and local community impact in this workshop.
Amy’s
Maximizing the Impact of Habitat ReStore Volunteers: Recruit, Retain and Recognize
Presenters: Amy Howard, Habitat for Humanity of East Jefferson County; Eric Allen, Habitat for Humanity International
Volunteers are the heart and soul of Habitat ReStore operations. Leveraging volunteers’ dedication can make a difference in achieving Habitat’s mission. In this session, we will explore the art of volunteer recruitment, retention and recognition tailored specifically to ReStore environments. Join this conversation to discover strategies and techniques that will empower you and your ReStore to thrive through the power of volunteers.
Maria’s
Stop! Collaborate and Mission: Building a Productive Culture Between Affiliates and ReStores
Presenters: Maria Drury, Habitat for Humanity East Jefferson County; Caitlin Massing, Habitat of Humanity Greater Memphis; Latoria “Tori” Taylor, Habitat of Humanity Greater Memphis; Jeremy Keen, Habitat for Humanity International
Experiencing some disconnection between your Habitat ReStore and affiliate? Does it feel like each is in their own silo with their own goals and relationships? Aimed at affiliate and development leadership, communications personnel and ReStore leadership, this session will dig deeper into the ReStore/affiliate relationship. Join us to identify ways to leverage the power the ReStore has, to amplify the mission of your affiliate by weaving the store into every Habitat conversation, resulting in a more cohesive Habitat, happier employees, and bolstered employee retention.
