August 2023 Newsletter
Community Impact
A Message From Jamie
The summer of 2023 is already in my book of personal highlights for Team Habitat. We’ve never had eight families moving into their homes within such a short amount of time. It’s taken the combined efforts of literally hundreds of community members to make it possible.
Whether you helped, gave, shopped, prayed, or cheered from the sidelines, THANK YOU! It does take all of us.
As you read on, give yourself a pat on the back or a high five. You could even send it to a friend and tell them, “I’m part of Team Habitat – look what I helped do!”
With gratitude,
Jamie Maciejewski, Executive Director
Best of the Peninsula
Thank You for Voting!
Thank you to everyone who participated in the PDN Best of the Olympic Peninsula contest by voting for Habitat EJC. Receiving your nominations and votes is a tremendous honor. We are filled with gratitude for the unwavering support of our wonderful community of volunteers, donors, board members and staff.
In past years, Habitat EJC has won three categories: Best Nonprofit, Best Furniture Store, and Best 2nd Hand Shop. At the end of September, the winners and two finalists will be announced in the Best of Peninsula special section.
Fingers crossed – we will once again rank among the best in these categories. Your support means the world to us, and we eagerly await the outcome of the contest. Thank you for being a part of this exciting journey!
New Home Dedication
Alicia Gets Her Keys!
We are thrilled to extend a warm invitation to you to attend our upcoming home dedication for Alicia. These ceremonies hold a special place in our hearts as they mark the joyous moment when partners receive the keys to their new homes, embracing a brighter future filled with hope and possibilities.
At home dedications, we come together to praise the new homeowner for their hard work and offer words of encouragement for the families as they embark on this new chapter in their lives. It’s also an opportunity for us to express our gratitude to all the volunteers, staff, donors, and contributors who have made these new homes possible. We hope you can join us at this exciting and memorable event.
Also, check out the new Habitat EJC Home Blessing Ceremony video created by Dennis Daneau, a Habitat EJC volunteer. This is another amazing experience for the entire community that allows us to place prayers and best wishes in walls and bless the new homes.
5 Reasons to Make a Will
August is National Make a Will Month
Since August is National Make a Will month, we wanted to share this article with you. Making a will is a prudent decision for everyone, regardless of age or wealth. Here are five compelling reasons why creating a will this month is an excellent idea:
- Secure Your Legacy: A plan allows you to have a say in how your assets, property, and personal belongings are distributed among your beneficiaries. It ensures that your hard-earned wealth goes to the people or causes that matter most to you.
- Provide for Your Loved Ones: With a will, you can name guardians for minor children or elderly family members, ensuring they receive the care and support they need after you’re gone.
- Minimize Family Disputes: By leaving clear instructions, you can minimize the potential for disagreements among family members about asset distribution and reduce the likelihood of strained relationships.
- Reduce Financial Burden: A well-planned will can help minimize probate costs, estate taxes, and legal expenses, leaving more of your estate for your beneficiaries.
- Achieve Peace of Mind: Knowing that your wishes are documented and legally binding provides you with the reassurance that your loved ones will be taken care of according to your instructions, providing them with peace of mind during tough times.
Taking control of your legacy ensures that your loved ones are protected and your wishes are fulfilled. Legacy Gifts also leave a profound impact on our community.
Read more…
Building Community
Together We Made it Happen!
This summer has been truly inspiring and eventful for our community as volunteers and community members came together for group builds like Women Build, HumChumAlums Mini-Build, CHS Northwest (Cenex), and AAUW Build.
Women Build events are not only an opportunity to construct homes but also empower women in the community, providing them with valuable construction skills and fostering a sense of accomplishment. Group Builds bring former and current residents together, strengthening bonds and creating a sense of continuity within the community.
The AAUW Build in July exemplified how community organizations can collaborate for a common cause, amplifying their impact, while local businesses like CHS Northwest (Cenex) demonstrated that they care about the community they serve.
By coming together at these events, our community is not just building houses; it’s building connections, trust, and a spirit of togetherness. Each nail hammered, every gallon of paint, and every task carried out symbolizes the collective efforts of a community that cares deeply for one another.
The collective efforts of volunteers and community members are instrumental in driving positive change, fostering a powerful sense of community, and creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for all. Together, we can achieve remarkable things and build a brighter future for everyone. Stay tuned for upcoming community events.
Summer Volunteering
Join us!
Habitat is thrilled to offer volunteer opportunities throughout the rest of the summer and through the fall. We extend an open invitation to you to join your community in making a positive impact in Port Townsend. By volunteering with Habitat, you will become part of a collective force dedicated to creating a more compassionate and supportive community. Your efforts, time, and skills are highly valued.
Let’s all come together, roll up our sleeves, and build a better future for East Jefferson County.
Reach out to Amy to learn more and get involved, 360-379-2827 or volunteer@habitatejc.org.
Keep an eye out: Pride Build date soon to be announced
Get Involved
Get In Touch
Thank you for being an essential part of this journey and for sharing in our vision of building a better and more inclusive place for everyone. Together, we can achieve remarkable things and create a community that thrives on compassion, support, and unity.
For updates on Habitat building progress, events, volunteering and more, sign up for our newsletter here.
If you have questions, please reach out using the phone and email address at the bottom of this page and we look forward to seeing you soon!