March 2024 News
Critical Repairs
Our Critical Repairs Program
Did you know our affiliate has a Critical Home Repair Program?
At Habitat EJC, we continuously accept applications for repair projects, particularly in Quilcene and Brinnon. If you are (or know) a homeowner having trouble making necessary repairs, we may be able to help! We offer a confidential free home repair assessment, no-interest loans, and loan payment deferral for as long as a homeowner owns their home.
Examples of repairs we do:
- Repairs that affect the health and safety of those living in the home
- Repairs that, with completion, could keep an occupant in their home for another 5 years
Depending on the individual repair, we might work with heating and cooling systems, clean water systems, roofing repairs and replacements, and painting exteriors to keep homes from deteriorating
View our new repair video below and check out our website to learn more or sign up to meet with a staff member about our program.
Store News
Spring Art Show
Read more about it here.
Great new donations
Pick up or use our furniture delivery and storage services. Please contact the store for delivery and storage fees.
Visit the Annex every Friday from 11 am to 4 pm to see our latest donations and come by the store Monday – Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm. Find the annex on 4th Street, behind the Habitat Store, just across Thomas Street.
Volunteer Spotlight
Volunteer Spotlight: Meet Board of Directors
Jim Golden exemplifies dedication to Habitat’s cause. After retiring from a 45-year career in IT and software development, Jim and his wife Kendra became Habitat Care-a-vanners. They have also participated in global builds and contributed their expertise to the various Habitat committees. His leadership sets the tone for the board’s collective efforts to support Habitat’s initiatives.
The board includes Nils Pedersen, Brian Cullin, and Lori Tschohl, who bring extensive experience in law, communication, and business management, respectively. Their diverse expertise enriches Habitat EJC’s strategic planning and governance. Additionally, directors Christie Apker and Kathryn Malý, with backgrounds in public safety, education, and conflict resolution, infuse the board with a deep understanding of community needs and effective problem-solving skills. David Rinn, Kevin Camfield, Todd Hutton, and Emily Ingram contribute finance, manufacturing, education, and lending expertise. Together, this dedicated team ensures that Habitat EJC remains at the forefront of affordable housing in East Jefferson County.
Volunteer Opportunities
For example, in the office, volunteers can assist with administrative tasks, from data entry to coordinating events and managing correspondence, ensuring the smooth operation of the organization. As consultants, individuals with expertise in areas such as finance, law, or marketing can offer invaluable guidance to support strategic decision-making and improve overall efficiency. Specialists, whether in areas like human resources or volunteer management, contribute their skills to enhance Habitat’s operations and maximize its impact. Moreover, art experts can help curate and organize Habitat’s significant backstock of donated art, infusing creativity and beauty into the space. Tool experts play a crucial role in maintaining equipment, providing training, and ensuring safety standards are met, essential for the success of construction projects, as well as help determine if donated tools are fit for our construction site or for sale in the Store. Additionally, childcare providers offer support to families participating in Habitat programs, creating a nurturing environment for children while their parents contribute their time and efforts to building stronger communities.
Each of these volunteer roles—and more—are indispensable in fostering Habitat’s mission of providing affordable housing and empowering families in East Jefferson County. If you have an area of interest as a volunteer, please reach out to Manager of Volunteer Engagement Amy Howard at volunteer@habitatejc.org to make arrangements for a Volunteer Orientation, the first step on your journey to becoming a Habitat volunteer.
EJC in Atlanta
2024 Affiliate Conference – 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.
Read more about the conference here.
Construction Update
What’s new on Eddy Street?
At Habitat’s newest construction site, we’re working on two houses side-by-side. Shold Excavating is preparing and forming stem walls for a house that will have a crawl space to accommodate the sloping terrain. This project presents a unique opportunity for our team and volunteers to gain experience in I-joist and sub-floor construction, as we typically construct slab-on-grade foundations.
Swift Plumbing has completed the under-slab plumbing system for this project and the exterior and interior walls are currently being framed. With the assistance of Habitat’s enthusiastic volunteers, we will continue the process of crafting this home throughout the spring and summer months.
Interested in volunteering? Contact us at volunteer@habitatejc.org for more information.
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!