Loveland Habitat Builds Strength and Stability

“It takes a village to bring a house to life,” ~ Cindi Hammond, Executive Director/Loveland Habitat for Humanity.

The not-for-profit organization known as Loveland Habitat for Humanity (LHFH) does more than build houses. Loveland Habitat builds strength and stability through housing. What we know, they are in the ‘people’ business. In this week’s article we are going to share interesting aspects of an assembly of fellowship and how they are vital to the Loveland, Colorado community. We’ll also share with you valuable information on how YOU can get in on the action. Grab a coffee (Or wine) and curl up with some heart-warming news on one of the finest groups in town. 

Historically Speaking…

For those of you unfamiliar, Loveland Habitat affiliate, it is an international organization founded in 1976, with the main headquarters in Atlanta, GA. They founded the Loveland Habitat affiliate in 1987 and have been assisting homeowners since.  One of the biggest reasons, Realtors® like myself, appreciates their mission: They bring people together, giving hope to the community. There is no profit from sales, no commission, or referrals. The pay-off comes purely from helping others with every part, from financing to placing the finishing touches on the home. The best part comes from handing keys over, seeing the remarkable joy on the face of the new homeowners. 

Local Businesses and Individuals Participate at LHFH Events 

Many businesses in the area like to take part, including big box stores. The Home Depot and Lowe’s play a big role in assisting with these projects. Additional residents and businesses, like Walmart, First Bank, OtterBox and more connect. In addition, Realtors® from several brokerages don’t mind rolling up their sleeves to complete projects.   All who join the action provides much needed support.

For example, after the 2013 floods, Loveland Habitat built homes for 2-families who lost their homes, helping them resettle.  A grant funding helped the recipients rebuild their lives.  It’s important to remember, there’s more than donations pouring in where the participants (future residents) must be active and follow the guidelines set by LHFH. 

“This is a hand up not a handout program where a segment of our direct population couldn’t buy a home in the traditional sense,” ~ Cindi with LHFH

In the event you were unsure how someone qualifies for a LHFH home, here is the breakdown: 

• Level of Need
• Must Live or Work in Loveland for 1-Year
• Willingness to Partner with Current and Future Projects 
• Ability to Pay Back a Loan 
• They meet all Guidelines for Fair Housing

Homeowners Use ‘Sweat Equity’ to Carry Out the Process of Building 

To what some may think, you cannot sign up and ‘POOF’ you have a home. They require beneficiaries to follow the program, carrying out the mission for as many families as possible. In addition, when they say ‘Willingness to partner,’ the non-profit expects homeowners to partake with other LHFH-home building projects. This is what the affiliate calls ‘Sweat Equity.’

Energy Efficiency is Something LHFH Strives For with Every Project 

Another unique item is the willingness to be energy efficient. LHFH supervisors seek green-friendly solutions when possible. By using LED lighting and other environmentally friendly materials, they create sustainability while being kind to Mother Earth. Not to mention, the benefits for the homeowners to live in safe surroundings. Saving energy is truly a healthy way to live! 

Ways for You to Volunteer with Loveland Habitat for Humanity

Ways to volunteer with LHFH are vast! You can get hands-on experience with a variety of tasks. Laying sod, planting trees, and painting are just a few of the volunteer services.  Participants build strong relationships with their Loveland neighbors. (Not to mention, you’re doing a good deed). You will learn new skills while working alongside the Habitat homeowners as they build their home. In addition, LHFH residents are taking on the true-meaning of homeownership by learning how to maintain their properties. 

 Philanthropists are the lifeblood of the 501c3, where donations are welcome whether they are personal gifts or from corporations. Two Habitat programs raising funds are “Cars for Homes” and Restore. We suggest calling (970)669-9769 to see how you can get involved with recycling and contribution. Every time someone donates a vehicle or shops at Restore brings homeowners one step closer to unlocking their front door. 

“Habitat homeowners are hardworking people that just don’t earn enough money to afford a home on the traditional housing market,” ~ Cindi

Why would anyone want to put their blood, sweat and tears into building a house for somebody else? There are many reasons. One, people less fortunate live among us who are deserving citizens. These folks may have experienced poverty or feel hopeless. They assume fulfilling their dreams to own a home is impossible. Sometimes, the residents suffer from medical or health issues. Stories of homeowners include those who can not afford conventional loans which ultimately affect both residents and the economy.  For every home, there is a story that is as unique as its dwellers. These are the neighbors who build the tapestry of our beautiful Northern Colorado communities. 

The Exciting News!! 

Communications Coordinator, Tori Stepp provides insight for the upcoming 4th Annual Builder’s Ball., This is the largest event they host each year. The 2020 virtual event starts at 5:30 p.m. with a pre-show and festivities immediately following. This year’s goal is $75,000 with hopes to help our next family.

“Because of COVID-19, we haven’t had a chance for closeness. Our signature event for this year needs to raise money more than ever to fund the pipeline.” ~ Cindi

This event will be virtual where you can take part in silent auctions and other activities making the event a great success. Since they’re doing an online celebration, they are livestreaming from the home of one of their recipients. Be sure to tune in for more details on their Facebook page.  

Sponsorship opportunities are still available and highly needed. If you’d like to participate with the silent auction or donations of any kind, be sure to contact Vince Deely at vince@lovelandhabitat.org.