Habitat for Humanity of Michigan

As you tackle your spring cleaning checklist this year, consider how a little extra effort can make a big impact not just in your home but in your community. Decluttering? Donate gently used items to local shelters or Habitat ReStores to give them a second life. Deep cleaning? Take the opportunity to make energy-efficient upgrades that can save you money in the long run. Ready for a bigger project? Join a community clean-up or volunteer to help a neighbor in need. A cleaner, more organized home leads to a brighter, more vibrant community. Let us welcome the new season with purpose and positivity! https://bit.ly/4dCMziO

Everyone deserves a safe, stable, and affordable place to call home. At Habitat for Humanity of Michigan, we know that access to affordable housing is the foundation for strong, thriving communities. However, too many families across Michigan are struggling to find housing they can afford. By advocating for policies and initiatives that support accessible housing for all, you can help create lasting change. Your voice has the power to break down barriers, open doors, and ensure that more individuals and families have the opportunity to build a better future. Stand with us in the fight for affordable housing and be a part of shaping a more equitable Michigan. https://bit.ly/49nRHFX

This Women’s History Month, we recognize Maggie Lena Walker, a financial powerhouse and the first Black woman to charter and serve as president of a bank in the United States. In 1903, she founded the St. Luke Penny Savings Bank, empowering Black Americans with financial independence at a time when access to banking services was severely limited. Walker’s leadership extended beyond banking. She was a fierce advocate for education, economic opportunity, and social justice, using her influence to uplift her community. Her work laid the foundation for future generations of women and people of color to take control of their financial futures. Her legacy serves as a powerful reminder that financial empowerment is a tool for lasting change. This month, we celebrate her contributions and the many women who continue to break barriers and build stronger communities.

Take control of your financial future with our counseling services! Whether you're preparing for homeownership, working on financial stability, or navigating housing challenges, we’re here to help. Our free programs are available to all Michigan residents and provide essential support, including budgeting and financial management, homebuyer education and counseling, post-purchase guidance for home improvements and foreclosure prevention, and fair housing services to protect against predatory lending. No matter where you are on your financial or housing journey, we’re ready to walk alongside you. https://bit.ly/48Z8Sxb

Every dollar you spend at Habitat for Humanity's ReStore is like making a direct donation to your community! When you shop, you're helping improve the lives of your friends and neighbors by supporting Habitat's mission to build affordable homes and strengthen local neighborhoods. The money you spend stays right here, funding projects that make a lasting impact in our community. So not only will you find great deals on furniture, appliances, and building materials, but you’ll also know that your purchase is helping families in need create a brighter future. Shop with purpose and visit your local ReStore today! https://bit.ly/4dCMziO (via littlefashionstylist - TT)

Have you seen what's happening at Habitat for Humanity of Kent County? Over the past few weeks, this amazing group of young adults has braved the chilly weather to help build two Habitat homes for local families in need. Their dedication and hard work are truly remarkable! YouthBuild Grand Rapids is empowering young people, ages 18 to 24, by offering a unique opportunity to build both their futures and their communities. These participants are not only gaining valuable skills and experience, but the work they’re doing is also helping to shape the future of their community.

Today, on International Women’s Day, we celebrate the strength, resilience, and leadership of women who are making a difference in their communities. From building homes to advocating for affordable housing and creating opportunities for families to thrive, women play a vital role in shaping a better future for all. Women are not just changing lives. They are building hope, stability, and stronger neighborhoods. Their dedication and hard work inspire us daily to continue working toward a world where everyone has a safe and stable place to call home. Let’s continue to uplift, support, and empower women everywhere. Together, we can break barriers, open doors, and create lasting change. ?? Happy International Women’s Day! ??

Have you gotten started on your Spring home checklist yet? (via DadAdviceFromBo- TT)

#ThrowbackThursday to the 2024 AIM & HOMES Conference! This event brought together housing leaders, advocates, and changemakers, all committed to building stronger, more affordable communities in Michigan. From powerful discussions to innovative solutions, the energy and collaboration were inspiring. What was your biggest takeaway from the conference?

This Women’s History Month, we recognize the trailblazing women who have shaped the world through their leadership, resilience, and commitment to change. Dorothy Mae Richardson was one of those trailblazers. In the 1960s, she saw the challenges of housing affordability, redlining, and disinvestment in Pittsburgh’s Central Northside neighborhood. Without formal training but with a fierce determination, she organized her neighbors, brought financial institutions to the table, and sparked a movement that reshaped affordable homeownership. Her work led to the creation of Neighborhood Housing Services of Pittsburgh, a model that spread nationwide and ultimately influenced the establishment of NeighborWorks America. Richardson believed homeownership gave people roots and strengthened entire communities. Her vision continues to inspire efforts to ensure families have access to safe, affordable homes. Dorothy’s belief in empowering families through homeownership mirrors Habitat for Humanity of Michigan’s mission today. Her legacy continues to inspire efforts to break down barriers, uplift communities, and create opportunities for families to thrive.