We’re celebrating our 30th anniversary this year!
Tuesday, March 22nd, 2022
We are excited to be celebrating a milestone anniversary in 2022. Marquette County Habitat for Humanity was founded in 1992 which means we've been proudly serving the community for 30 years. Our mission is to eliminate poverty housing in Marquette County through affordable new construction homes, critical home repairs and ramp installations.
In the last three decades we have built 107 houses for low-income residents and performed 91 critical home repairs, including dozens of ramp installations. Currently the 107th house, located in Ishpeming township, is weeks away from completion and move in. The 108th house, in the City of Marquette, broke ground last fall and will continue work this spring. “One misconception about Habitat is that we give away houses,” says Deanna Johnson, Executive Director. “In reality, partner families have to perform at least 250 sweat equity hours per adult. Once the house is finished the homeowner is set up with an affordable mortgage. We can keep construction costs reasonable because of volunteer labor, donated product and program funding from the ReStore.”
Proceeds from the ReStore, the donation-based retail store located in Harvey, help support Habitat’s housing programs, along with community donations, grants and volunteers who fulfill a variety of roles throughout the organization.
Looking back over the last 30 years, one thing is clear. Volunteers are the backbone of Habitat’s programs. Whether it’s raising walls or installing siding on a new build, constructing ramps for disabled homeowners or sorting and cleaning items at the ReStore, volunteers play a key role in Habitat’s success.
Besides volunteering, what other ways can community members support Habitat’s mission? “Continuing to donate and shop at the ReStore. With rising prices, shopping at the ReStore can save customers money while putting important dollars into our programs,” Johnson adds, “We are also looking for partner families for 2022 and beyond. If you or someone you know is in unsafe or unaffordable housing, contact Habitat to see if you qualify for our program.”
Stay tuned for upcoming anniversary celebrations including a Summer Celebration Cookout and a Business After Hours in October.