I Helped Build It!

'Spotlight Promotion from Charleston Habitat for Humanity ReStore'

2010-08-19T12:57:00.000-04:00

'Spotlight Promotion from Charleston Habitat for Humanity ReStore'

2 new opportunities! Help us find someone!

2010-08-16T16:00:00.000-04:00

Current Volunteer need:

Our box truck goes out every Monday-Friday to pick up household goods and building materials being donated to our organization! Most of these items, we can use in construction or re-sale in our ReStore to raise funds to build more homes!

Volunteers - this is active, hands on work!
Need to be able to lift heavy objects.
2 or 3 volunteers will be on the truck each day
Sign up to help once or on a regular basis!

If you can help, please contact Laurel Prichard, Director of Volunteer Services at (843)722-7145 ext. 105 or laurel@charlestonhabitat.org

Also, now hiring fall interns!

pictured above is summer intern Lindsay Howard, a student from Clemson University with Habitat parter homeowner, Joann Cooksey

Communications
Faith Relations
Marketing

Go here for more details, descriptions and instructions to apply:

http://www.charlestonhabitat.org/

If you know anyone who might be interested in helping on the truck or in our fall interships, please pass this along! Spreading the word is the EASIST and BIGGEST way YOU can help!

ReStore Event!

2010-07-26T12:42:00.000-04:00

Dont miss our ReStore party THIS THURSDAY, July 29th from 5:30-7:30. Raffle drawings, BBQ dinner (provided by Locklear's Restaurant) and 20% off all furniture! Drop in anytime!

New ReStore Items! Take a look....

2010-07-14T11:26:00.000-04:00

Only $100, barely worn in couch! Don't miss out on a great deal!

Vintage stove, valued at 8,000 for only $300 bucks!

Vintage record player only $60!

We've got PLENTY of couches to go around...so come on in and pick out your favorite! Prices range from $15-200!

Habitat in Honduras!

2010-06-22T10:30:00.001-04:00

This past month,15 Habitat members went to Honduras for nine days and completed two homes! These travelers had an awesome time volunteering their time to help our international affordable housing mission. Volunteer Coordinator, Laurel Prichard, hashed out some details about their trip to us; she said it was an enlightening trip that allowed the volunteers to experience the culture first-hand. It also gave them an opportunity to help a less fortunate community and country, one that appreciates international support. Laurel explained that it puts our needs (in America) into perspective and helps us realize global needs, in addition to our own. She said it was a pleasure to work with the Honduras people because of their friendly and inviting attitude as well as their eagerness to work and do everything in their power to build their homes. She strongly encourages those interested in the 'global village' expeditions to fulfill their desires, claiming that the trip will allow you to provide service to a foreign country while simultaneously offering the opportunity to immerse yourself in a foreign culture, otherwise unbeknown to you!

Click here to get some first-hand information and pictures from Laurel!
http://itallstartsathome.blogspot.com

Why Volunteer?

2010-06-16T11:49:00.000-04:00

Volunteers are more than just a college sports team. Volunteers are people willing to donate their time to participate in a non-paying activity. So in rough economic times like these, why partake in an altruistic activity and receive no pay when you could be spending your time at a job making money?

A job may provide you with some financial security (or in my case some extra summer cash) volunteering can satisfy you in different ways. Volunteering provides an opportunity to learn--not only about yourself (your strengths and weaknesses) but also about other people you are working with.

As a junior in college I know why most young adults first start to volunteer--to build their resume for college. I spent many of my afternoons during high school trying to rack up the number of community service hours I had completed. At the time, I was looking to build my resume up as much as possible for my college applications by participating in any and all sorts of volunteer activities.

While I often dragged my feet to my designated shifts at a local hospital, this glimpse into volunteering taught me new skills that I would not have learned through an after school job. For instance, I learned how to be flexible and how important that skill is in the real world. If the hospital needed me to stay and work an extra hour past my scheduled shift--I would learn how to change my schedule around and make this possible.

As I've matured through new life experiences since my high school days, I have gained a new respect for those good Samaritans who donate their time to others. A 9 to 5 job cannot deliver the same feeling of joy and happiness as knowing you helped improve someone’s day or even life. And yes, while working a job is considered important and positive work, it does not provide the chance to minimize the stress in your life the same way helping someone else through volunteering does. The wide array of people you come into contact with during volunteering pushes you to improve your communication skills. As I mentioned earlier--you must learn to be flexible and react to new situations. Being able to clearly and effectively communicate with a variety of different people helps maintain this flexibility.

From my short time at Charleston Habitat, I have been able to witness the incredible benefits of volunteering. Volunteering brings together all kinds of people from all different walks of life. Being able to come together as individuals to work as a team and complete a job is inspirational.

So, for whatever reason people decide to or have decided to offer their time and services, I hope that at the end of the day everyone walks away with the same feeling of happiness that I do.

Now that you know how my adventures in volunteering started, do you volunteer? If you do, how did you first get involved? And what is your favorite part of volunteering?

Art for Charity Event!

2010-06-15T10:43:00.000-04:00

Charleston Habitat for Humanity had an amazing time at the Art for Charity event on June 10th, 2010 from 5:30-7:30pm!! This wonderful event was hosted by Michael Mitchell Interiors, an interior design firm operating in Charleston and Columbia, South Carolina, and New York. You can find our local Michael Mitchell Interiors on 438 King Street, Charleston. We were so lucky to have an opportunity to partner with this design firm to raise money to further our mission to end poverty and provide safe homes for those in need.

We all enjoyed a wonderful evening accompanied by red and white wines donated by Whole Foods and delicious appetizers of stuffed mushrooms, smoked salmon and relishes from In Seasons Catering.
The art ranged in so many styles and forms from oils to sculptures, to recycled creations, to furniture, from traditional to modern pieces. Each piece of art was lovely and unique to their creator.
Art For Charity features a wide variety of artwork from local and national artists. Artists include Marty Biernbaum, Deanna Bowdish, Terry Brennan, Joe Byrne, John Crum, R.L. Gibson, Heidi Darr-Hop, Toni Elkins, Rex Hunter, Jon Ives, Kim Keats, Karen Keen-Day, Stephen Kishel, Alicia Leeke, Elena Madden, Debbie Martin, Betsy McDonald, Easter Melton, Bruce Nellsmith, Betsey Stevenson, Darlett Stone, Carl Turner and Marlies Williams.
A portion of the proceeds from all the art purchased that evening went to help support Charleston Habitat for Humanity, Mitchell said he “would like to give every person every opportunity to give.”
In addition to working with us, they partnered with other local non-profit organizations including the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) Hollings Cancer Center, Charleston Breast Center, MUSC Children’s Hospital, Ronald McDonald House, American Red Cross, South Carolina Aquarium and Roper Saint Francis Ryan White Program.
The two hour event was enjoyed by everyone who came out to support us, THANK you to every single individual who came out to Art for Charity; we appreciate your continued involvement with Charleston Habitat for Humanity!

(From left to right: Restore Intern Ethan, Marketing Intern Lindsey, Church Relations Intern Michelle, Restore Asst. Manager Tommy, and NEW Restore Manager Barbie!)

Check out more pictures from Art for Charity on our Facebook page http://www.facebook.com/charleston.habitat

Art for Charity

2010-06-08T10:40:00.000-04:00

Art for Charity, hosted by Michael Mitchell Interiors, is a pop up gallery featuring work from South Carolina Artists, with proceeds benefiting local non-profits charities.

Michael Mitchell, a native of Johns Island who decided to move back home after several years in New York, has developed an inspiring way to help support eight Lowcountry charities. The Art for Charity Gallery at 438 King Street, opened on May 13, 2010 and will continue showing until June 13, 2010.

The style of the work ranges from traditional to modern, with both two and three dimensional and encompasses a variety of media. All of the pieces were hand selected by Michael himself.

Each of the eight charities will be honored with a reception inside the Art for Charity gallery. The receptions are held Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights throughout the month. Notable restaurants in the Lowcountry, such as Halls Chophouse, Social and Jasmine Porch, will cater the receptions. A $10 donation at the door is suggested.

The Tri-County Habitat for Humanity affiliates will be hosting their reception on Thursday, June 10, 2010 from 5:30pm-7:30pm. Come out and join us for wine, appetizers and a sample of some of the Lowcountry’s favorite artists. The reception is catered by Whole Foods, Food for the Southern Soul and In Seasons Catering. The gallery is also open 10-6 p.m. daily today through June 13 and you can learn more about each artist, as well as other benefiting charities and receptions by visiting www.artforcharityblog.com.

Welcoming New Staff

2010-06-03T11:33:00.002-04:00

Here at Charleston Habitat we'd like to welcome a new member to our team, Barbie Dugan, who will be working as our new ReStore Manager.

We had a little question and answer session with Barbie to get to know our new manager a little better and heres what we found out:

ChasHabitat: Where are you from?

Barbie: Wichita, Kansas.

ChasHabitat: What brought you to South Carolina?

Barbie: I went to massage therapy school here in Charleston and took part in previous Habitat projects through AmeriCorps.

ChasHabitat: Tell about your involvment in AmeriCorps.

Barbie: I was stationed in Richmond, VA for Disaster Relief through the American Red Cross and took a group to Charleston to help with the cause down here.

ChasHabitat: What are your hobbies?

Barbie: Reading, traveling, working out and sports!

Joppa Way

2010-06-02T20:00:00.000-04:00

Come join us!

On Saturday, June 5th, Charleston Habitat for Humanity will be hosting a block part at Joppa Way to raise awareness of future building sites in the neighborhood.

Joppa Block Party is the kick off to a revitalization of Highland Terrance neighborhood through Habitat’s “A Brush with Kindness” program. Through these construction projects we hope to reanimate the atmosphere of the area.

Join us as we party on Joppa Way on Saturday, June 5th, 2010 from 10 am-1 pm as we celebrate the bright future of the neighborhood. Food, fun, and festivity will be provided—all you need to do is RSVP and show up. Come out and meet the neighbors of Joppa Way and Highland Terrance while enjoying family fun and guest speakers from the city of North Charleston.

The speakers will start at 10:15 am and lunch will be provided around noon.

To RSVP, call 843-722-7145

Directions to Joppa Way Block Party: Off of East Montague Ave., turn onto Goodmall Drive by N.Chas. City Hall. Turn left onto Lacross Road. When road forks, turn left onto Jonah Street. Joppa Way is immediately on your right.

Bike & Build

2010-06-02T12:49:00.000-04:00

Bike & Build recently joined forces with the Charleston Habitat for Humanity team while working on the Robinson Family home. A group of 32 determined bikers helped repair the Robinson's roof. For many of these bikers, this was their first experience on an active construction site.

While many of the bikers were wide eyed and awed by the task ahead of them, they were steadfast to overcome their anxieties and hop on the roof. Although there was a rocky start to the day with morning showers, the bikers remained unflinching to get the roof completed.

With the help of the Charleston Habitat team, bikers were able to assist in replacing the roof in just one day. This process consisted of removing the old shingles, laying and nailing down new plywood, and finally finishing by placing new shingles on top of the plywood.

Bike & Build is an organization that funds affordable housing projects in 47 different states. One of their goals is to connect young adults and students to the mission of providing affordable housing while allowing them to see the many different ways of life throughout the country.

Participants are given the choice of nine different routes through the United States. The South Carolina Bike & Build group started their trip across country with Charleston Habitat and will finish their journey in Santa Cruz, California averaging about 75 miles a day on the road.

The South Carolina Bike & Build team has raised a total of $146,248 which is funneled back into the mission to provide affordable housing to those in need. For those interested in learning more about the Bike & Build organization check out their website: http://bikeandbuild.org/cms/

Also, a special thanks to 'The BBQ Joint' located in North Charleston and 'The Pretzel Twister' in West Ashley at the Citadel Mall for supplying the food and beverages to this group of bikers and volunteers.

Hudson Family Build

2010-02-04T10:55:00.001-05:00

Check out our progress on the Hudson Family home at 350 N. Nassau Street downtown!

We still need volunteers! To find out how you can help, visit our Volunteer Opportunities Page

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Click here to view these pictures larger

And check out our new photo sharing website! Feel free to save any pictures of yourself!

We Count Our Blessings this Christmas!

2009-12-18T12:56:00.000-05:00

It's been a while since we have posted an update about our affiliate, but I think now is a great time to share with you the many blessings we have received in 2009.

1. With donations from The Exchange Club, The Rotary Club and Softwood Lumber, we were able to complete our first two Homeowner Home Repair Projects. A program that is unique to our affiliate and will greatly increase our neighborhood revitalization efforts!

2. Thanks to Mick Jewell of First Financial Services, who organized, funded and executed our 1st Annual Golf Tournament at Stono Ferry! His support and ambition are an inspiration to all!

3. A big thank you to all the businesses that continue to donate items to our ReStore, which helps fund our mission. Specifically, Circa Lighting, Morris Sokol, Goodwood, and Kitchen and Bath Designs!

4. Our wonderful volunteers with extensive construction expertise, whom without, the home construction would not be possible. Especially, the Thursday Crew, their devotion and time are priceless!

5. A big thank you to our house sponsors, Joye Law Firm, Lucille S. Thompson Foundation and First Scots Presbyterian Church!

6. We started a Women Build Committee and an Apostles Build Committee, to empower woman and build on faith, they are both doing great things for our mission!

The list of blessings that we receive on a daily basis is immeasurable, too many to list and so grand that a "thank you" will never be enough! My hope is that those that have given to us, know how much they mean to our mission and understand the difference they are making in the lives of our partnering families.

May you all be as blessed as we are and we look forward to the gifts that God has for us in 2010!

In memoriam, Millard Fuller, 1935-2009

2009-02-05T14:14:00.000-05:00

Millard Fuller, 1935-2009

It is with deep sadness that we inform you that Millard Fuller, the founder of Habitat for Humanity, passed away suddenly, this Tuesday morning near Americus Georgia.

Millard was a self-made millionaire at a very young age who saw his relationship with his wife deteriorate. As part of that reconciliation with his wife Linda, they divested themselves of that wealth to begin a life of service.

Millard and Linda Fuller founded Habitat for Humanity in an abandoned barn on Koinonia Farms in 1976 with a goal of housing a million people. From those humble beginnings Millard took an idea, and created a movement.

Millard's leadership helped forge Habitat into a worldwide Christian housing ministry. Globally, Habitat has built over 300,000 homes and every 10 minutes, helps a family improve their housing situation in more than 100 countries around the world.

"I see life as both a gift and a responsibility. My responsibility is to use what God has given me to help his people in need."— Millard Fuller

Tomorrow, Millard's body will be returned to Koinonia Farms where he is to be buried surrounded by friends and family.

While we are saddened by this news, we are comforted in the knowledge that the man who created a home for millions, is home at last. We hope you will join us in offering your prayers and support to his wife Linda.

"Well done, good and faithful servant."— Matthew 25:21

To help continue Millard's legacy and make a gift in memoriam at www.charlestonhabitat.org

A four day week, snow in Charleston and an almost new Keurig Brewing System! 2009 Rocks already!

2009-01-20T11:48:00.000-05:00

I have not seen any yet, but my fingers are still crossed to see one snowflake float outside the window of my office. Though the holidays are over, the time for hot coffee, warm blankets and blazing campfires is not. Since I work upstairs from a gentle used-goods store, I am constantly answering the parade of calls and customers looking for coffee machines, water heaters, electric blankets, etc. during the winter months. From time to time we have at least one of everything, but as many of you know, if it's good, it will go fast.

But something came in this morning that caught my attention. In great condition, almost new and perfect for the solo coffee drinker. The Special Edition Brewing System by Keurig originally $149.00 in stores (don't believe me, click here http://www.keurig.com//b60.asp?mscsid=HRHJTKW QPUP28K12JN1 E1D5WTN9627B1) but we are selling it for $45.00. It's shiny, powers on and is ready to go.

As I was walking around the store, admiring some of the goods that came in over the weekend, two more gems were spotted:

The first item (and I have absolutely no idea how I would use this, maybe give it to my husband to stand behind during one of his football/softball/basketball rants?) is a white podium. Not a particularly useful item, but if anyone is looking for one, we've got it.

The next item will go along with many New Year's resolutions...a treadmill for $30.00. It is an Proform 745 CS, after googling it I came up with many sites recommending this piece of home fitness equipment. Definitely worth the small investment, if actually used, it could produce big results.

The Humanitarian Way to Redecorate

2009-01-07T12:10:00.000-05:00

FYI: Charleston Habitat for Humanity uses the revenue from the ReStore for all of our operating costs. That means that our construction crew, truck drivers, bookkeeper and volunteer coordinator all survive because of the recycling of old furniture and appliances. It's a generous circle we operate, we take used goods and sell them at a discounted rate. We then use that money to hire professionals that organize, plan and build decent, affordable housing.

As any Feng Shui professional will tell you, the benefit of bringing balance, harmony, and beneficial energy to the environment where we live and work enables us to develop happier, healthier lives. To create such an atmosphere, it often requires a little bit of redecorating, maybe some demolishing and a bit of originality. Although a new kitchen may not be at the top of your "New Year's Resolutions" list, it sure as heck shouldn't be at the bottom. Below is a list of a few simple ideas to help you create a balanced 2009, all of these items are located in our ReStore at 731 Meeting Street. With the high turnover, most of this stuff barely lasts a day! But good news, there will be another delivery tomorrow with more great finds.

"A chandelier is one of the few all-round excellent Feng Shui energisers. The crystals in the chandelier reflect light beautifully, bringing in added glow and warmth. Hanging chandeliers in the southern corner of any room is beneficial and a chandelier in the Southwest corner of your home is wonderful if you wish to invite romance into your life or stimulate a current relationship!"

I could not have said it better myself..chandeliers are classic and elegant, now it's just a matter of finding the right one!

Look at these gorgeous wood pieces, full of stories, storage space and character. If your room is in need of a solid piece of furniture this could be the staple that binds everything together! Or in my case, organizes and stores everything that has yet to find a home....

First let me say this, looks can be deceiving! Second, I know this might be the worst picture ever used to represent a "where to shop" option. However, beyond this toilet graveyard, there are trendy bathroom sinks, architectural elements from reputable Charleston homes and plenty of items to remodel your home with! It may take a couple of trips to this area of the ReStore, but trust me, you will find a gem to inspire a new bathroom/kitchen/patio .

So, good luck shopping in a thrift store haven. Please post your finds to show off your ingenuity and patience!

Print out this page and bring it into the ReStore to receive 10% off your entire purchase. Excluding the tile and kitchen cabinets.

No longer just for Humanity, now Habitat for Cyberspace...

2008-12-19T12:17:00.000-05:00

Charleston Habitat for Humanity is trying to update our means of communication via the web. We have created this blog site in hopes of the opportunity to tell our story. It's a story that gets told time and time again, but is never the same. We find a family, raise the funds, solicit the volunteers, build a home and in the end we have provided affodable housing to one family in need. Does it get much better? Oh heck yeah!!

This blog is just the beginning of stories yet to be told. Topics like family triumphs and fundraising vices will enrich your spirit and give you the opportunity to give back. Feel free to chime in as much as you want, it is only through our volunteers and community support that we can be successful!

Please add us to your favorite blogs and come the New Year, be prepared to get involved!