Rupert, WV (November 11, 2011) — Almost Heaven Habitat for Humanity officially kicked off its Veterans Initiative today, bringing members of the community together to assist with a critical home repair for 79-year-old veteran Lonzo (“Lon”) Martin. During a noontime ceremony at Mr. Martin’s home, members of the Almost Heaven Habitat team were on hand to announce the program and explain the first project in the program.

“Almost Heaven Habitat for Humanity has been serving veterans and their families for many years.  That has not changed.  However, we discovered that in recent years we have been serving even more veteran and military families, and we have decided to take a directed approach to serving them,” explained Liz Warner, Chief Operations Officer for the Habitat affiliate that serves the Eastern WV counties of Greenbrier, Pendleton and Pocahontas.  “As part of our new effort to proactively reach out to Veterans, we are developing a closer relationship with VA clinics and other veterans groups to ensure more veterans like Mr. Martin, who have fallen on hard times and have fallen through the cracks, get back on their feet and not only live their lives with dignity and respect, but also feel a valued member of the community.”

Affordable housing solutions for Veterans and military members have become a priority in U.S. policy over the last year, and Habitat for Humanity is a key organization in providing those solutions.  Almost Heaven HFH has received an infusion of financial support to launch their program, specifically grant support from The Home Depot Foundation’s Repair Corps program.

“We are committed to ensuring that every veteran has a safe place to call home,” said Kelly Caffarelli, president, The Home Depot Foundation.  “Habitat for Humanity has its finger on the pulse of the needs of homeowners in communities nationwide, and we know that through our joint Repair Corps program, we’ll be able to identify and help veterans whose homes are in critical need of repair.”

Almost Heaven Habitat for Humanity is one of thirty-six Habitat affiliates in 21 states across the country that have been selected to participate in an $800,000 pilot program managed by Habitat for Humanity International.  Repair Corps grants will pay for needed home repairs from insulation and weather stripping to the installation of wheelchair ramps and renovated bathrooms and doorways to accommodate disabled veterans.  Larger repairs such as roofing, electrical, plumbing, HVAC and structural improvements will also be available.  The program is designed under the same model as new homes built for Habitat families where the veteran will repay the zero interest loan necessary for these repairs, which is then deposited into a revolving fund to assist additional families in need of decent housing.

“The beauty of this program and its initial funding from The Home Depot Foundation is the revolving loan fund that will result, so that we can continue to serve even more veterans and their families in the years to come,” remarked Michelle Connor, Chief Executive Officer of the Almost Heaven Habitat affiliate.  Contributions to the Veterans Initiative from members of the community are welcomed and can be put to immediate use.

Introducing Lon Martin during the kick off ceremony at his home was Karen Armstrong, Almost Heaven Habitat’s Director of Family Services.  Karen shared the background of Mr. Martin’s military service to our country, as well as the story of his family and married life.  Lon’s wife of 18 years, Edna, passed away earlier this year due to a massive stroke.

Lon has wonderful memories of his years with Edna in their home and it grieves him even more to think that he can’t do anything to make it better.  “I just can’t thank you enough for even considering helping me in this way,” said Lon tearfully. “Edna was my life and it seemed as if everything was falling apart without her.  You have brought hope and a ray of sunshine back into my life. Thank you!”  The roof on his house leaks in several places and the ceiling is beginning to pull apart in two of the rooms. The repair work that began today on Mr. Martin’s home will continue over the coming weeks.

About Almost Heaven Habitat for Humanity

Almost Heaven Habitat for Humanity has served Eastern West Virginia for over 20 years providing safe, decent, affordable homes to hundreds of families. Habitat for Humanity partners with volunteers and low-income Partner Families to build or renovate houses that are then sold to the partner families at no profit, with no interest charged on the mortgage.   For more information, or to donate or volunteer, visit www.almostheavenhabitat.org.

About Habitat for Humanity International

Habitat for Humanity International is an ecumenical Christian ministry that welcomes to its work all people dedicated to the cause of eliminating poverty housing. Since its founding in 1976, Habitat has built, rehabilitated, repaired or improved more than 400,000 houses worldwide, providing simple, decent and affordable shelter for more than 2 million people. For more information, or to donate or volunteer, visit habitat.org.

About The Home Depot Foundation

The Home Depot Foundation is committed to ensuring that every U.S. military veteran has a safe place to call home. In April 2011, the Foundation pledged a three-year, $30 million initiative to address veteran’s critical housing needs. Since its formation in 2002, The Home Depot Foundation has granted more than $270 million to nonprofit organizations improving homes and lives in local communities. To learn more and see our associates in action, visit www.homedepotfoundation.org, follow us on Twitter @homedepotfdn, and like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/homedepotfoundation. 

Washington, DC (Oct. 6, 2011) — The weekend of September 24-25, Almost Heaven staff and supporters attended the U.S. Department of Energy’s Solar Decathlon on the National Mall. The Solar Decathlon, first held in 2002, is a biennial collegiate competition open to the public. Visitors can tour the houses, gather ideas to use in their own homes and learn how energy-saving features can help them save money today.

The U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon is an award-winning program that challenges collegiate teams to design, build, and operate solar-powered houses that are cost-effective, energy-efficient, and attractive. The winner of the competition is the team that best blends affordability, consumer appeal, and design excellence with optimal energy production and maximum efficiency.

The purposes of the Decathlon include educating student participants and the public about the many cost-saving opportunities presented by clean-energy products, and demonstrating to the public the opportunities presented by cost-effective houses that combine energy-efficient construction and appliances with renewable energy systems that are available today.

Almost Heaven Habitat for Humanity staff, Michelle Connor, John Connor, Fred Laird and Karen Laird; Habitat for Humanity supporters from Pendleton County, Bob Bittner and Lynn Lewis along with Habitat’s Home Energy Rater, Ben Meredith from Harrisonburg, VA attended the event to learn more about energy efficient construction practices, solar thermal and solar PV panel installation, natural day lighting strategies, water conservation, grey water treatment, smart design and sustainability.

“The trip was very worthwhile and it exceeded our expectations,” said Michelle Connor, Executive Director of Almost Heaven Habitat for Humanity.  “Many of the technologies are ones that are easily purchased from local building suppliers and we are eager to implement some of them into our current energy-efficient building and repair practices,” continued Connor.

The Solar Decathlon event not only showcases the houses designed by the competitors, but also provides other attractions geared towards homeowners, consumers and building industry professionals.  The “Energy and Your Home” interactive display area included a wind turbine and demonstration on solar technology and efficient lighting as well as Energy 101 and “home energy assessment” tips.  The event also provided free workshops on topics such as industry trends in sustainable building design, solar systems for residential installation and building efficient, affordable homes.

Almost Heaven Habitat for Humanity has made a commitment to energy-efficient construction and green building practices.  All of the homes the organization builds in partnership with low-income families meet not only Energy Star standards, but also the advanced energy efficient certification of EarthCraft.  The organization seeks to be a model green builder in the affordable housing industry and to be an advocate for the growing green building movement in West Virginia. To find out more about Almost Heaven Habitat for Humanity’s green building practices and commitment go to www.almostheavenhabitat.org/green_build.

About Almost Heaven Habitat for Humanity

Almost Heaven Habitat for Humanity has served Eastern West Virginia for over 20 years providing safe, decent, affordable homes to hundreds of families. Habitat for Humanity partners with volunteers and low-income Partner Families to build and renovate houses that are then sold to the partner families at no profit, with no interest charged on the mortgage.   For more information, or to donate or volunteer, visit www.almostheavenhabitat.org.

Franklin, WV (Oct. 3, 2011) — Habitat for Humanity will mark a major milestone Oct. 3 when it dedicates its 500,000th house in Maai Mahiu, Kenya, and begins construction on its 500,001st house in Paterson, N.J. Volunteers and homeowners from Almost Heaven Habitat for Humanity will join in celebrating the milestones as part of events being held worldwide to mark World Habitat Day.

Almost Heaven Habitat for Humanity is among the more than 2,300 Habitat affiliates worldwide that have made this milestone possible, having built 120 houses in Pendleton, Pocahontas and Greenbrier Counties since its founding in 1988.

We are happy to have helped Habitat for Humanity reach this important milestone in bettering communities across the country,” said Michelle Connor, Executive Director. “With continued support of our sponsors and volunteers, we’ll address affordable housing needs in Greenbrier, Pocahontas and Pendleton Counties.”

This year Almost Heaven Habitat for Humanity embarked on a Neighborhood Revitalization program in Greenbrier and Pendleton Counties.  The organization began the revitalization work in a White Sulphur Springs neighborhood with the completion of the first all women build house in May.  The revitalization work will continue through 2013.

The milestone houses represent the steady increase in Habitat for Humanity’s scale and scope to help more families in need of decent, affordable housing. In 2005, Habitat celebrated its 200,000th house. Six years later, Habitat for Humanity has more than doubled that number through new, rehabilitated, repaired and improved homes.

“It is a testament to the power of what God can do when people come together to build homes, communities and hope,” said Jonathan Reckford, CEO of Habitat for Humanity International. “I am so grateful to all of the volunteers, donors and advocates who share our vision of a world where everyone has a decent place to live.”

In Kenya, Habitat for Humanity will complete the 500,000th house on Oct. 3 in partnership with families who were displaced after post-election violence erupted in the country in late 2007.  That same day, volunteers will raise the walls on Habitat’s 500,001st house in Paterson, N.J. The house will be built in one of the inner-city neighborhoods where Paterson Habitat for Humanity has been continuously building since 1984.

Habitat for Humanity is a worldwide organization that operates in nearly 80 countries, including all 50 states in the United States, the District of Columbia, Guam and Puerto Rico. Thanks to Habitat for Humanity’s help, a family somewhere in the world improves its housing situation every 7 minutes of every hour of every day of the year. In 2010, Habitat for Humanity served a record 74,960 families in need.

About Almost Heaven Habitat for Humanity

Almost Heaven Habitat for Humanity has served Eastern West Virginia for over 20 years providing safe, decent, affordable homes to hundreds of families. Habitat for Humanity partners with volunteers and low-income Partner Families to build and renovate houses that are then sold to the partner families at no profit, with no interest charged on the mortgage.   For more information, or to donate or volunteer, visit www.almostheavenhabitat.org.

About Habitat for Humanity International

Habitat for Humanity International is a global nonprofit Christian housing organization that seeks to put God’s love into action by bringing people together to build homes, communities and hope.  Since 1976, Habitat has served more than 500,000 families without regard to religion, race, gender or nationality by constructing, rehabilitating or repairing homes; by advocating for fair and just housing policies; and by providing training and access to financing to help families improve their shelter conditions. For more information, to donate or to volunteer, please visit www.habitat.org, or follow us at www.facebook.com/habitat or at www.twitter.com/habitat_org or join Habitat’s blog community at www.habitat.org/blog.

Franklin, WV (Sep. 12, 2011) — Almost Heaven Habitat for Humanity has been selected to participate in a national green-building initiative of The Home Depot Foundation and Habitat for Humanity International, called Partners in Sustainable Building.

Almost Heaven Habitat for Humanity is one of 125 Habitat affiliates across 38 states and the District of Columbia that was selected to participate in this year’s program. The organization will be granted $5,000 for each home built to standards that address energy efficiency, water conservation, improved Indoor air quality standards, and durability & bulk moisture management.

“The generosity of The Home Depot Foundation will help Habitat for Humanity sustain its energy efficient and green-building practices,” said Michelle Connor, Executive Director of Almost Heaven Habitat for Humanity. “We are in the business of building and repairing homes with families in need and Home Depot is a great partner to have in this endevour”

Almost Heaven Habitat for Humanity has been committed to building energy efficient homes since 2000 when it abandoned traditional stick frame construction.  In 2009, the organization made a commitment to build 100% of its homes to meet not only Energy Star standards, but also the advanced energy efficient certification of EarthCraft.  To find out more about Almost Heaven Habitat for Humanity’s green building practices and commitment go to www.almostheavenhabitat.org/green_build.

Since its creation in 2008, the Home Depot Foundation’s Partners in Sustainable Building program has demonstrated that the initial costs of building to a green standard are modest and can be recovered by the homebuyers through savings on utility, repair and replacement costs over the course of a home’s mortgage.

“The Home Depot Foundation has long believed that green building is smart building,” said Kelly Caffarelli, president of The Home Depot Foundation. “In today’s economic climate, energy efficient building practices, including sealing windows and doors, insulating walls and ceilings, and installing ENERGY STAR appliances and systems, are more important than ever, because they can actually put money back into homeowners’ wallets.  Our partnership with Habitat for Humanity demonstrates that smart building ensures the long term financial and physical health of families.”

“The Partners in Sustainable Building program has created excitement about the benefits of building to a recognized green standard within Habitat for Humanity,” said Jonathan Reckford, CEO of Habitat for Humanity International. “With the support of The Home Depot Foundation, we have a great opportunity to bring the economic benefits of sustainable building to our homeowners all across the country.”

About The Home Depot Foundation

Since its formation in 2002, The Home Depot Foundation has granted more than $270 million to nonprofit organizations improving homes and lives in local communities. To learn more and see our associates in action, visit www.homedepotfoundation.org

About Habitat for Humanity International

Habitat for Humanity International is an ecumenical Christian ministry that welcomes to its work all people dedicated to the cause of eliminating poverty housing. Since its founding in 1976, Habitat has built more than 400,000 houses worldwide, providing simple, decent and affordable shelter for more than 2 million people. For more information, visit habitat.org.

About Almost Heaven Habitat for Humanity

Almost Heaven Habitat for Humanity has served Eastern West Virginia for over 20 years providing safe, decent, affordable homes to hundreds of families. Habitat for Humanity partners with volunteers and low-income Partner Families to build and renovate houses that are then sold to the partner families at no profit, with no interest charged on the mortgage.   For more information, or to donate or volunteer, visit www.almostheavenhabitat.org.

For more information, contact:

Michelle Connor, Exective Director/CEO
Almost Heavn Habitat for Humanity
304-358-7642
mconnor@almostheavenhabitat.org

Habitat for Humanity International

Kerry Kirkley
404-962-3440
kkirkley@habitat.org

The Home Depot Foundation

Paula Drake
941-488-1289
paula_drake@homedepot.com

Catherine Woodling
770-384-2304
Catherine_woodling@homedepot.com

FRANKLIN, W. Va., (August 29, 2011) — This summer seven local youths dedicated 8 weeks of their summer vacation to serving Pendleton County by participating in Almost Heaven Habitat for Humanity’s Summer Internship Program. Many traded trips to the beach and higher paying jobs for long days in the sun serving local families in need.

Almost Heaven Habitat for Humanity launched their Summer Internship Program five years ago in an effort to engage local youth in community service projects.

“We wanted to tap into the often overlooked potential of youth bringing new ideas and energy into our organization,” says Michelle L. Connor, C.E.O. of Almost Heaven Habitat for Humanity. “We learned a lot from these young adults over these past eight weeks and they learned a good bit about construction practices, volunteer management, responsibility and leadership.”

The interns worked for eight weeks performing various hands-on tasks including working in the office, registering volunteers, counting inventory in the warehouse, and physically building houses on a handful of the construction sites throughout Pendleton County.  There were long hot workdays and plenty of hard work, but there was also time for reflection and making new friends.

“These young adults were really amazing,” says Evan Zuverink, a political science and communications graduate student at Marshall University, who spent his summer working with Almost Heaven Habitat for Humanity through the Community Works of West Virginia leadership program.  Among other roles, Evan coordinated the summer internship program for the organization. “To have such a vested interest in their community at their age is all but unheard of. These seven individuals truly embody servant leadership and I am proud to have worked with them this summer,” continued Evan.

The future of the Habitat movement and our community lies with young people,” says Connor, “Our efforts today should be directed toward fostering service to others in our youth. These young folks will one day be the leaders of our community. Two of the Summer Interns served in the program last year – Emma Van Scoy and Ryan Niblins. We appreciate their renewed commitment.”

This was the fifth year of the program and it was open to highly motivated young adults ages 17-25. Almost Heaven Habitat for Humanity is already planning for its 2012 Summer Internship Program.

Throughout its 20 -year history, Almost Heaven Habitat fort Humanity has hosted more than 15,000 students to build and repair homes in Pendleton County.  During this time, students have helped to raise more than $2 million to pay for construction. This year alone, over 1,000 students have volunteered their time to help build 5 new homes, renovate 2 existing homes, and perform repairs on 14 additional homes.

The seven youth adults that participated were Emma Van Scoy, a sophomore at Pierpont Community and Technical College; Amanda Villalobos, a sophomore at Marshall University; Ryan Niblins, a sophomore at West Virginia University; Rachaud Maddox, a sophomore at Fairmont University; Amy Wimer, Alumni of Shepherd University; CJ Malcolm, a Freshman at South Branch Community and Technical College; and Tim Windett, who graduated from South Brach Career and Technical College this past May.

About Almost Heaven Habitat for Humanity

Almost Heaven Habitat for Humanity has served Eastern West Virginia for over 20 years providing safe, decent, affordable homes to hundreds of families. Habitat for Humanity partners with volunteers and low-income Partner Families to build or renovate houses that are then sold to the partner families at no profit, with no interest charged on the mortgage.   For more information, to donate or volunteer, visit www.almostheavenhabitat.org.

White Sulphur Springs, WV (August 5, 2011) — Almost Heaven Habitat for Humanity partnered with The Greenbrier Classic and Prom Management to provide concessions at Hole 1 of The Greenbrier Classic. The Classic, part of the PGA TOUR Fedex Cup Series, took place last week at The Greenbrier Resort in White Sulphur Springs.

Habitat for Humanity volunteers served concessions at the first green Thursday, July 28th through Sunday, July 31^st.  In addition, Habitat volunteers worked various concession stands at the Tim McGraw, Keith Urban and Black-Eyed Peas concerts.  Volunteers filled 180 shifts between the tournament and concerts over a four-day period.

A portion from the proceeds at each venue will be donated to Habitat for Humanity.  The organization is hoping to raise $10,000, which will be invested in Almost Heaven Habitat for Humanity’s Summer Elms development in White Sulphur Springs.  Summer Elms is a 10-house development along Tuckahoe Road.  The first house, Habitat’s Women Build project, was built and dedicated this past spring.  Habitat for Humanity will begin construction on four homes on the site in 2012 and will add five more homes in 2013.

“Almost Heaven Habitat for Humanity was proud to partner with The PGA and The Greenbrier Resort to raise money for the housing ministry of Habitat for Humanity,” reported Michelle Connor, CEO of Almost Heaven HFH. “We saw this opportunity as philanthropy at its finest. Not only did we raise money to help families living in poverty, our volunteers enjoyed some great golf, fabulous music, and The Greenbrier Resort, while providing a critical service to thousands of spectators who came to the event.”

Habitat for Humanity is grateful for all the volunteers that came out to help.  Spectators who came by the first green for a hot dog and drink helped a family in need realize their dream of homeownership.  If you would like to learn more about Almost Heaven Habitat for Humanity and its mission, visit www.almostheavenhabitat.org or call 304-358-7642.

About Almost Heaven Habitat for Humanity

Almost Heaven Habitat for Humanity has served Eastern West Virginia for over 20 years providing safe, decent, affordable homes to hundreds of families. Habitat for Humanity partners with volunteers and low-income Partner Families to build or renovate houses that are then sold to the partner families at no profit, with no interest charged on the mortgage.   For more information, or to donate or volunteer, visit www.almostheavenhabitat.org.

Franklin, WV (May 9, 2011) — Almost Heaven Habitat for Humanity kicks off the AmeriCorps Build-a-Thon today, bringing 48 AmeriCorps National and VISTA members together for one week to work in Franklin, WV. As one of seven locations across the United States hosting Habitat for Humanity International’s annual AmeriCorps Build-a-Thon, Almost Heaven Habitat for Humanity hopes to bring awareness to the immediate need for affordable housing and to the expanded housing services available.

“This year, Habitat for Humanity’s AmeriCorps Build-a-thon will focus on Habitat’s Neighborhood Revitalization Initiative,” said Peter Rumsey, director, National Service, Habitat for Humanity International.  “This initiative encourages Habitat affiliates to continue to engage in local community-planning partnerships and serve more families through new construction, rehabilitation, weatherization and home repairs. By offering an expanded array of services, Habitat for Humanity hopes to help revitalize neighborhoods and create resilient communities.  AmeriCorps members are critical in helping to expand this program.”

Habitat’s Build-a-Thon events will take place during or around National AmeriCorps Week (May 14-21), a week the national service program’s governing organization, The Corporation for National and Community Service, sets aside to highlight the impact AmeriCorps members make every day in communities throughout the U.S. Other Build-a-Thon event sites include: Bay St. Louis, Miss.; Birmingham, Ala.; Seattle and King County, Wash.; Milwaukee, Wis.; Wilmington, Del.; and Pensacola, Fla.  

Throughout the course of this week, the AmeriCorps members will assist with the construction of nine energy-efficient single family attached homes in the 15 unit mansion-style townhouse complex called River Bend Gardens ; complete Critical Home Repairs and/or Brush With Kindness projects; and assist with blower-door testing on six new homes and two weatherization homes.  All projects will be located in the Painter’s Point neighborhood just south of Franklin.

“We have made great strides in Pendleton County, but there is still an enormous amount of work to be done,” said Michelle Connor, Executive Director, Almost Heaven Habitat for Humanity.  “As a host site for the 2011 AmeriCorps Build-a-Thon, we are grateful for the opportunity to serve even more local families and can’t emphasize enough how much of a difference national service members make not only in our community, but in all the communities they serve.”

Habitat has partnered with the Corporation for National and Community Service since 1994. Since then, more than 5,000 AmeriCorps members have served with Habitat for Humanity around the country, building homes, serving communities and gaining valuable perspective about the challenges that face our country and how to meet those needs.  

About Almost Heaven Habitat for Humanity
Almost Heaven Habitat for Humanity has served Eastern West Virginia for over 20 years providing safe, decent, affordable homes to hundreds of families. Habitat for Humanity partners with volunteers and low-income Partner Families to build or renovate houses that are then sold to the partner families at no profit, with no interest charged on the mortgage.   For more information, or to donate or volunteer, visit www.almostheavenhabitat.org.

About Habitat for Humanity International
Habitat for Humanity International is an ecumenical Christian ministry that welcomes to its work all people dedicated to the cause of eliminating poverty housing. Since its founding in 1976, Habitat has built, rehabilitated, repaired or improved more than 400,000 houses worldwide, providing simple, decent and affordable shelter for more than 2 million people. For more information, or to donate or volunteer, visit habitat.org.

About the Corporation for National and Community Service
The Corporation for National and Community Service is a federal agency that engages more than five million Americans in service through Senior Corps, AmeriCorps, Learn and Serve America and the Social Innovation Fund, and leads President Obama’s national call to service initiative, United We Serve. For more information, visit NationalService.gov.

About Habitat for Humanity National Service Programs
Habitat for Humanity AmeriCorps members have performed more than 5 million hours of service, engaged hundreds of thousands of volunteers and helped build more than 12,500 Habitat houses throughout the United States. For information about AmeriCorps programs, visit www.habitat.org/americorps or www.americorps.gov.

 

White Sulphur Springs, WV (May 3, 2010) — Almost Heaven Habitat for Humanity is looking for a few good women to join us at our current Women Build construction site in White Sulphur Springs to celebrate National Build Week. In the days leading up to Mother’s Day, construction crews of female volunteers will raise their hammers at Habitat for Humanity construction sites across the country in recognition of National Women Build Week, April 30 through May 8. Lowe’s and Almost Heaven Habitat for Humanity are looking for local women to volunteer for a day at the White Sulphur Springs Habitat construction site during this nine-day event. Construction or home improvement experience is not necessary.

Almost Heaven Habitat for Humanity has partnered with Laura Blevins, a local single mother of four who is currently homeless to build a safe, affordable home for her and her children.  The Women Build 2011 is a joint venture between Habitat for Humanity of West Virginia and Almost Heaven Habitat for Humanity, and it will be the first Habitat home in Greenbrier County built by all women.

Construction on the Women Build house began in March and will concluden on May 14^th with a House Dedication.   “We have experienced some construction delays due to the significant amounts of rain we have received this Spring,” says Courtney Jesser, Almost Heaven Habitat for Humanity’s Women Build Coordinator.  “So we opened up the schedule to include evenings as part of the work day because we have just under 2 weeks to finish the house,” she continued.

Individuals, church groups, community organizations, businesses and families are invited to come out and volunteer even if it is only for a couple of hours after the work day.  If anyone would like to learn more about volunteering on the Women Build project, please contact Almost Heaven Habitat for Humanity at 304-647-3342 or volunteer@almostheavenhabitat.org.

Almost Heaven Habitat for Humanity will celebrate National Women Build Week on Thursday, May 5^th. Enterprise Rent-a-Car, Davis-Stuart, Inc., Lowe’s Heroes and female volunteers in White Sulphur Springs will work on the Blevins family’s new home.  Lowe’s is providing Almost Heaven Habitat for Humanity a $5,000 Lowe’s store gift card, as well as in-store volunteer training, in support of this one-day build.

The Mother’s Day timeframe was selected for its significance to many volunteers. Families with children make up a staggering number of those in need of adequate housing. More than 12 million children – one in six – live in poverty housing in the United States alone.

To date, female volunteers have built more than 1,800 Habitat houses nationwide during National Women Build Week. Locally, this is the first Women Build event for Almost Heaven Habitat for Humanity.

National Women Build Week challenges women to devote at least one day in the effort to help eliminate poverty housing. The event, now in its fourth year, has drawn more than 20,000 female volunteers from all 50 states.

Lowe’s is contributing more than $1.3 million to National Women Build Week and providing $5,000 Lowe’s gift cards and building materials to more than 250 Habitat affiliates. National Women Build Week is one of the major initiatives supported through Lowe’s five-year, $20 million pledge to Habitat.

As the underwriter of the Women Build program since 2004, Lowe’s conducts how-to clinics at stores to teach women construction skills and empower them to support Habitat projects across the country. 

To volunteer or donate to this project, please call 304-647-3442, email womenbuild@almostheavenhabitat.org or visit www.almostheavenhabitat.org/womenbuild.php

About Almost Heaven Habitat for Humanity

Almost Heaven Habitat for Humanity has served Eastern West Virginia for over 20 years providing safe, decent, affordable homes to hundreds of families. Habitat for Humanity partners with volunteers and low-income Partner Families to build or renovate houses that are then sold to the partner families at no profit, with no interest charged on the mortgage.   For more information, or to donate or volunteer, visit www.almostheavenhabitat.org.

About Lowe’s

Lowe’s supports the communities it serves through programs that focus on K-12 public education and community improvement projects. The company’s signature education grant program, Lowe’s Toolbox for Education, has brought more than $5 million in grants to K-12 public schools every year since its inception in 2005. Lowe’s Heroes employee volunteers support local community projects and our national nonprofit partners such as Habitat for Humanity International and the American Red Cross. In 2010, Lowe’s and the Lowe’s Charitable and Educational Foundation together contributed more than $30 million to support communities in the United States, Canada and Mexico.  To learn more, visit Lowes.com/socialresponsibility.

About Habitat for Humanity International

Habitat for Humanity International is an ecumenical Christian ministry that welcomes to its work all people dedicated to the cause of eliminating poverty housing. Since its founding in 1976, Habitat has built, rehabilitated, repaired or improved more than 400,000 houses worldwide, providing simple, decent and affordable shelter for more than 2 million people. For more information, or to donate or volunteer, visit Habitat.org.

Franklin, WV (April 26, 2011) — Almost Heaven Habitat for Humanity will host more than 50 AmeriCorps National and VISTA members May 9th – 13th during Habitat for Humanity International’s annual AmeriCorps Build-a-Thon. Almost Heaven Habitat is one of seven locations hosting the event which is designed to highlight local community needs for affordable housing while celebrating the members’ service with Habitat.

“We are excited to be a 2011 Habitat for Humanity Build-a-Thon host,” said Michelle Connor, Executive Director of Almost Heaven Habitat for Humanity.  “The national service members make a difference everyday in the communities they serve and their work is going to have a lasting impact in the Painter’s Point neighborhood of Franklin.”

Each Build-a-Thon location is involved in Habitat’s Neighborhood Revitalization Initiative, a national Habitat for Humanity program that encourages Habitat affiliates to address the quality of life issues in neighborhoods through local community-planning partnerships and by expanding housing services beyond new house construction. 

During the event week, the AmeriCorps members will assist with the construction of nine energy-efficient single family attached homes in the 15 unit mansion-style townhouse complex called River Bend Gardens ; complete eight Critical Home Repairs and/or Brush With Kindness projects; and assist with blower-door testing on six new homes and two weatherization homes.  All projects will be located in the Painter’s Point neighborhood just south of Franklin.

In addition, AmeriCorps members will be able to experience wild and wonderful West Virginia with a couple of outdoor activity options.  Nelson Rocks Outdoor Center, a privately owned 145-acre nature preserve, in Pendleton County, WV will host volunteers one afternoon giving them the opportunity to experience the beauty of Pendleton County by way of the rock climbing adventure, the Via Ferrata or the zip line Canopy Tour.  Others will check out the grand scenery of Seneca Rocks.  “The Build-a-Thon is a great opportunity to help families in our community but also showcase the beauty of West Virginia, specifically sites in Pendleton County,” says John Connor, Director of Development for Almost Heaven Habitat for Humanity.

“Habitat’s Build-a-Thon project provides an opportunity for our nearly 440 AmeriCorps National and VISTA members to come together to share ideas and meet others committed to service and to eliminating poverty housing,” said Larry Gluth, Habitat for Humanity International’s senior vice president of U.S and Canada. “Our AmeriCorps members consistently play a pivotal role in the operations of more than 140 Habitat locations across the country, and their collective efforts have helped thousands of families obtain the dream of homeownership this year alone.  We are truly grateful for their service.”

Habitat’s Build-a-Thon events will take place during or around National AmeriCorps Week (May 14-21), a week the national service program’s governing organization, The Corporation for National and Community Service, sets aside to highlight the impact AmeriCorps members make every day in communities throughout the U.S.  Other Build-a-Thon event sites include: Bay St. Louis, Miss.; Birmingham, Ala.; Seattle and King County, Wash.; Milwaukee, Wis.; Wilmington, Del.; and Pensacola, Fla.

Habitat has partnered with the Corporation for National and Community Service since 1994. Since then, more than 5,000 AmeriCorps members have served with Habitat for Humanity around the country, building homes, serving communities and gaining valuable perspective about the challenges that face our country and how to meet those needs.  

About Almost Heaven Habitat for Humanity
Almost Heaven Habitat for Humanity has served Eastern West Virginia for over 20 years providing safe, decent, affordable homes to hundreds of families. Habitat for Humanity partners with volunteers and low-income Partner Families to build or renovate houses that are then sold to the partner families at no profit, with no interest charged on the mortgage.   For more information, or to donate or volunteer, visit www.almostheavenhabitat.org.

About Habitat for Humanity International
Habitat for Humanity International is an ecumenical Christian ministry that welcomes to its work all people dedicated to the cause of eliminating poverty housing. Since its founding in 1976, Habitat has built, rehabilitated, repaired or improved more than 400,000 houses worldwide, providing simple, decent and affordable shelter for more than 2 million people. For more information, or to donate or volunteer, visit habitat.org.

About the Corporation for National and Community Service
The Corporation for National and Community Service is a federal agency that engages more than five million Americans in service through Senior Corps, AmeriCorps, Learn and Serve America and the Social Innovation Fund, and leads President Obama’s national call to service initiative, United We Serve. For more information, visit NationalService.gov.

About Habitat for Humanity National Service Programs
Habitat for Humanity AmeriCorps members have performed more than 5 million hours of service, engaged hundreds of thousands of volunteers and helped build more than 12,500 Habitat houses throughout the United States. For information about AmeriCorps programs, visit www.habitat.org/americorps or www.americorps.gov.

White Sulphur Springs, WV (April 25, 2011) — April showers bring May flowers and construction delays. Unfortunately the heavy rains over the last month have slowed construction on Habitat for Humanity’s Women Build house in White Sulphur Springs. In light of the delay, Almost Heaven Habitat for Humanity has decided to postpone the House Dedication to Saturday, May 14^th at 11 am. 

Almost Heaven Habitat for Humanity has partnered with Laura Blevins, a local single mother of four who is currently homeless to build a safe, affordable home for her and her children.  The Women Build 2011 is a joint venture between Habitat for Humanity of West Virginia and Almost Heaven Habitat for Humanity, and it will be the first Habitat home in Greenbrier County built by all women.

“We are saddened that we will not be able to present Laura with keys in time for Mother’s Day, but we felt that presenting her keys to a completely move-in ready house was more important than the timing,” says Michelle Connor, Executive Director of Almost Heaven Habitat for Humanity.  “In an effort to finish the house by the 14^th, we are creatively looking for ways to get more volunteers out on the site,” continued Connor.

Habitat for Humanity relies on its partnership with volunteers to complete much of the construction on its projects.  The Women Build house has no lack of volunteers interested in helping out, but many of those volunteers work during the day.  In addition to the weather delays, it has been a challenge getting enough people out during regular business hours to complete the work necessary to stay on schedule. 

To increase volunteer participation, Almost Heaven Habitat for Humanity will be working evenings Monday through Friday on the Women Build house to accommodate those who have expressed interest in volunteering but are hindered by work and school schedules.  Almost Heaven Habitat for Humanity is very thankful for all the support the White Sulphur Spring and Lewisburg communities have shown for the Women Build house.  Projects such as this one are not possible without community involvement.

 “We invite individuals, church groups, community organizations, businesses and families to come out and volunteer even if it is only for a couple of hours after the work day.  This includes men.  We need all the help we can get,” says Courtney Jesser Women Build Coordinator.       

If anyone would like to learn more about volunteering on the Women Build project, please contact Almost Heaven Habitat for Humanity at 304-647-3342 or volunteer@almostheavenhabitat.org.

Almost Heaven Habitat for Humanity has served Eastern West Virginia for over 20 years providing safe, decent, affordable homes to hundreds of families. Habitat for Humanity partners with volunteers and low-income Partner Families to build or renovate houses that are then sold to the partner families at no profit, with no interest charged on the mortgage. 

Directions from points East: I-64 West to Exit 181. Turn RIGHT onto US 60 West for 1.1 miles. Turn LEFT onto Mountain Avenue for 0.5 mile. You will drive under I-64. Mountain Avenue becomes Tuckahoe Road; continue on Tuckahoe 0.3 mile. Site is on the left. Watch for the signs.

Directions from points West: I-64 East to Exit 175. Turn LEFT onto Co Route 60/14 Harts Run Road for 0.2 mile. Turn RIGHT onto US 60 East for 3.9 miles. Turn RIGHT onto Mountain Avenue for 0.5 mile. You will drive under I-64. Mountain Avenue becomes Tuckahoe Road; continue on Tuckahoe 0.3 mile. Site is on the left. Watch for the signs.