Part of Impact100 South Jersey’s goal is to partner with grantees beyond transformative grant making. Impacting organizations Beyond the Check is an important aspect of Trust Based Philanthropy. To that end, several members participated in 2 of 2023 grantee Habitat for Humanity’s work.
Habitat Build
Three Impact100 SJ members assisted the construction staff of our 2023 grantee Camden County Habitat for Humanity in installing windows in a Camden row home that will be sold to a family to help them achieve the strength, stability and independence they need to build a better life.
Michele Susson, Lindsey Cowperthwait, and Valerie Buickerood worked with construction manager Tony Wideman and his assistant Will to weather seal and install windows and to board them up upon completion to ensure they remain intact while other work continues. It was a great experience for the 3 volunteers who learned not only valuable skills, but also about the Homeownership Program and how Habitat for Humanity makes it happen. Our grant enabled them to purchase materials and support the work needed to be done by other contractors, such as electricians, plumbers, and HVAC companies. This ensures that the homes are ready to meet code, pass inspections, and are safe for incoming families.
ReStore
Habitat for Humanity relies on sales at their ReStore locations, individual donations, grants, and volunteers to make this program happen! Toward that end, on October 7th Sue Polikoff and Abby Cohler spent the morning organizing and merchandising in various departments of the ReStore. In addition to receiving donations from the community they also receive pallets of overstock from stores like Target. Habitat has been in their Pennsauken location for a few years, having relocated from Lawnside. Working with store manager Brittani, Sue and Abby learned more about Habitat as she has a rooted history with Habitat. Brittani and her family are currently owners of a previous Habitat home build. Brittani also shared about a program where people can volunteer their time as part of a worker’s compensation program when they are unable to work at their current job. Revenue from the store is necessary for the ongoing operation. As a bonus, Sue and Abby found some hidden treasures, thus contributing with purchases as well.
Volunteers are not only encouraged but also vital to the work. If you are interested, please contact Brittani: 856-963-8018, Ext. 110 and email is brittani.bailey@habitatcamden.org
