interests: outreach

Habitat for Humanity International

www.habitat.org

SESC HFH Board Member and Events Chairperson

www.habitatcorning.org

I have been honored to be a board member for Southeastern Steuben County Habitat for Humanity for over five years. This is a local affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International, a global organization founded in 1976 as an ecumenical Christian housing ministry seeking to address the problem of poverty housing through volunteer action and advocacy. Today Habitat for Humanity has partnered with more than 200,000 families in providing decent, affordable housing in over 3000 communities worldwide, with the support of volunteers ranging from U.S. presidents to neighbors in your home town. I recently chaired the first community event fundraiser entitled “Hammer it Home in 2009”, which brought together a dedicated team of volunteers as well as local bands, restaurants, wineries and breweries.

I consider it an honor and privilege to be involved with Habitat Humanity. Being a part of an organization that makes such a profound difference in the lives of families is a blessing that I will always cherish. The self-respect, self-worth and self-assurance that the homes built by Habitat offer their owners is remarkable. I have deep respect for the volunteers for the difference they are making and the hope they are inspiring in so many!

Habitat for Humanity International (HFHI) COURSE

Course blog: www.echabitat.blogspot.com

In 2005 I developed a Term III course (6 weeks) for Elmira College, HUM1946, entitled “Habitat for Humanity”, which provided students with an organized and rewarding HFH mission/work trip to the following destinations: Robbins, TN, Greenville, MS, and Avon Park, FL. We spent time in each location, working and learning about the culture in the community.

A typical day began at 7 am and ended at around 3 or 4 pm. In the Mississippi and Florida locations, we had to end the day by 3 pm due to the extreme heat and humidity (88 degrees!!) On the weekends, our sightseeing included the Vicksburg Civil War Battle Ground, Washington, DC, the Lexington KY Horse Park, Nashville, and Memphis. The course was designed to engage students in meaningful community service, team building and U.S. cultural experiences.

Working in conjunction with Habitat for Humanity, the students implemented a coordinated series of work projects related to the HFH agency’s primary service of building homes for need-stricken areas. The course served a two-fold purpose: addressing community-based issues and needs, and developing leadership, problem-solving and practical skills related to managing community service projects. Our hands-on work included a full range of construction ranging from roofs and framing to windows, doors, siding, roofs, tiling, landscaping, plumbing, and finish work. We also delivered community outreach presentations to local schools and organizations.

I am also the co-advisor of the Elmira College Habitat for Humanity Club. The goals of this club are to educate and participate in community outreach events.

Women’s Fund

http://www.communityfund.org/FundForWomen.asp

I have become interested in Funds for Women, a group channeling the power of women’s philanthropy to support programs for women and girls. Founded in 2009 by a group of visionary women in Corning, its goal is to raise over a quarter-million dollars as an initial endowment to help women achieve economic self-sufficiency and reach their goals through programs in health, wellness, career, and life skills.

Other Charitable Interests