“Clinton County Habitat for Humanity has a big, hairy, audacious goal for 2016 — we want to build two homes in Wilmington in 2016,” said Jim Krusling, president of the board. The group must find a partner family and more volunteers by January.
“We have the funds to build through a CHIP grant, but, we urgently need a good family and more volunteers ASAP,” he explained. CHIP stands for Community Housing Impact and Preservation and is a program through the Ohio Development Services agency available through the end of 2016.
“Habitat is not a giveaway program; there is a no-interest loan,” Krusling clarified. “A family must have the ability to repay the loan through an affordable payment plan. They must partner with our organization in building their home and others — there is a sweat equity component to our partnership.”
For 2016, Clinton County Habitat for Humanity has made one family selection: Donovan Butler and Stephanie Oberlin. The foundation for their home on Paris Avenue in Wilmington has begun. If a second family can be found, Habitat would start that home in early spring.
Those interested in a home may call the Habitat office at 937-655-9484. Others may attend application information sessions planned for two Saturdays, Dec. 12 and 19 at the Habitat Restore on 1032 W. Main St., Wilmington from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
“For our group to build more than one home, is a real challenge in people resources. We will need the commitment of 20 workers who can build on Wednesdays and Saturdays as soon as the weather breaks this spring,” Krusling said. “The group is canvassing local organizations, businesses and churches to ensure that there will be plenty of hammers pounding nails. Those interested in volunteering should call: 937-655-9484.
“A volunteer doesn’t have to commit to two days a week, but it is important that we have some consistent workers on site,” said Krusling. “If each church, business or organization could commit one person a week, this plan is feasible.” Volunteers do not have to be skilled in the trades or have house building experience. There are mentors to teach the skills needed.
Krusling said that the opportunity to build two homes this summer comes when the group has smaller numbers of volunteers. “We have to be positive. This Big Hairy Audacious Goal will attract new volunteers and we can envision a future where more homes can be built.”
The search for family partner candidates is ongoing for all Clinton County communities. The group will serve all the County’s communities—in 2015, they built a home in Clarksville and in 2017, they are planning to build in Blanchester.
Habitat for Humanity is an international organization that builds decent, safe and affordable homes using volunteer labor and donations. They are the sixth largest home builder in the United States. Contributions to the organization can be made at Box Office 764, Wilmington, Ohio 45177.
