This story is sponsored by Habitat for Humanity of Knox County, Ohio.
There are many different ways to change the world. Practicing gratitude, taking care of the environment, even giving someone a hug who may really need it. At Habitat for Humanity in Knox County, they like to make a difference one home at a time.
The nonprofit organization has made its mark in the area since 1987, helping over 30 families and building 29 homes so far.
“Our mission is to ensure every family has a decent and affordable place to call home,” Affiliate Director at Habitat for Humanity of Knox County Terry Schulz said.
This mission is achieved by selecting an applicant for a home build based on three criteria: the need for housing, the ability to pay an affordable mortgage and the willingness to partner.
The construction process takes six to eight months to complete, but families put in sweat equity six months before construction begins on their home, being part of the journey each step of the way.
“This is part of our hand up, not a handout mentality. Everything we do, the families work for. When they finally take possession and they have the house keys, it really feels like the house they worked really hard for,” Schulz said.
To be able to continue changing the lives of families in the Knox community, the mortgage payments made on previously built houses all go towards creating a new home for a family in need. But, the main source of income for the building projects comes from the Habitat for Humanity ReStore.
Since 2017, the ReStore has supplied the community with second hand donated items to purchase including doors, windows, furniture, sinks, lights, fans, toilets, appliances and much more.
The reason Habitat for Humanity of Knox County has been able to do what we’ve done to this point is largely due to the ReStore,” Schulz said.
According to manager of the ReStore Keith Hughes, the space is about 10,000 square feet and they are just about to outgrow it.
“We are keeping things out of landfills,” Hughes said. “This is an ongoing operation and it will continue to grow with help from the community.”
The donation of time also helps to keep the ReStore up and running. There are about 10 regular volunteers who come weekly to help in any way they can whether it is rearranging the store, picking up donations or helping to unload trucks bearing inventory for the store.
Among the many volunteers is Jack Scott, a 94 year old man who dedicates time everyday the ReStore is open to help. He has become a staple at the organization, a cutout version of him roams around the store keeping a watchful eye and holding signs to tell customers what the sales are.
There are also a couple of volunteers such as Mike McAlpin who recycle wood and build birdhouses, picnic tables, park benches and more to sell in the store.
“We always need volunteers and we always need donations,” Hughes said.
There are many ways to get involved with Habitat for Humanity of Knox County to help make a difference. With spring clean underway, donate the no longer needed or wanted items to the ReStore. The organization takes new and gently used home and home improvement items, but note there are some pieces they turn away such as mattresses, box springs, paint and baby items.
Volunteering at job sites is another great way to engage with the nonprofit. No experience is required, just a willingness to help. Monetary donations are also accepted and will stay within Knox County to help support local families in need.
“What we do is a ripple effect that works throughout the entire community. It’s a pebble and we understand that we help only one family at a time, but we can feel the waves it makes in the community,” Schulz said.
Habitat for Humanity is open on Wed. from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Thurs. through Sat. from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Pick up donations are every Tuesday for larger items and can be scheduled in advance.
For more information about Habitat for Humanity of Knox County ReStore, click here or call (740) 392-9214. For more information on Habitat’s programs call 740-324-5407.
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