Our Organization of the Month for January was Habitat for Humanity. While many have heard of this organization, few may know the extent of their community impact.

So what is Habitat for Humanity?

Habitat for Humanity of Dane County exists to build and rehabilitate houses with the goal of providing affordable housing in West Madison, Sun Prairie, Fitchburg, and Oregon. It is part of a larger international organization by the same name—each with the intent to disrupt the cycle of poverty housing.

How can I help out Habitat for Humanity?

We are donating 1% of our proceeds from January to this deserving organization. Donations for Habitat for Humanity will help to build houses and therefore build stronger communities in Dane Country. But monetary donations are just part of the bigger picture that makes Habitat for Humanity an operational non-profit. The organization is dependent on the generosity of volunteers that collectively put thousands of hours of physical labor into the construction sites. In 2016, Habitat for Humanity of Dane County logged over 65,000 volunteer hours. To give you some perspective, that’s over 2,000 days worth of hours—in just one year!

That sounds awesome and I want to help. How do I sign up?

Looking to have a hands-on impact in our community? We feel you! Habitat for Humanity makes it easy for individuals and groups alike to volunteer. There are often specific volunteer opportunities for the construction sites—many of which are coming up soon! So grab some teammates and help to (literally) build your community.

Short Stack had the great pleasure of joining forces with this inspiring organization for a day in fall 2015. You’ll find some photos of us below.

What other cool things does Habitat for Humanity do?

If you haven’t been to either of the ReStore locations (Odana Road or Monona Drive in Madison), you should check them out! ReStore sells new and used building items for discounted prices—with all proceeds from the stores benefitting Habitat for Humanity. They are also increasing their positive impact by decreasing their environmental impact through the brilliantly conscious Deconstruction Services. It’s basically recycling for the home—where your trash just might be someone else’s treasure. Pretty neat, huh?