HFHSL Logo
Habitat for Humanity is one of the most well-known non-profit organizations among the public. Their mission to provide affordable housing is one that resonates deep within us all. People want to own a home. For some, it is one of the biggest dreams they have for their life.
I had the opportunity to interview Jacinta Witherspoon, Director of Resource Development, of the Saint Louis chapter, and she offered some in-depth insight on who and what Habitat of Humanity works for. I was surprised by everything they do for the public. It is far more than just building houses.
1. Tell me about a little about yourself and your role at Habitat for Humanity Saint Louis.
My name is Jacinta Witherspoon, and I am the Director of Resource Development for Habitat for Humanity Saint Louis (HFHSL). I provide executive leadership and strategic direction to the fund development, marketing, events, and volunteer services departments. I have been at HFHSL for 8 years and watched the organization work hard to serve more families each year.
Photo from Habitat for Humanity Saint Louis
2. What are some goals Habitat for Humanity St. Louis would like to achieve this year?
HFHSL work will continue until everyone has a decent place to live. Some goals for 2014, are to raise at least $2.0 million to serve at least 25 families in St. Louis City and County. To increase our number of partnerships with local communities and alderpersons, so that our reach of neighborhoods rises, therefore working families can more choices of where to purchase their affordable home. To spread the word to as many people as possible why the need for affordable housing still exists and how they can help make a difference in their own community.
3. Why do you feel your mission is important?
Habitat for Humanity-Saint Louis brings people together, to build homes, communities, and hope. Our mission is important because everyone deserves a decent place to live. Affordable homeownership is the cornerstone of a successful community. Numerous studies shown that homeownership builds higher academic achievement, more cohesive communities, better connected families, and a stronger economy. These benefits create a win for us all.
Interior of ReStore by HFHSL
4. What are some different programs that you have?
HFHSL has two programs (1) serving families through the construction or rehab of homes and (2) the ReStore program. Through the homeownership program, HFHSL partners with homebuyers of modest means (approximately 25-50% of the St. Louis median income). Homebuyers must be willing to partner with HFHSL by completing 350 sweat-equity volunteer hours per borrower, attend workshops (finance, budgeting & credit education; insurance; home maintenance; parenting; cooking and nutrition; and self-enhancement), and be willing and able to pay a 30-year mortgage on their homes.
More information about the ReStore is answered below.
5. What is ReStore?
The ReStore is a retail location that sells new and used building products to the public. Their mission is three-fold (1) Provide additional financial support for Habitat for Humanity Saint Louis, (2) Offer a lower-cost alternative to a traditional hardware store, (3) Facilitate reuse and waste reduction by diverting construction and household materials from landfills. In addition to being a retail location, the ReStore completes deconstructions on some residential properties. The HFHSL ReStore has diverted over 32,000 tons of building products from landfills. You buy a bargain at the ReStore, and we can build a house! There are lots of new and used treasures available at our two convenient locations, and each purchase helps build affordable housing in St. Louis City and County.
5. What are some upcoming events Habitat is holding?
There is always something going on at HFHSL.
• Sunday, May 11 we will host our annual Tulip Bulb Giveaway at ReStore Des Peres.
• Thursday, May 22 we will host our First Wall Ceremony in Spanish Lake.
• You can check out our News and Events Section for up to date information and events.
6. What’s the best way for people to get involved?
There are lots of ways to get involved with HFHSL. The local community can donate treasure or time, or buy a bargain, all which will help HFHSL serve more working families in need of decent affordable housing. The best way for people to get engaged is to check out our website, www.habitatstl.org. On our website, you can learn about how to donate gifts of cash, in-kind, or your time.
Photo by Amy Bulgrien
7. How can the public donate?
The public can make individual donations by visiting our website and clicking the “Donate” button on the top right corner. If people are interested in how to partner with HFHSL as a build sponsor, they can email [email protected] or call 314-371-0400 and ask to speak to Katie Harder or Jacinta Witherspoon.
8. Anything else you’d like us to know?
- Did you know that dollars given to Habitat for Humanity Saint Louis = homes built in St. Louis City and County?
- Did you know 100 percent of HFHSL homeowners purchased their homes by paying a mortgage?
- Did you know HFHSL is responsible for raising nearly 95% of its annual budget?
- Did you know HFHSL homeowners are teachers, healthcare providers, and returning college students determined to create a legacy?
- Did you know more than 5,000 people call HFHSL annually to purchase a home; only 25 homes are built each year. Our ability to serve is only limited by the amount contributed.
I want to thank Jacinta for sharing about Habitat for Humanity Saint Louis. To stay up-to-date with HFHSL, you can like them on Facebook or follow them on Twitter.
Inside Habitat for Humanity Saint Louis by Liz Carroll
