Caroline Martini is the Volunteer Coordinator for the Milwaukee Habitat construction sites. Since 1984, Habitat's small staff of 8, volunteers and new homeowners have built over 600 homes. These homes create significant improvements for the immediate area.
Milwaukee Habitat revitalizes entire neighborhoods, block by block, with the goal of decreasing crime, increasing community engagement, and creating a vibrant sustainable neighborhood “where everyone has a decent place to live”.
Offering a hand up versus a handout, Habitat homeowners help build their own homes and pay an affordable $600-$900 per month mortgage, that fosters housing longevity.
Did you know that:
- Habitat homes have a 35% increase in graduation rates versus the average MPS student.
- Nearly 60% of Milwaukee renters are currently living in unaffordable housing paying up to 70% of their income just to cover the rent, leaving little left over for education, savings, or even basic needs.
- Milwaukee Habitat combats the city’s affordable housing crisis by providing families with an affordable path to safe and stable housing.
- Studies show: Safe, affordable housing leads to improved health, education, and financial stability.
- Homes are not a gift. Perspective homeowners are required to meet the criteria of being a first-time homeowner, spending more than 50% of their income on rent. Homeowners must be able to afford the mortgage and are willing to put in 300 hours of "sweat equity" on their home.
- Crime rate in Habitat neighborhoods have a 46% reduction and a 25% increase in home value.
- Homeowners are provided with classes on finances, budgeting, and home maintenance.
- Volunteers provide 60,000 hours building homes and volunteering at the three Restore facilities.
- The plan for 2023 is to build 30 homes. In 2022 the Elmbrook Rotary was involved in three builds. The build sites have a construction team member who will provide tools, construction materials, safety items and instruction for the day’s tasks. The day starts at 8:00am and ends at 3:00pm. Wear clothes and shoes that can get dirty and bring your own lunch and folding chair
- Jackson Bubolz has been an active leader along with other Rotarians in volunteering. Keep an ear out for more projects in Fall when ladders aren't required
- Another way to support Habitat is to donate items to one of three Restore sites, or volunteer Tuesday thru Sat. 10am to 2pm or 2pm to 6pm. 100% of the $3.5 million proceeds go directly to the construction of the homes
- Habitat has a donation program consisting of one-time employer match or a legacy gift giving
If you are interested in learning more about this great organization, visit www.milwaukeehabitat.org to see the many opportunities to volunteer, donate or give support.
Thank you, Elmbrook Rotary, for your years of support in giving freely of your time and labor.
