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Habitat for Humanity seeks more volunteers for June building season, fosters community spirit.

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Report for Habitat for Humanity in Idaho Falls
Habitat for Humanity

Since 1976, Habitat for Humanity has been striving to build and incorporate affordable housing for those who could use a helping hand. The non-profit is looking for more volunteers to help building homes while fostering a sense of community.  

“I have seen lives absolutely turned around once their housing needs are taken care of,” says Karen Lansing, the Executive Director of the nonprofit for the Idaho Falls area. “I have a wonderful lady who has been in her home for over 20 years now. The home is completely paid off. She raised four children in that home and, they've grown into wonderful adults, and they all have very professional jobs.” 

Lansing says Habitat for Humanity homes are built through sweat equity and volunteers. Families must go through an application process and be approved by Habitat’s board of directors. Once a person or family is approved for a house, they must spend at least 300 hours in building or renovating a home they will live in. They also have many volunteers who help with the project. The family also applies for the loan. 

Once they are finished, they are given an affordable interest-free loan to be paid off in a set time like 20 years. The money will be used to help acquire new materials to continue building homes and clean up existing ones.  

“It doesn't matter what your skillset is, you can come in and help in some manner,” Lansing says. “A lot of times just even bringing donuts to the build site and giving the volunteers a little bit of a break and incentive is a fun thing to do.” 

Habitat for Humanity is currently in the process of approving qualifying families. Construction for the new homes will start the first week of June. To help, visit the funding ReStore and for information on volunteer opportunities, visit 1954 North Yellowstone Highway in Idaho Falls. You can find out more at Idaho Falls Habitat for Humanity.