Owning a home represents not only the realization of a dream, but also a powerful testament to determination and faith, and nobody understands this better than Hiwot. Hiwot, an Ethiopian mother of four, came to the United States to provide better opportunities for her children and herself.

For Evelyn, who has called her Habitat house ‘home’ for over 30 years, having a home has provided stability for her family. Over three decades ago, Evelyn, a single mother with two young daughters, found herself at a crossroads, searching for stability and a place to call her own. She was renting a home that wasn't in the best shape.

For over 35 years, Central Valley Habitat has been tirelessly working to address the need for affordable housing in our community. Our Annual Banquet unites the community to celebrate past victories and the families who are now in stable homes, but it's not just a reflection on achievements. We also come together to look ahead to the coming year and the work still to be done.

Every year, Bridgewater Retirement Community celebrates Founders Day to commemorate another year of providing vital services. This year, the celebration took on a special meaning as it became a volunteer effort with Bridgewater Retirement Community Residents and Staff working together. We caught up with Craig Landis, a dedicated board member of Bridgewater Retirement Community and an active participant in our Critical Home Repair Program, to highlight the importance of this event.

What used to be a few large piles of dirt has been completely developed into the first four units on Suter St., marking a significant milestone in our mission to provide safe and affordable housing in Harrisonburg, Virginia. New homeowners actively participating in the construction are expected to purchase and occupy their homes by the end of July.

Sponsorship support was in full swing at the 4th Annual Golf Tournament. We are honored that so many people and organizations showed up again to give back to the community in a relaxed and fun event that we look forward to every year.

Sometimes, we only know what we take for granted once it becomes challenging. For Penny Halterman, a typical evening at home took a dramatic twist when navigating the stairs; she tripped over her cat and tumbled to the bottom. The fall left her with a broken leg, which was accompanied by some challenges and a what-if: What if Penny had something to lean on?

Behind each project lies a story of compassion, skill, and the willingness to lend a helping hand. We’re reminded of the importance of volunteers like Caleb Jarrels, a refrigeration mechanic at Riddleberger Brothers, Inc., whose dedication to community service has made a tangible difference in the lives of others.

In the heart of the Suter St project, Central Valley Habitat for Humanity is weaving dreams into the very fabric of our community. As we embark on our most ambitious housing endeavor to date — constructing 11 homes across 4 duplexes and a triplex — the spirit of collaboration takes center stage.

Our mission at Central Valley Habitat is rooted in the belief that everyone deserves a decent place to live, echoing the dreams and aspirations of countless individuals longing for stability and security. As we strive to turn these dreams into reality, the support we receive from our generous partners becomes the foundation upon which we build homes and transform lives.

A single set of keys can change the way we see the world. Despite their small size, a set of keys has the power to unlock not just doors, but an entire universe of possibilities. Homeownership is the cornerstone upon which countless dreams find their footing. It's the promise of a yard where laughter echoes, a cozy bed where dreams are nurtured, and the canvas on which the masterpiece of a happy, fulfilling life is painted.

Home means different things to different people, and for Charmeigne, it's more than just bricks and mortar. The stability that affordable housing offered Charmeigne and her daughter made all of the difference in their lives. With affordable housing, she has built equity and a secure haven for her family.

On September 10th, 2023, we had the pleasure of celebrating two local families' dreams coming true at our House Dedication at the new Virginia Avenue duplex.

Earlier this month, we celebrated our 35th anniversary with 411 staff, volunteers, trade partners, donors, and local government officials at Hotel Madison. Our Annual Banquet is not only a fundraising event, it is an annual reunion, where members of the Habitat family come together to express their appreciation.

Life's challenges often present us with unexpected hurdles, testing our strength and resolve. For David and Nancy Carr, these challenges became even more profound when Nancy was diagnosed with bone cancer. Reflecting on the journey, David recalls, "I'm really thankful for Habitat because they made her quality of life so much better, especially when she could only leave the house in the wheelchair." The Carrs' story is a shining example of how Habitat for Humanity's Critical Home Repair program doesn't just repair houses; it repairs lives.

The current rental and housing market is a difficult landscape to navigate, but Arielle is no stranger to difficult circumstances. As a single mom working hard to create a better future for her and her son, Arielle has persevered through many obstacles. The Homeownership program at Central Valley Habitat for Humanity is a solution to the affordable housing crisis that plagues many people in our area.

Central Valley Habitat hosts a golf tournament each spring, raising funds to support ongoing operational costs to run the affiliate. The event also serves as an opportunity to celebrate the many General Contractors, Sub-Contractors, and other contributors in the finance and construction industries, affectionately known as ‘Trade Partners.’ Our Trade Partners generosity allows Central Valley Habitat to provide low-cost, interest-free mortgages to families in our community.

Our Critical Home Repair Program aims to provide repairs and renovations to the homes of homeowners like Charity. The program prioritizes repairs that are necessary for the health and safety of the homeowners, accessibility, and the weatherization of the home; as well as repairs that will have the greatest impact on the value of the home.

Rehab Hands for Habitat is a wonderful example of people coming together in our community to build homes and hope for families. Jim Wampler, with Wampler & Associates Rehabilitation, started this informal group a few years ago to make an impact at Habitat. It is made up of individuals and businesses in the community who want to give back either financially or through volunteerism to help build a Habitat home.

This project represents a new and unique partnership between a private developer, and Central Valley Habitat for Humanity. This partnership is intended to address the need for affordable housing in our area. Upon completion this development will provide 21 homes.