Habitat for Humanity is a nonprofit organization that uses volunteers to help build housing for members of the community.
Patch recently talked to Kathy Brogli, the community relations director for Habitat for Humanity of Hillsborough County Florida, Inc., about what her organization does and how the community can get involved.
Patch: What is the purpose and mission of Habitat for Humanity?
Brogli: Habitat for Humanity of Hillsborough County works in partnership with God and people from all walks of life to provide decent houses in which people can live and grow. At Habitat for Humanity of Hillsborough County Florida, Inc., our focus is on showing the love of God to first-time homebuyers and families in Hillsborough County by giving them a hand up, not a hand out. Habitat homebuyers must donate 300 "Sweat Equity" hours, be able to assist with closing costs, and make monthly mortgage payments. Habitat homes are sold to our homeowners at no profit with a no-interest mortgage.
Patch: How many families has the organization helped since it began? What year was it founded?
Brogli: Habitat Hillsborough has served approximately 135 families since we became a Habitat affiliate in 1987.
Patch: Why is the organization important for communities such as Carrollwood and Northdale?
Brogli: Habitat Hillsborough is important to affordable housing in Tampa because we provide a hand up to hard-working families, whether the family consists of one or more, who may not be able to qualify for an open-market mortgage. We empower our homeowners through education (knowledge and skills) and through the ability to realize the American dream of owning a home.
We are excited about our newest neighborhood, Providence Pointe, which is set to begin in Summer 2011. Providence Pointe is a 15-home community on the eastern shore of the Tampa Bypass Canal.
Patch: How can families qualify for a home from Habitat?
Brogli: Families must meet the following criteria: 1) Need for adequate or affordable shelter; 2) A steady, reliable source of income; 3) Ability to pay regular monthly mortgage payments; and 4) Willingness to partner and donate 300 sweat equity hours.
Patch: How can the community get involved if they want to volunteer?
Brogli: Potential volunteers may visit our website, www.HabitatHillsborough.com and click on the “Volunteer” button in the upper right-hand corner. Once they follow the registration instructions, they will be able to sign up for volunteer opportunities or meet material needs.
