By Robert Farrell, Franchisee, EXIT Realty Homeward Bound, NY
Last fall, EXIT Realty Homeward Bound continued our tradition of supporting Broome County Habitat for Humanity for the 16th Year! With much support from our local vendors, mortgage companies, inspectors, and title companies, we were able to raise over $12,255.01 for our local chapter of Habitat for Humanity through our 16th Annual Charity Golf Outing at the En-joie Golf Club in Endicott NY. With the Spirit of EXIT contribution of $5,000, the amount given was increased to $17,255.01!
Broome County Habitat for Humanity is an affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International, a nonprofit organization that focuses on providing affordable housing solutions for low-income families and individuals. While I don’t have specific, up-to-date information on this affiliate, I can provide a general overview of what a typical Habitat for Humanity chapter does:
Home Construction and Repair: They build and rehabilitate homes for families and individuals in need of affordable housing. This often involves the use of volunteer labor and donated materials.
Partnerships: They collaborate with local governments, businesses, and community organizations to address housing issues and create sustainable solutions.
Family Selection and Support: Habitat for Humanity selects partner families based on specific criteria, such as income level and willingness to contribute “sweat equity” by helping build their own homes. They often provide financial education and support to these families.
Volunteer Engagement: Volunteers play a significant role in the construction and rehabilitation of homes, as well as in various other aspects of the organization’s operations.
ReStore: Many Habitat for Humanity affiliates operate ReStores, which are retail stores that sell donated building materials, furniture, and appliances. The proceeds from ReStore sales are used to fund Habitat’s mission.
Advocacy: Some affiliates engage in advocacy efforts to promote affordable housing policies and address housing-related issues in their communities.
A portion of every transaction fee received by EXIT Realty Corp. International is applied to its charitable fund. Through the Spirit of EXIT Charitable Program, EXIT offices and associates can raise money for local, approved, registered charities and apply to EXIT’s head office to have those funds matched from the company’s pool of funds. Robert and his team of professionals hoped to raise $5,000, which EXIT’s head office was proud to match, however they far exceeded their goal and raised $12,255.01 for a total donation of $17,255.01 to Broome County Habitat for Humanity.
“Thank you again for assisting us as we continue to build homes and community in Broome and Tioga counties. Together we are building more than just houses,” said Lateisha Judge Ulrich, Executive Director, Broome County Habitat for Humanity.