What is Habitat For Humanity and how can you get involved

Jun 25, 2012, 8:31 a.m.

Habitat for Humanity is a global effort, founded in 1976, to address the growing issue of sub-standard housing for the poor around the world. The concept for the organization began in 1942 on a farm in Americus, Georgia, and has grown into a united effort of community volunteerism that has resulted in the construction of more than 500,000 houses, successfully sheltering more than 2.5 million people worldwide.

The idea of concept housing came out of the need for adequate housing and shelter and implemented the efforts of volunteers who came together to build simple, efficient houses for those in need. The shelters are built at no profit or interest to those receiving the housing and continues today to revolve around the Fund for Humanity that is mostly supported by gifts and private donations.

The organization relies heavily on non-governmental involvement and accepts volunteers to its self-described Christian Housing Ministry. The global operation is based in Americus, Georgia, with administrative headquarters in Atlanta. There are several offices located around the world, including in Canada, the Middle East, Africa, Asia, the Caribbean and Latin America.

Community-based operations around the world work with and through Habitat for Humanity International with fundraising, building site selections, as well as family selection and support. The mission of the organization includes to eliminate poverty housing and homelessness around the world.

Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter and his wife Rosalynn volunteered beginning in 1984, causing the organization's efforts to become more visible across the nation. Since then, Habitat for Humanity has experienced an increased number of new affiliates around the world.

Discovering what is Habitat for Humanity requires only the desire to become a part of successfully tackling the social problem of housing and poverty. Most communities have local offices for volunteers to coordinate efforts. According to the Habitat for Humanity website, there are many community volunteerism efforts ongoing for youth, women and families without homes year-round on a global scale. The website can also link volunteers with efforts in their own communities.

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