One of my favorite Christmas traditions is to watch Jimmy Stewart in that classic movie " Its a Wonderful Life.  In one scene, a young Mr. Baily eloquently and passionately argues how important it is to have an institution such as Baily's Building and Loan were members of the community that can not get a mortgage through Mr. Potter's Bank  can have access to funds. He argues that those who drive taxis, are policemen, work in local pharmacies, and in industries owned by Mr Potter's Bank should be able to strive towards home ownership rather than renting from Mr. Potter.  With home ownership and affordable mortgages, they could take pride in the community and  contribute to it.  In the end they would create a community which cared for their neighbours instead of a Pottersville focused only on greed.   As a result of his speech Mr Baily was asked to take on the responsibility of managing Baily's Building and Loans and as the angel secondclass  (Gabriel) demonstrates- he had a wonderful life which touched and improved the life of many others.   I struck me this year that Habitat for Humanity has the potential to transform communities in the same way.  By  partnering with the community to build decent affordable homes for those in need in the community and by offerring no interest mortgages to home owners,  Habitat helps to transform , not only the lives of new homeowners, but of those who volunteer, those who  donate materials, and those who sponsor homes.   In this season of giving, I am reminded of how powerful the gift can be can be on those who are doing the giving.
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In its 23 year history, Habitat for Humanity of the New River Valley , in partnership with sponsors, volunteers, and homeowners, has built 32 houses in the area. However, Habitat is not merely a house building organization. We provide the opportunity for people to come together, to be engaged in a hands on way to strengthen their community.  Our Restore in Pulaski continues to serve the community by providing low cost materials while helping to protect the environment by diverting construction and household materials from landfills. 

As you may know, we have experienced some significant challenges in the past year including the resignation of the Executive Director and the identification of a variety of problems associated with the HFH NRV Chapter. A small group has been meeting almost weekly to address issues which were primarily financial in nature and that required immediate attention. As well, Habitat for Humanity International has been providing oversight and guidance in redevelopment of our Chapter.    

 We are now happy to report that we are well on our way in the affiliate’s redevelopment process. Habitat for Humanity Inc. of the New River Valley has recently strengthened its Board of Directors with the addition of new board members. Our Restore has a new experienced manager, Kimberly Snider, BA. Ms. Snider has extensive retail management experience in re-sale, reuse stores. 

To date, many of the Habitat for Humanity International mandates for restoring stability have been addressed. While we continue to face funding challenges,  we are now in a position to once again become a very active chapter and to resume our mission in providing Habitat homes for the  many needy families in the New River Valley. 

We appreciate your continued support for Habitat for Humanity Inc. of the New River Valley.  Your past donations of cash, time, and surplus household goods and building materials, have helped to build decent homes and decent communities for those in need. 

 
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