We’re celebrating our first year anniversary in Simi Valley.  Visit us in Simi Valley or Oxnard and take 30% off your purchase.

You can also help Habitat by briningyour used electronics to our Simi Valley store – event hosted by All Green Electronic

Sunday, May 19th from 11 am – 3 pm – FREE Recycling Event in Simi Valley

SIMI VALLEY- 805-520-7717
1293-A E. Los Angeles Avenue (Mountaingate Plaza)
Simi Valley CA 93063
OPEN 7 days, 10am – 6pm

OXNARD – 805-981-2268
121 S. Rice Avenue, Oxnard CA 93030 (corner of Rice & Sturgis .. look for the Grainger sign)
Open Tuesday – Friday 9am – 5pm; Saturday 8am – 4pm

Special thanks to Loewe’s, our outstanding event coordinator Hedy Swercheck, crew leads, Habitat family partners, Habitat staff, and the women volunteers who made the Women Build possible and successful!

To view and download photos taken by volunteer  site hosts, visit our Picasa website.

  

  

5/22
3rd Annual Community Breakfast
Historic Camarillo Ranch (7:30 – 9:00 am)

6/10
Habitat Open House
121 S. Rice Avenue, Oxnard CA 93030

8/23
Cocktails in Havana – Save the Date

10/5
30th Anniversary Dinner & Auction – Save the Date
Santa Paula Agricultural Museum

11/13-17
Cars for Homes National Build Week

Enjoy a delicious breakfast and learn how Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County is working collaboratively to serve more families and communities through a variety of affordable housing solutions.  Spaces are filling up quickly. Please register today

To RSVP for the event, please click here. 

Our mission: Seeking to put God’s love into action, Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County strengthens communities and fosters hope by bringing people together to build simple, decent houses in partnership with those in need.

Thank you for all that you do to support Habitat’s mission!!

Click here to view our 2013 Volunteer Recognition slide show

Click here to view Bob Carey’s reception photos.

A million thanks to Habitat’s very talented ‘volunteer’ photographer, Bob Carey and to our 2013 Volunteer Reception sponsors:

SEIU Local 721

Kim Larkins/Amgen Matching Grant

Lisa Higginbotham/Thrivent

Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County Board of Directors

Habitat for Humanity will be on site collecting new and gently used items ranging from appliances to furniture, home improvement items, and building materials. All donated items will be sold at the Habitat Restore located in Simi Valley to assist with ongoing Habitat building and repair programs. A wish list is available at http://www.habitatventura.org/restore….

Read more: http://www.vcstar.com/news/2013/apr/12/waste-management-simi-valley-landfill-and-recyclin/?partner=RSS

Building Homes, Building Hope

A Homegrown Solution to Affordable Housing

Wednesday, May 22  |  7:30 – 9:30 AM

Historic Camarillo Ranch

REGISTER TODAY at www.2013habitatventurabreakfast.eventbrite.com 

or call (805) 485-6065 x200 for more information. Tickets $20. Please RSVP by May 17th.

Proceeds raised from this event will support Habitat’s mission to strengthen communities and foster hope by bringing people together to build and repair simple, decent houses in partnership with those in need. Attendees will have an opportunity to network with members of the community and learn how Habitat for Humanity is working collaboratively to serve more families and communities through a variety of housing solutions. We’ll celebrate our homeowners’ successes; talk about the benefits of homeownership for stabilization of families and communities; and share our goals for affordable and sustainable housing in Ventura County.

Many thanks to our sponsors:

SEUI Local 721/COPE

Kim Larkins/Amgen Matching Grant

Alvarez Law Firm

Milton and Shirley Radant

Affinity Accounting Corporation

They learned new skills, connected with new people, and made a real difference in Habitat for Humanity’s mission.   Clearing the property on Cemetery Road in Santa Paula was tough work.  Thank you Theta Tau volunteers!!

View more pictures.

• This is our first Home Preservation on Ventura’s Westside – and the first repair to fall under Habitat’s Neighborhood Revitalization Initiative (NRI), a home rehabilitation program that supports dynamic and sustainable neighborhoods and communities
• Homeowner, Rosa Izquierdo – who is suffering from a disability resulting in reduced functionality in both wrists  -  is benefiting from the combined contributions of Habitat staff and volunteers, local residents and many caring organizations. Without CDBG funding and the generous time donated by hard-working volunteers, Rosa, could not completely resolve the code compliance issues and other repairs required to provide a safe, decent, and sustainable home for herself, her daughter Angie, and grandson Nathan.

• The ceremony will begin at 3:00pm at 227 W. Prospect, Ventura, CA 93001.

Home improvements include:

• Exterior house paint, new utility patio cover and water heater enclosure, new windows and new front door.
• New interior doors, kitchen cabinets, countertop and sink, and new vinyl flooring in the kitchen
• Future repairs include waterproofing the roof and installing a new wall heater

All home repairs were made possible thanks to:

• Community volunteers who donated their time and talents
• A Ventura County Community Block Development Grant (CDBG) and HUD funds
• Our partners, the City of Ventura, the Westside Community Council and the Westside Community Development Corporation.
• The Surfrider Foundation will install an Ocean Friendly Garden on Saturday on April 13

“We are grateful to our Wednesday ‘volunteer’ crew, more than 100 community volunteers, and the homeowner’s family — who all came together to complete the repairs,” said Felipe Flores. “Our desired outcome is the creation of safe and decent housing.”  Volunteer groups include:

• Habitat Wednesday “Volunteer” Crew
• St. Bonaventure High School
• Pepperdine University
• Mujeres Unidas from University of California Santa Barbara
• Santa Barbara Business College.
• Ventura County’s Running Community
• Consultants, Environmental Specialists from the City of Ventura and the Casitas Water District

]]> http://www.habitatventura.org/join-us-on-april-13th-for-our-3rd-home-preservation-dedication-in-ventura/feed/ 0 http://www.habitatventura.org/state-farm-presents-5000-check-to-habitat-fro-humanity-of-ventura-county/ http://www.habitatventura.org/state-farm-presents-5000-check-to-habitat-fro-humanity-of-ventura-county/#comments Fri, 29 Mar 2013 17:46:38 +0000 Elizabeth http://www.habitatventura.org/?p=5220 …

 State Farm recognizes the importance of ending poverty housing. That’s why the company recently awarded a $5,000 grant to Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County.  George Pond, State Farm Agent and Eddie Martinez with State Farm’s Public Affairs presented the check to Habitat for Humanity staff and volunteers at one of the Santa Paula work sites.

Habitat would like to extend their deep appreciation to George Pond for his tireless efforts to secure support from State Farm. Since 2006, State Farm has awarded more than $30,000 in grant money to Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County.

State Farm has has significantly enabled St. Maximilian’s Habitat to the Max” ministry to complete five Habitat for Humanity homes in Ventura County and prepare for their sixth home in Santa Paula.

At Habitat for Humanity, we help families realize their dreams, believing that everyone deserves a decent place to live. We empower families who are willing to work hard to achieve their dreams of home ownership. Each Habitat homeowner invests hundreds of hours to help build their home, then purchases the home from Habitat for Humanity with an affordable, zero interest mortgage.

 

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Thanks to a partnership with All Green, Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County ReStores can now accept your electronics donations, insuring that your e-waste will stay out of landfills!

All Green employs its own “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle” policies and practices in service of the environment’s needs. They also comply with and exceed all EPA regulations and guidelines for handling e-waste and other hazardous materials. Hazardous e-waste never ends up in landfills and is never exported to developing nations for dumping.

Items accepted at the Simi Valley and Oxnard ReStores

• Computers
• Toner Cartridges
• Monitors
• Printers
• DVD Players & VCRs
• Telephones
• Cables/Wires
• Portable Electronics
• iPods
• Calculators
• All Small Electronics
• Televisions
• Appliances
• Mobile Phones
• Computers
• Computer Parts

Data Security and Hard Drive Destruction

Every computer recovered has its hard drive removed and digitally wiped twice in order to ensure full data destruction.

The volume of brush made it impossible for Anna Klemens, 82, to access the backyard from the front yard and caused the wood on the outside of the one-story house to wear away at the structure.

Accomplishments to-date on Prospect Street include:

• Volunteer crews completed an extensive backyard clean-up, and repaired and painted the exterior stucco walls.
• Habitat’s Wednesday Crew rebuilt a small patio cover and water heater enclosure.

The overall scope of work is near completion.

• On April 13, landscape will be installed thanks to a special partnership with the Surfrider Foundation.
• This great organization dedicates itself to the design and implementation of “Ocean Friendly Gardens”.
• The dedication ceremony for the home will be celebrated immediately after.

Learn more about our Preserve a Home program and Neighborhood Revitalization:

• The home on Prospect Street falls under our Neighborhood Revitalization Initiative (NRI), a home rehabilitation program which ultimately translates into vibrant, dynamic, sustainable communities.
• NRI differs from our Preserve a Home program, but the desired outcome is one and the same — the creation of  safe, decent housing.

Special thanks are in order for the City of Ventura’s Water and Community Development Departments and Ventura’s Westside Community Council.

During the Public Comments portion of the meeting, Board Member David Goldstein spoke about Habitat’s mission and shared a short presentation,”Why We Build”.

Ventura’s Mayor, the Honorable Mike Tracy, presented a Certificate of Acknowledgement to David and Nancy Stehle, Interim Executive Director, for Habitat’s 30 years of service in Ventura County.

It was a special moment for the affiliate, and we thank the great City of San Buenaventura for their recognition.

Our heartfelt thanks go out to all who contributed to the success of this event:

• runners, walkers, volunteers and donors!
• Race Coordinator, Josh Spiker, Vendurance.com
• Corporate donors and sponsors: Aloha Steakhouse, Tri-Running, Scott, West Coast Strength and Conditioning, TMost Fit Suspension Strap, Caliendo Photography, /pyür/ Real Estate, Fluid Sports Nutrition, Rock Steady Fitness, Better Body Warehouse, Taconic Foundation, Charter College,

OXNARD

121 South Rice Avenue-Oxnard
Corner of Rice and Sturgis Rd.
Enter from Sturgis Road
(805) 981-2268
Tuesday-Friday 9am – 5pm
Saturday 8am – 4pm

SIMI VALLEY 

1293 East Los Angeles Avenue-Simi Valley
Mountaingate Plaza, corner of First and Los Angeles Ave.
(805) 520-7717
Now Open 7 days a week from 10:00 am – 6:00 pm

*Event pricing for ReStore inventory on the sales floor only, and sold on a first come, first served basis. Cash, debit and credit cards accepted. No checks please. Not valid on prior purchases or taxes. May not be combined with other coupons or special discounts.

 To donate large items call and schedule a pickup!

• Click here to download the full NEWS RELEASE_Habitat Preserve a Home Dedication_January 30 2013

Faustino Acosta, a widow and single parent, will now enjoy a safe and comfortable home for years to come. His school-aged daughters are living at home, and his son recently returned from a tour in Afghanistan with the Marines.  Prior to house repairs, it was very difficult for Mr. Acosta to get in and out of his own home, or even move about within his house. While Mr. Acosta is currently undergoing dialysis three times a week, he also makes time to volunteer at his local food bank on Wednesdays.

Rotted wall and plumbing repairs in progress at Saticoy.

We’re gathering the community to support our mission as we prepare to begin new home construction in the City of Santa Paula. We’re delighted to be working with you on this development and excited about the impact that our collective efforts will have on the community as a whole.

1. It starts with site acquisition… finding a buildable lot 

The process of Habitat for Humanity Site Acquisition is lengthy,  “and just requires patience”,  comments Site Acquisition Chairperson Milt Radant with a big smile.  For this parcel of property, Site Acquisition commenced one year ago in January 2012. Pre-Development for the two homes on Santa Anna Street in Santa Paula has been in the works ever since, under the leadership of Jeffery Conrad and John Kistler.

2. Housing Solutions – Lots of planning, hard work, and collaboration

Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County is thrilled to once again work with the City of Santa Paula to find housing solutions for families in need.  Before year end 2012, we were able to take the steps necessary to submit a comprehensive  application to the City of Santa Paula for a Conditional Use Permit (CUP).   Prior to approval, a CUP must be consistent with the existing adopted general plan, including local areas and community plans, which reflect policy for land use and code for planning and zoning.   We look forward to receiving a CUP after the City works through the necessary Planning Commission Departmental Meetings, Planning Commission Hearing, and City Council approval of our Tentative Map. While Pre-Development is in progress, our Family Services and Fundraising are also in full swing.

3. Family Selection – Orientation meetings, applications , and home visits.

The Family Selection Team began its work way in July of 2012, and we are now looking forward to reviewing the Committee’s decision with Board of Directors in January. Our Family Selection Committee, lead by Sandy Burris, is able to see, first hand, the great need for Habitat for Humanity in Ventura County. As the six-month process for Family Selection comes to a close, we thank the Committee for their noble effort and contributions to making Habitat happen here.

“The partnerships between Habitat for Humanity and our homeowner families are true collaborations, grounded firmly on mutual respect and a core belief that everyone should have an opportunity to live in a safe, decent and affordable home. Habitat’s Family Selection Process is one of the most important task an affiliate undertakes.” Jonathan Reckford, CEO of Habitat for Humanity International.

4. Family Services – Volunteer family partners, educations classes, and more!

Habitat Volunteers are mentors to the families we serve!  A Family Partner’s responsibilities start following the selection of the family and continue until approximately one year after home dedication and move in. Those who take on this essential volunteer role are called, ‘Family Partners’. The Family Partner Team assists families through sweat equity, homeowner education, move in, adjustment to new responsibilities, the closing process, continued partnership and community engagement. This team also organizes home dedication ceremonies and facilitates our Homeowner Education Program. They are a great bunch of dedicated Habitat volunteers led by Chairperson, Ronda Chung.  Each Family Partner Volunteer is paired up with a family to mentor and guide them through our program.   We are now recruiting the next two Family Partner Volunteers and putting finishing touches on the line-up for Homeowner Education 2013.  If you’d like to learn more about our Family Services Program or how to become a Family Partner Volunteer, please contact Director of Programs, Kathleen O’Halloran.

 5. Volunteers – the heart of Habitat for Humanity … behind the scenes and on the construction site.

If you’d like to get involved as a construction site volunteer in Santa Paula, stay tuned for details on Volunteer Group involvement, Construction Site Volunteering, and Build Days.  Be sure to check Volunteer Hub.  When volunteer group scheduling opens up, we will notify the community through this newsletter. After receiving our CUP, we will have the construction schedule and can move forward with scheduling volunteer groups.  We look forward to the community’s involvement in this development.  If you’d like to get involved now, please contact our 30^th Anniversary Committee to assist us with activities, special events and fundraising that will take place throughout the year. Thanks!

Stay tuned to our Builder’s Bulletin each month for the latest news on the development of these next two homes.

 

Spreading throughout the County

As a complement to our Neighborhood Revitalization Initiative from Habitat for Humanity International, our Ventura County affiliate and its numerous partners have mobilized to deliver an unprecedented level of support to communities through the Preserve a Home Program.  Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County does not just build homes from the ground up anymore.  With this innovative and exciting Program, existing homeowners in need of a “hand up” have turned to Habitat and their vast network of volunteers to perform simple home remodel work.

Components to the Preserve a Home Program

The Preserve a Home program has enabled our affiliate to offer a wider variety of construction services using the successful and well-documented Habitat model – and ultimately, serve a greater number of families in need each year.  Depending on the level of repair, the needed home preservation service may fall into any of the Program’s three components.

A Brush With Kindness:  (ABWK) is Habitat’s house-preservation plan that will focus solely on simple home exterior repairs such as:

• Scraping, sanding, caulking, priming and painting
• Window repair
• Minor siding and trim repair
• Landscaping (pruning, trimming, weeding and reseeding)
• Clean-up, brush/junk removal

Minor Repair:  In addition to including repair services from ABWK, this component also includes:

• Health, life and safety issues are addressed
• Lighting fixtures are repaired or replaced
• Addition of insulation
• Interior paint
• Minor plumbing and/or electrical repairs

 Major Repair: This component also includes repair services from ABWK and Minor Repair

• Roof replacement
• Wheelchair ramp construction
• Doorway widening
• Grab bar installation
• Wheelchair accessibility

As we get started with new home construction in Santa Paula in 2013, Preserve a Home services will also be available in unincorporated areas of Ventura County such as Piru, Fillmore, Moorpark, Santa Paula, Saticoy, Meiners Oaks, Ojai, El Rio, Nyeland Acres, Port Hueneme and Oak Park.  Preserve a Home services will also be available in the cities of Simi Valley and Ventura.

For more information, please contact Felipe Flores at (805) 485-6065, ext. 202 or via email at felipef@habitatventura.org.

Sometimes God uses the “least among us” to inspire and challenge our perspective.

Charles Henderson, who gave Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County its first buildable lot in 1991, was one of those inspirations. Born in the South, Charles never learned to read or write. A hard worker, he grew vegetables and sold them from his wheelbarrow in Oak View where, over time, he was able to purchase vacant property. When we at Habitat met Charles, he was in his late 60s, his health was in decline, and he was living on less than $100 a month. Charles was also under pressure from County Code enforcement for his non-permitted, uninhabitable structures and all the “treasures” he had collected for use or sale.

We helped him get on Social Security, secured a caregiver, and moved both of them into a small travel trailer on the property while we installed a donated double-wide mobile home. Even before we finished, Charles indicated that in appreciation for Habitat’s help, he wanted to give his property to Habitat – which we then learned included not one but three buildable lots! Thankfully, he was able to enjoy his new Habitat neighbors for several years before he died.

After 10 years of searching for buildable land through moneyed individuals and organizations, Charles stepped forward giving Habitat all that he had. His gift launched the first of 56 homes completed with your support in Ventura County.

How have you been blessed in your life? How are you choosing to share your thankfulness? Who are you choosing to bless with your time and resources?   

Habitat continues to appreciate all of your creative efforts and contributions.  Together, we are thankful for the opportunity to participate in the continuing miracles of donated land and resources working in partnership with others like Charles who need affordable housing.

Blessings,
Virgil Nelson
Founder, Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County

Please join us in providing hope and brighter futures for more families!

Blanca, a single mother of four girls, had hopes and dreams of providing her children with a safe home in a good neighborhood. In September of this year, her dreams came true when she became a Habitat homeowner. Now, rather than worry about her daughters’ safety and living conditions, Blanca can help her children attain their dreams.

Please consider a gift of $30 (or more) to help us continue our mission.

Ways to donate to Habitat:

• Make a donation online

• Call (805) 485-6065, X200

• Mail your donation to:
  Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County
  121 S. Rice Avenue
  Oxnard, CA 93030-7235
  Attn: Holiday Gift

• Donate to Habitat for Humanity ReStore. For hours and location, or to schedule a pickup, visit us online or call (805) 981-2268.

• Donate a vehicle through Habitat’s Cars for Homes program.

• Volunteer on a new home build or A Brush With Kindness. Sign up today!

Please help us build more homes!

Blanca had dreams of buying her own home and raising her daughters in a safe neighborhood.

For  years, Blanca and her family lived in harsh conditions, which gave her the drive to seek a better life.  Now, thanks to her hard work and Habitat’s homeownership program, the daily struggle of single motherhood will be far more manageable for Blanca as she provides for her family and continues her educational pursuits. Setting an excellent role model for her girls, Blanca obtained her certificate in child development from Oxnard College and is currently working on her AA degree. Michelle, the oldest, is a member of Avid, a school program that encourages volunteerism and prepares students for college. Itzanamei is enrolled in Honors math and would like to be a policewoman. Sharon loves animals and sees Veterinarian medicine in her future. Priscilla will study to become a school teacher when she grows up. Blanca and her children can now make plans for a very bright future!

Maria’s daughters are the joy of her life, and every day she works hard to make their lives better.

Life has not always been easy for Maria, a single parent supporting a family of five. When we met Maria, her family was living in an overcrowded apartment. Maria was working hard to provide for her daughters and often worked overtime on Saturdays. Maria’s new Habitat home and affordable mortgage payments will significantly ease her burdens and allow her to plan for her daughters’ dreams and education. Jessica plans to study marine biology and is eager to plant a garden at her new home, and her sister Viviana wants to be a detective someday. Andrea looks forward to having a pet and is excited about her new bedroom. Her twin, Alejandra is happy about her new home because she will be getting a new bicycle which can be safely stored in the garage. Maria and the girls are very grateful to Habitat for helping to make their dreams come true.

Jemma Wildermuth, loyal Habitat volunteer and owner of ‘cREate STUDIO’ in Westlake Village, recently opened her studio to support Habitat for Humanity’s mission! Thanks to Jemma’s vision, passion for art and for Habitat, individuals and groups (ages 3+) were invited to create an interpretation of “What Makes a House a Home”.

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Friday evening’s reception, hosted by cREate STUDIO and Notionist, shocased this unique art collection. On Saturday, November 10, the collection was on display for viewing and bidding from 11am to 6pm. Bidding closed on Saturday at 6pm. Please contact createstudiofun@gmail.com with inquiries about this program.

When:

Friday, November 9 – 7pm – 9pm
Saturday, November 10 – 11am – 6pm

Where:

Notionist Studio
31368 Via Colinas, #105, Westlake Village.

To register for a free ticket to the event, visit  http://whatmakesahouseahome.eventbrite.com

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 About cREate STUDIO  

CReATE STUDIO is a welcoming, walk in, help yourself art studio geared toward creative exploration using a varied array of recycled, artistic and crafty materials. All ages can create treasured masterpieces using  many interesting and everyday household materials to build, tape, glue, paint and invent ! No two creations are alike. Marvel as self esteem and and problem solving skills are fostered through this creative process. http://www.createstudiofun.com/

How can you help Habitat build more homes?

1. Donate a vehicle to Cars for Homes™, get a tax deduction. Visit www.carsforhomes.org today!
   
2. Increase public awareness of Habitat for Humanity’s vehicle donation program.
3. Tell folks about Habitat’s Cars for Homes donation program via Facebook, Twitter, Google+ or Pinterest
4. Celebrate America Recycles Day on November 15  -  Donate a Vehicle! 

Thanks for sharing!  Don’t forget to tag us and mention that you are Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County volunteer!

‘Tweet’ @HfHVC
‘Like’ facebook/HFHVC

H I G H L I G H T S

• On our Home Page, follow current news. Featured sections are “Home Building & Repair,” “Family Focus,” “From our Blog” and “Recent News.” From the main Menu, view our Mission Principles, Habitat Staff, and Board of Directors

• Looking for information about qualifying for a Habitat home, new home construction or repairs?   We’ve added a new menu item, titled “Housing Solutions.”  Here, you’ll find information about applying for Habitat homes, information and news about our Preserve a Home program, posts about completed builds, current home build posts, and upcoming builds.

•  Learn about all of the Ways to Donate… from online giving, matching gifts, planned giving and vehicle donations to gifts of land or building materials, sponsorships, and ReStore donations.

• Monetary donations can be made directly to Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County on the website via our secure server. Regardless of whether the gift is an honor/memory donation, a one-time gift, or a recurring pledge, 100% of your donation goes to Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County

• Donate, Volunteer and Shop at the Habitat ReStore, the store that builds homes!  Follow all of the ReStore activities, news and sales events at our Oxnard and Simi Valley retail outlets, where you’ll find new and gently-used furniture, hardware, appliance, building materials, home goods, and more. Inventory changes daily and merchandise is priced 50-75% below retail.

• Subscribe to our e-newsletter. As a HfHVC insider, you’ll stay up-to-date on the latest news and exciting announcements from our affiliate. Don’t be left out…make sure you’re in the “know” with our Builders Bulletin!

• Learn about Volunteer Programs & Sign Up to Volunteer!  Habitat for Humanity brings together individuals and teams of volunteers to help us with our mission to provide safe, decent and affordable housing in our communities.  Check out our Volunteer Calendar, where you’ll find tons of opportunities posted — from new home construction and preservation work to ReStore volunteer jobs and committee work.

• Link directly to our sister websites,  BlogSpot, LinkedIn, YouTube, Facebook, and Picasa. You’ll find Habitat blogs, videos, the latest news, fundraiser information, and photos from new home builds, preservation repairs, and special events

• Looking for a phone number or directions to our office or the ReStore?  At the bottom of every page, you’ll find contact information for our Administrative office and both Habitat Restores, along with links to Google maps.

Very special thanks to Kevin Sipma of Neuron Computer Services, our website developer/hosting company, and to Ronda Chung, Habitat’s Family Partner Committee Chair and her WellPoint team for providing valuable design input to enhance your experience while viewing and navigating our website.

When Engel & Völkers Westlake Village receives 50,000 Facebook “Likes”, they will donate $10,000 to Habitat for Humanity.

Click here to Support the cause!

Simply “Like” and Share this campaign with friends & family

A Message from Engel & Völkers

Engel & Völkers has been giving dreams a roof of their own for the last 30 years. With that mission, our team at Westlake Village believes in fair housing. We are motivated to participate in the community and offer our resources in order to give back. When searching for a means to channel our efforts, we found Habitat for Humanity a perfect fit. Engel & Völkers Westlake Village and Habitat for Humanity have the same goal in mind; giving people their sanctuary, their safe place, their home. Habitat for Humanity, a long lasting, reputable charity, has done wonderful work for communities all over the world. Because of our great respect for the charity and our commitment to contribute, we are excited about building this relationship. As the old saying goes, “Home is where the heart is.” With your support, we can help the most deserving of candidates find it’s true meaning.

http://www.likegiver.com/engelvoelkerswestlakevillage/

Stay tuned to our Website and Builder’s Bulletin for exciting updates on the next homes in Santa Paula!

Last year, the Helping Holiday Greeting Card Program helped more than 1,300 elementary school students to use their artwork to raise thousands of dollars for their respective schools and local charities, including Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County!

Friendly Neighborhood Helpers (FNH) is a nonprofit fundraising organization that helps kids raise money for their schools and selected charities through the sale of their original artwork. FNH was conceived by a first grader who was looking for a way her and her friends could help their school and the charities they care about. With the sale of each pack of 10 cards, $3.00 will go to your school & $3.00 will go to the charity of your choosing!

If you would like to bring this to your school, please send an email to info@friendlyneighborhoodhelpers.org.

]]> http://www.habitatventura.org/holiday-greeting-cards-that-give-back/feed/ 0 http://www.habitatventura.org/oxnard-homes-dedicated-september-15th/ http://www.habitatventura.org/oxnard-homes-dedicated-september-15th/#comments Mon, 24 Sep 2012 19:18:26 +0000 Elizabeth http://www.habitatventura.org/?p=4360 …

The 2nd Annual Cocktails in Havana, hosted by the VCCAR affiliates committee at the home of Kristina & Peter Kalaydjian was a great success. We would like to thank all of the generous attendees, donors, sponsors and vendors who supported this wonderful fundraising event.  The event raised more than $14,000 for Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County!

Close to 400 local residents and friends of Habitat enjoyed an evening of fun, food, spirits and cigars, and music.  Heather Hughes, representing State Senator Fran Pavley, awarded Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County an accolade in recognition of the event.  Habitat family-partners and future homeowners, Blanca and Maria joined us for the evening!

A very special thank you to all of the sponsors listed below and event organizers Peter and Kristina Kalaydjian and the entire Contact Escrow team, Lupe Flores (Farmers Insurance), Bob Davis (Heritage Oaks Bank), Brian Lawson (Wells Fargo), Michael Padilla (Ticor Title), Adam Casillas, and Angel Rafaelian.

Wells Fargo (Title Sponsor)
Rosemary Allison, Coldwell Banker
Armando, Burger Express
Title 365
Alquimia Tequila
5th Street Steak House
Alicia Basurto, Farmers Insurance
Alejandro (Alex) Viecco, Montalvo Tequila
Michael Padilla, Ticor Title Company
Brooke Smith, Coldwell Banker Residential
Memo Lara, Pacific Coast Title
Fidelity National Title
Justine Tomala, Caliber Funding
Tamara Rossie, First American Home Warranty
Ric Ash
Thom Theys – RE/MAX Gold Coast
Lauren Williams – RE/MAX Gold Coast
Tony Truisi, Coldwell Banker
Chase
Diane Wagner – VC Star
Pat Kearney, Medallion Mortgage
GEM Mortgage
Shock Top
Leffe
Firestone Double Barrel
Stella Artois
Capital Mortgage Services
Guild Mortgage
Lupe Flores, Farmers
Keller Williams West Ventura County
Bob Davis, Heritage Oaks Bank
The Venco Group
Contact Escrow
Cigar in the Bottle
Wooden Bottle
Premium Hookah
JM’s Hookah
JM’s Dominican
Liewen Law
Old Oaks Cigar Company

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This past year, we’ve raised the money to build one home for Habitat for Humanity of Ventura and diverted thousands of pounds of usable materials from local landfills! These great accomplishments have positively impacted our community, our partner families, and our environment, and they wouldn’t have been possible without you. That’s why we’re inviting you to celebrate with us!

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The Oxnard Habitat ReStore is located at 121 S. Rice Avenue (corner of Rice Ave. and Sturgis Rd). and is open Tuesday-Friday 9am – 5pm Saturday 8am – 4pm.  The Simi Valley store, located at 1293 E. Los Avenue and is opened Tuesday – Sunday from 9am – 5pm.  All proceeds from the Habitat ReStore support Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County programs and local building projects.  Material donations are welcome! For more information, visit www.habitatventura.org.

If you plan to attend the September 15 dedications, please email vickien@habitatventura.org or call (805) 485-6065, x200.

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Habitat offers a “hand up”.  

At Habitat for Humanity, we believe that everyone everywhere deserves a decent place to live, and we empower families who are willing to work hard to achieve their dreams of homeownership. First-time homeowners, Blanca Cuellar and Maria Deciga have worked hard to achieve homeownership and stability for their children, each completing more than 250 hours building their home and attending financial management and home maintenance workshops.

“We recognize that building and preserving affordable housing in Ventura County is a collaborative effort,” said Stacy Swanson, Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County.  “We are so grateful for our partnerships in neighborhoods across Ventura County to make homeownership a reality for low and very-low income families.  We aspire to improve and preserve our neighborhoods to ensure continued affordable housing opportunities and sustainable communities.”

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Our heartfelt thanks go out to all of the volunteers, donors, sponsors, and partners who made this possible!   

These simple, decent beautiful homes were built by Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County in partnership with partner-families, Blanca and Maria, the St. Maximilian Kolbe Catholic Church “Habitat to the Max” Ministry; hundreds of volunteers; Habitat dedicated Wednesday crew; and the 2012 Women Build sponsors: AMEEN, an Amgen Affinity Group; Lowe’s of Oxnard, Monsanto; Terri Freidin of Troop Real Estate Group; Tebo Tile and Stone; and Zebra Technologies.

This year’s homeowner education classes were taught by local professionals and Habitat staff who generously volunteered their time to share their expertise:

Selina H. Medina, CPA & Owner of SHM Tax Advisors Inc (Budgeting)
Jay Ducan Manager, City of Oxnard Recycling Manager (Green Neighbor)
The American Red Cross (Disaster Preparedness)
Pierre J. Rodnunsky, Estate Attorney & Partner at Santiago, Rodnunsky & Jones (Wills and Trusts)
Eddie Stolsig, Tae Ryong Taekwondo School  and Police Officer Howard Horwitz with the Simi Valley Police Department (Safety)
Joslyn Tillar, Farmers Insurance and Pepperdine Waves of Service Coordinator (Insurance)
John Kistler, Habitat for Humanity Construction Manager (Home Maintenance)
Stacy Swanson, Habitat for Humanity Executive Director (Mortgages)
Maria Herrera, Habitat for Humanity Family Partner Team and Employment Specialist with Oxnard Union High School District (Technical Translator)
Ronda Chung, Habitat for Humanity Family Partner Chair and Director of Marketing at WellPoint (Family Services Program)

Family Services Program
Ronda Chung, Habitat for Humanity Family Partner Chair and Director of Marketing at WellPoint

Technical Translations
Maria Herrera, Habitat for Humanity Family Partner Team and Employment Specialist, Oxnard Union High School District

Budgeting
Selina H. Medina, CPA & Owner of SHM Tax Advisors Inc

Green Neighbor
Jay Ducan Manager, City of Oxnard Recycling Manager

Disaster Preparedness
The American Red Cross

Wills and Trusts
Pierre J. Rodnunsky, Estate Attorney & Partner at Santiago, Rodnunsky & Jones

Safety
Eddie Stolsig, Tae Ryong Taekwondo School
Officer Howard Horwitz with the Simi Valley Police Department

Insurance
Joslyn Tillar, Farmers Insurance and Pepperdine Waves of Service Coordinator

Helping working families find and keep suitable homes is central to stimulating our national economic recovery. That’s why we’re proud to partner with Bank of America to extend vital community services to those who need them most. The grant is part of a $22 million investment by Bank of America to build and rehab affordable housing, offer foreclosure prevention services and homeowner counseling, and provide other services intended to invigorate and rejuvenate neighborhoods.  Nationally the grants support more than 650 nonprofits in 34 states.

“In response to the many challenges facing our communities, we are focusing our philanthropic support on areas vital to advancing local economies,” said, Bank of America Market President, David Prichard. “The bank’s $47,500.00 investment in local nonprofits that help individuals and families regain financial stability through housing and other community development initiatives is one way we’re working to stabilize and advance in the Santa Barbara and Ventura Counties.”

As Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County looks to provide sustainable housing solutions for families in need, Bank of America’s investment in our organization will enable us to continue performing our vital work.

Before…

On June 30, 2012, Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County celebrated the completion of its 5th home preservation and the first under the Minor Repair category.  This home preservation is the first to be completed in the city of Ventura and the results and long-term impact are far greater than anyone envisioned.  Thanks to the efforts of many volunteers, including high school students, the homeowner will enjoy a safe, decent, comfortable home for years to come.  The homeowner was referred to Habitat for Humanity by Mike and Lauren Burns with Our Lady of the Assumption Catholic Church in Ventura. (Thank you Mike and Lauren!)

The scope of work for this rehab was extensive; here’s a sampling of the work completed:

• Extensive front and back yard clean up
• Demolition of dilapidated structures
• Landscape
• Exterior paint
• Interior flooring
• Drywall patching
• Appliance upgrade
• Driveway reconstruction
• Garage door replacement

After…..

The results are stunning, and  it was all made possible thanks to the following volunteer groups:

A – Z Law Firm
Amgen
Boys Team Charity
Calvary Church
Center for Employment Training Target
Levi’s
Ojai Presbyterian Church
Pepperdine University
St. Maximilian Kolbe Catholic Church
The Barrister Group
University of Wisconsin

Special thanks also to Habitat’s Wednesday Crew and Crew Leads, Preserve a Home Team, Habitat for Humanity Board of Directors, staff and friends of Habitat.  Very special thanks to Monica Lara of the VC Star and photographer Richard Quinn.

For more information on this great achievement, please visit: http://www.vcstar.com/news/2012/jun/30/fresh-look-from-habitat-brings-fresh-outlook-at/

Building Hope, was a great success, bringing in more than $10,000 in donations. Thanks so much to all who are helping to support affordable housing in Ventura County.

We were blessed to have a very special guest speaker.  Virgil Nelson, who launched our Habitat affiliate, inspired guests with his message and stories about Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County.  Thank you Virgil!    With your support, we hope to achieve our goal of making a more significant impact towards providing affordable housing for qualified low and very-low income families in our community.

If you were not able to attend the breakfast at the historic Camarillo Ranch, please consider making a donation today. 

Many thanks to our very generous sponsors:

Silver Sponsors: Anderson Kill Wood & Bender, P.C., California Lutheran University, Santa Barbara Bank & Trust, Thrivent Financial for Lutherans®, Union Bank

Friends of Habitat Sponsors:  Blois Construction Inc., McCarthy Companies, Montecito Bank & Trust®, Radant Family Fund, Gerry & Joan Olsen

Whether as a member of the construction crew, a support team member or raising funds for the project, women have created amazing results while engaging in activities that inspire a sense of community. You raised more than $5,000! (Check out Picasa and Facebook for more photos.)

With YOUR help, we’re providing a “hand-up” to Maria and Blanca’s families – Future Habitat Homeowners.

Build Sponsors:
AMEEN, an Amgen Afinity Group
Monsanto
Lowe’s of Oxnard
Terri Freidin of Troop Real Estate Group, Inc.
Tebo Tile and Stone
Zebra Technologies

Terri Freidin’s of Troop Real Estate with her Women Build Team

AMEEN, an Amgen Afinity Group

Zebra Technologies

Tebo Tile & Stone with Calvary Christian School

Monsanto

Project Management
Hedy Swercheck | Kathleen O’Halloran

Maureen Hannah & Cathi Nye (Oak View Women’s Club)with Kathleen and Hedy

How-to Clinics & In-kind donations:
Lowe’s of Oxnard | Oak View Women’s Club

Dee & Heidi, Lowe’s

Thank you Oak View Women’s Club, Saturday’s lunch was great!

Kim’s plans for Saturday? Building homes and hope in partnership with volunteers and future Habitat homeowners.

“Habitat’s Ventura County Executive Director Stacy Swanson describes Kim as “the kind of board chair that nonprofit executives wish for.” Swanson continues: “She’s so passionate about our mission and vision. Even when not wearing her Habitat hat, she’s thinking about Habitat. Being the board chair is a huge commitment, especially since she has a full-time job. And she’s also a construction site crew leader on Saturdays.” Kim is one of 11 Amgen staff members throughout the U.S. and Puerto Rico chosen for the 2011 Amgen Excellence in Volunteering Awards. In recognition of her service, the Amgen Foundation awarded $5,000 to Habitat.”  To read the full story, visit http://contributionsreport.amgen.com/staff

Maria’s house – roofing & siding complete; windows installed

Blanca’s house – House wrapped; ready for siding, trim and windows

]]> http://www.habitatventura.org/stroube-street-updates/feed/ 0 http://www.habitatventura.org/register-today-for-our-june-13th-building-homes-building-hope-breakfast/ http://www.habitatventura.org/register-today-for-our-june-13th-building-homes-building-hope-breakfast/#comments Tue, 15 May 2012 23:41:59 +0000 Elizabeth http://www.habitatventura.org/?p=3445 …

• Race Coordinator, Josh Spiker, Vendurance.com
• Sponsors: Aloha Steakhouse, Tri-Running, SEIU 721, Temple Beth Torah, Ali’i Group, Kenneth Robbins Insurance Group
• Habitat booth volunteers: Joslyn Tillar, Karen Turek and Mike Turek
• Hundreds of runners and walkers!
• Photographer/Habitat Volunteer: Bob Carey (to order/view all photos of this event, please visit http://www.bobcareyfoto.com/Habitat-For-Humanity/Ventura-Half-Marathon-and-5K/21447186_F6gnxx#!i=1709029446&k=vHWbzt6

State Farm recognizes the importance of ending poverty housing. That’s why State Farm awarded a $5,000 grant to Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County. On March 7th,  Agent, George Pond presented the check to Habitat for Humanity for Humanity at the building site of the next home sponsored by “Habitat to the Max, a ministry of St. Maximilian Kolbe Catholic Church in Westlake Lake Village.

“We are so grateful for long-term partnerships with successful, community-focused businesses like State Farm,” said Stacy Swanson, Habitat for Humanity’s Executive Director. “Their very generous support helps to make affordable home ownership a reality for low-income families living in Ventura County!”

State Farm’s mission is to help people manage the risks of everyday life, recover from the unexpected, and realize their dreams. Since 2006, State Farm has awarded $30,000 in grant money to Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County. At Habitat for Humanity, we also help families realize their dreams, believing that everyone deserves a decent place to live. We empower families who are willing to work hard to achieve their dream of homeownership.  Each Habitat homeowner invests hundreds of hours to help build their home, and then purchases the home with an affordable, zero interest mortgage.

About State Farm®. State Farm and its affiliates are the largest provider of car insurance in the U.S. and a leading insurer in Canada. In addition to providing auto insurance quotes, their 17,800 agents and more than 66,000 employees serve 81 million policies and accounts – more than 79 million auto, home, life and health policies in the United States and Canada, and nearly 2 million bank accounts. Commercial auto insurance, along with coverage for renters, business owners, boats and motorcycles, is also available.  State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company is the parent of the State Farm family of companies.  State Farm is ranked No. 37 on the Fortune 500 list of largest companies.  For more information, please visit http://www.statefarm.com

Joslyn Tillar, a volunteer staffing the booth for Habitat for Humanity, the beneficiary of this year’s race, said the event provided a great way to get word out about what Habitat does and to enlist volunteers. “This gives us the opportunity to share our vision and share the importance of how the community can provide for people who aren’t able to get homes on their own,” Tillar said.  Karen Turek, also a Habitat volunteer, said the race helps the organization get more participants to help build houses and make donations, including land.

To read more, visit  http://www.vcstar.com/news/2012/feb/12  – vcstar.com

Supervisor Zaragoza is a strong supporter of programs that support families in need, and he is proud to work with Habitat for Humanity on A Brush with Kindness. “A Brush with Kindness is an excellent program that supports families who own their home but have limited means to fix and clean up their properties,” said Zaragoza.  “The program provides hope and pride for the family who owns the home, increasing property values in the neighborhood, bringing neighbors and the community together, and increases community pride.”

Supervisor Zaragoza is very proud of the work he has already done in the Nyeland Acres area, including opening the Nyeland Community Center (in cooperation with the Rio School District), helping to coordinate three neighborhood clean-up events (with County Integrated Waste Management Program), coordinating Town Hall meetings and special events, and bringing the El Rio Municipal Advisory Council meeting to Nyeland Acres.

”We are thrilled to participate in this exciting, new venture for Habitat for Humanity.  We are optimistic about the positive impact we can make on the community as a whole and addressing the many housing needs of low-income community,” commented Stacy Swanson, Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County’s Executive Director.

Through A Brush with Kindness, Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County will work with other community organizations to determine the projects that will be carried out locally. Habitat services may include minor to critical repairs for low-income homeowners.

For more information about this program, please contact  Felipe Flores at (805) 485-6065, x202 or felipef@habitatventura.org

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Habitat for Humanity is a non-profit, ecumenical Christian housing organization that builds homes in partnership with people in need of adequate shelter. Homeowners are selected based on their need for housing, ability to repay a zero-interest, no-profit loan, and willingness to partner with Habitat for Humanity. Because Habitat’s loans are no-profit, they are affordable for low-income family partners.  Homeowners’ mortgage payments build additional houses through the Fund for Humanity.  Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County, a locally-run and locally-funded affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International, has provided homeownership opportunities for 54 Ventura County families and repaired over 500 homes since 1983.   For more information about Habitat for Humanity of Ventura Country, visit: www.habitatventura.org.  Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County was selected as one of 163 affiliates nationwide to participate in Habitat for Humanity International’s initial phase of its Neighborhood Revitalization Initiative, the umbrella program for A Brush with Kindness and Minor and Critical Repair program. That effort will focus on improving housing conditions while partnering with other community organizations to provide services that enhance the overall quality of life across struggling neighborhoods.

John Zaragoza currently serves as the County Supervisor on the Ventura County Board of Supervisors. He represents the Fifth District, which includes Oxnard and unincorporated areas near Oxnard. Supervisor Zaragoza has a long history of distinguished public service.  Supervisor Zaragoza began his career serving the public in 1962, working as a bus operator for the City of Oxnard. He was promoted to Assistant Transit Supervisor, then Refuse Supervisor and in 1978 was promoted to Refuse Superintendent.  As the manager of a major city program, John lead the way in implementing progressive automated commercial and residential refuse collection programs, which saved residents and businesses hundreds of thousands of dollars in refuse costs. He later lead the team which implemented recycling and household hazardous waste programs, including completing plans to close the local landfill and build a waste transfer and recycling facility (now known as the Del Norte Recycling and Transfer Station). John retired as Oxnard Refuse Superintendent in 1993, and was elected to the Oxnard City Council in 1996. He served as Mayor Pro tem and City Council member for 12 years, as well as serving on numerous board and commissions. His leadership brought Oxnard residents and businesses lower crime rates; improved programs for youth, recreation and seniors; high-quality affordable housing; increased budget reserves; outstanding environmental programs and increased job opportunities.

From early morning to sunset, Bob captured an array of activities and spirit of the day.  We are very grateful to Habitat volunteers for providing a strong foundation for this house and to Bob Carey for documenting this milestone day — Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County’s 55^th home.

CLICK HERE to view this engaging and educational video…and experience a day-in-the life of volunteers laying the foundation for a family’s future. Just as a strong foundation supports the entire structure of a house, stronger families mean stronger communities, and decent, affordable housing can be a gateway to both.

Now we are ready to build, up!  You can help Habitat build and repair houses and hope in your community by volunteering, donating, or helping spread the word about the need for safe, affordable housing.

About Montecito Bank & Trust.
Community Dividends® is a unique Montecito Bank & Trust program that has annually awarded $1 million dollars to over 150 nonprofits since 2003. The Community Dividends program focuses on supporting organizations or programs within organizations which primarily serve low- and moderate-income individuals and families in Santa Barbara and Ventura counties. Organizations with missions that serve the arts, education, social welfare, and medical and health services sectors will also be considered.

This special gifting program occurs at Thanksgiving time when many nonprofits face a budget shortfall. Nonprofits must be 501(c)(3) designated organizations to qualify for an award. One individual from each recipient nonprofit organization is invited to a fun filled luncheon, giving these hard working individuals a chance to be together and receive their organization’s award. It is truly one of the most special days of the year for Montecito Bank & Trust associates.

• If you’re getting married… IDoFoundation.org helps couples create gift registries, invitations, and party favors that benefit charitable organizations.

• If you have shoes cluttering up your closet… Soles4Souls.org distributes them to the poor and disaster-struck around the world.

• If you enjoy surfing (the internet, that is)… GoodSearch.com automatically donates to a favorite worthy group as you browse.

Source: Parade Magazine, November 27, 2011.

• If you have surplus or used building materials, appliances, furniture, doors, windows, sinks and tubs, home decor, lighting, and more… HabitatVentura.org accepts a wide range of donations for the Habitat ReStore, a discount home improvement center open to the public five days a week. All proceeds help Habitat build more homes for families in need in Ventura County.

Every Holiday season, Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County is honored to be a part of numerous Alternative Christmas Fairs along with many deserving charities!  If you are not familiar with the Alternative Christmas Fair concept, it is a wonderful way to ease holiday shopping stress, help raise funds for charities, and give a gift to those in need!

Many thanks to all church members, volunteers and shoppers who participated and gave so generously during the 2011 Holiday Season!

• Ascension Lutheran Church, Thousand Oaks: Through their Gifts of Hope program, Ascension Lutheran raised funds for the Burure Mission, World Hunger, and more than $7,000 for Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County.

• Church of the Foothills, Ventura: This year’s Christmas Fair was a great success.  Donations were made to Church World Services, Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County, Schools for Sierra Leone, Mixtic Group, Homeless Prevention Fund, Heifer International, Kasiisi Project, Chimpanzee Sanctuary & Wildlife Conservation Trust, and Goats for Life.

• Emmanuel Presbyterian Church, Thousand Oaks: The season of giving came early when Emmanuel Presbyterian opens its doors to local charities at its Community Mission Event. Participating charities included Manna Food Bank, Joni & Friends, the Ventura Rescue Mission, Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County, Grandmothers of the Light and Emmanuel Prison Ministry. The Christmas Market also partnered with Madroña Elementary School to encourage students to support the charities by donating food, clothing, shoes, books, wheelchairs, canes, walkers and travel toiletries to help those in need.

• First Presbyterian Church, Oxnard. The 8^th Annual Community Christmas Shoppe brought together volunteers from over 40 area churches to serve more than 1,000 local low income families, providing toys for Christmas and opportunities to make donations to charities in honor of loved ones. Charities included Heifer Project International, Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County, Ventura County FOOD Share, Bread of Life, and Oxnard Women’s Emergency Shelter.

• First United Methodist Church, Ventura. The Alternative Christmas Faire provided churchgoers a wonderful opportunity to learn more about local, national, and international organizations and donate to local charitable organizations as a gift to a loved one. Participating charities  included Project Understanding, Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County, CROP Hunger Walk, FOOD Share, Family to Family, Good Sam Cupboard, Narcotics Anonymous, Boy Scouts Troop 102.

• King of Glory Lutheran Church, Newbury Park: Many elves helped at the Alternative Christmas Market after church serves and preschool Christmas programs.  Many Christmas cards were given to friends and loved ones from donations to participating charities…Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County, Heifer Project International, and Fair Trade micro businesses in third world countries.

Emmanuel Prebysterian

Ann Huston, First United Methodist

Gifts of used vehicles can build homes through Habitat’s Cars for Homes program. By designating “Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County” as the recipient of the proceeds, you can help build homes in Ventura County.

Why should I donate my vehicle to Cars for Homes?

• 100% of the net proceeds of the sale will be distributed to your local Habitat for Humanity affiliate.
• Our local Habitat affiliate will use these funds to help build decent, affordable homes with families in our community, helping to break the cycle of poverty and homelessness.
• Your donation may qualify for a tax deduction
• Junk cars will be recycled, helping save energy and natural resources.

Through every step of the way, from ground breaking to move-in day, we are so grateful for your support and commitment to Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County.

Please join us in providing hope and brighter futures this holiday season.

Give a gift that keeps on giving by building not just a house, but a home! A home provides the foundation by which individuals, families, and children survive, thrive, and contribute to the vitality of our community.

Sincerely,
Stacy R. Swanson, Executive Director
Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County

]]> http://www.habitatventura.org/give-the-gift-of-hope-this-season/feed/ 0 http://www.habitatventura.org/a-very-special-thank-you-to-walnut-elementary-and-sycamore-canyon-students/ http://www.habitatventura.org/a-very-special-thank-you-to-walnut-elementary-and-sycamore-canyon-students/#comments Tue, 06 Dec 2011 13:51:26 +0000 Elizabeth http://www.habitatventura.org/?p=2559 …

• Foundations for both homes are well underway at 271 and 281 Stroube Street in Oxnard.

• Thanks to an outpouring of support from the community, the lot has been graded and trenches dug, and volunteers have placed rebar – a critical step in foundation work – and moving a lot of dirt around the site!

• Upcoming volunteer jobs at Stroube will focus on foundation work.

Are you interested in participating with us and making a difference?
Sign up to volunteer on the construction site by clicking http://www.habitatventura.org/volunteer/volunteer-sign-up.

Special thanks to: City of Oxnard,”Habitat to the Max” from St. Maximilian Kolbe Catholic Church, The Wednesday Crew, Seabees, AIMCO, Amgen, Bank of America, GAP, Inc., Villanova, California Lutheran University, Temple Etz Chaim, Westlake High School, Baxter, Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Zebra Technologies, San Bonaventure High School, Pepperdine University, Oxnard Children’s Dental Group, Ace Charter High School, Clear Program, Pepperdine Libraries, CLU Habitat Club, and Reiter Affiliated  Thanks to all for bringing our mission closer for another family.

More than 1,300 children from Walnut Elementary School and Sycamore Canyon School in Newbury Park are using their artwork to raise money for their schools and Habitat for Humanity of Ventura county!

The Holiday Greeting Card Program program, sponsored by Friendly Neighborhood Helpers, takes holiday-themed drawings by K-5 students and turns them into holiday gifts.

• From the students’ gallery, you can buy holiday cards, ornaments, bookmarks, t-shirts, aprons, and more!

• Proceeds will benefit Walnut Elementary, Sycamore Canyon, and Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County.

To support the Holiday Greeting Card Program, visit:

http://friendlyneighborhoodhelpers.zenfolio.com/habitatforhumanity_vc

About Friendly Neighborhood Helpers – “Kids Helping the World Through Art”
info@friendlyneighborhoodhelpers.org

Friendly Neighborhood Helpers was conceived by a bright first grader named Kennedy Buck who drew picture of the earth and said that she wanted to make copies to sell to raise money for charities and her school. She went on to say that she was going to invite her friends to do the same and, together, they all could help.

It is such a simple idea, but one that is very touching to see…a child wanting to help her community and the world by doing what she does best – drawing pictures. The artwork is the kind of artwork found on any family’s refrigerator but the gesture is that of angels.

Friendly Neighborhood Helpers
501-I So. Reino Rd., Suite #239  | Newbury Park, CA 91320
A 501(c)(3) non-profit charity.

The Clear Group lends a hand in Fillmore

To complete the Preservation project volunteers from The Clear Program, including our dedicated regulars from the Wednesday Crew, took care of business.  On this second day, all landscape work was completed.  This consisted of soil tilling at the front facade, adding fresh topsoil, flower planting, weed removal and mulch and paver placement at the side yard.  A very special thank you goes out to the ABWK homeowner’s neighbors since they donated pavers and metallic roof flashing material for the cause.

ABWK Home #3 in Thousand Oaks
As part of a “Serve Day”, students from California Lutheran University completed all landscape work in 2 shifts for ABWK home #3 located in Thousand Oaks.  Volunteers put in a good day’s work as they cleared brush, trimmed hedges and bushes, removed weeds and raked lots and lots of leaves.

For the second leg of the Preservation project, the home was prepped and primed for paint thanks to a small group of regular volunteers as well as the returning Clear Group.  Another heartfelt thank you is in order for Mr. Lance Kistler and Ken Diffenderfer for spray-painting the home and making work a bit easier for everybody.  Volunteers from the Delta Tau Delta Fraternity, the Pepperdine Women of Public Policy and Faith Lutheran Church dug in and finished the remaining work.  All house trim was painted and detailed, including the front door.  The existing sprinkler system that was inoperable was removed and replaced with all new sprinkler lines and heads.  And to cap off the rehab work, a fresh coat of blacktop was poured over the asphalt driveway making it new again.  Overall, the results are stunning - thanks to all volunteers who came to lend this homeowner a hand up.

Kudos to Kim Larkins, Cindy Garcia, John Hoffman and Ric Clark, our regular (Saturday) Crew Leaders for assisting on this ABWK home as well.

CLU helps out on their Serve Day

This year, Habitat for Humanity affiliates around the world  will engage in a series of special activities over six weeks to highlight the need for safe, decent and affordable shelter. The activities will begin on World Habitat Day, October 3, and will end in November with the 28th annual Jimmy & Rosalynn Carter Work Project in Haiti.

The purpose of World Habitat Day:

• To call attention to the current global state of the human habitat.
• To push toward adequate housing for all.
• To dismantle and alter the systems that reinforce and entrench poverty housing.
• To make an affordable, decent place to live a reality for all.

Get involved:

• Take action: Send a message to Congress. Ask your representatives to support affordable housing initiatives.
• Donate: Give today to help Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County

Primary events include:

• World Habitat Day: Habitat organizations in every U.S. state and in more than 40 other countries around the world will organize local World Habitat Day events throughout October. 
• Build Hope, An Evening Honoring Humanitarian Leadership: An evening event with dinner, entertainment and remarks from special guests will be held on Thursday, Oct. 6 in Washington, D.C. Build Hope will focus attention on World Habitat Day and will emphasize Habitat’s post disaster recovery work in Haiti. The event will also launch Habitat’s flagship annual event, the Jimmy & Rosalynn Carter Work Project. 
• Habitat’s 28th Annual Jimmy & Rosalynn Carter Work Project: This event will be held in Haiti, Nov. 5-12, as the culmination of Habitat’s observance of World Habitat Day. Carter Work Project volunteers will build 100 earthquake-resistant homes in the city of Léogâne — considered to be the epicenter of the January 2010 earthquake. Learn more about the 2011 JRCWP.
• Habitat’s Milestone Houses: Habitat for Humanity will mark a major milestone Oct. 3rd when it dedicates its 500,000th house in Maai Mahiu, Kenya, and begins construction on its 500,001st house in Paterson, N.J. Volunteers and homeowners are joining Habitat for Humanity Kenya and Paterson Habitat for Humanity in celebrating the milestones as part of events being held worldwide to mark World Habitat Day.

Orozco Home

As we come together in our community to serve families, we celebrate collaboration, hard work, and brighter futures.  The Orozco and Vergara families didn’t know each other before they were selected last year to be recipients of Habitat for Humanity houses. On Sunday, September 25th, they celebrated together … along with more than 150 community members at their Piru home dedications. Neither family has owned their own home before, and as part of the Habitat agreement, each family had to put in 500 hours of “sweat equity” before moving in. Being an integral part of the building process gives Habitat families new insight into caring for their homes and pride of homeownership for years to come.

The Orozco Family

Allied Beverages, Amgen, Banana Republic, Bank of America Spirit Team/Simi American, Bethany Covenant Church, Camp Ramah’s Ezra Program, Christian Church of  Thousand Oaks, First United Methodist Church, Gap, Inc., Habitat to the Max Ministry/St. Maximilian Kolbe Church, Intuit, Jensen Design & Surveys, Inc., Kavlico, Levi’s, Monsanto, North Ranch Body Craft, Pacifica Hotel Company, Porsche Club of America, Seabee Chiefs, Teradyne, Thousand Oaks Seventh Day Adventist Church, U.S. Bank Emerging Leaders, U.S. Navy, Squadron VR-55, Ventura Rotoract, Wednesday Crew, WellPoint, Wells Fargo.

Together, we are providing safe, decent, and affordable housing for families in need!

There are many needy and hard-working families who qualify for homes that are provided by the funds raised by the Habitat for Humanity organization in Ventura County. This year I will be riding my bike 100 miles on an organized ride through Ventura and Santa Barbara Counties on October 1^st to raise money for Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County with a goal of raising $30,000. In previous years many of you have generously donated to the cause and I am asking for your help again in 2011 to help me to raise money for this extremely satisfying and worthwhile cause.  Thanks to the generosity of many of my loyal supporters, I have already been able to commit over $8800 to this worthy cause.

If you prefer to donate on-line then please click on the following link (http://www.active.com/donate/habitatbilllarson) or if you prefer paying by check then please make your check payable to Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County (Tax I.D. # 77-0120376 and website www.habitatventura.org) and mail it to my personal address:

Bill Larson
5651 Hazelcrest Circle
Thousand Oaks, CA 91362

Thanks in advance for your generosity,
Bill Larson

Two deserving families have already been selected and will be able to move out of poverty housing and into decent shelter.  After completing the rigorous 5 month family selection process, they were approved as buyers of HFHVC’s next Habitat Homes.  While the families will help build their own homes by completing the required Sweat Equity Hours, they will also participate in HFHVC’s Homeowner Education Program.

“We are very excited about building these new Habitat homes in Oxnard”, said Stacy Swanson, Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County.  “Thanks to many generous sponsors and wonderful volunteers, we will help bring the dream of home-ownership one step closer for 2 more families”.

Are you interested in participating with us and making a difference?  Whether you’re an individual, a family, church or business, you can give a hand up to these families in need.  Sign up to volunteer on the construction site by clicking:

http://www.habitatventura.org/volunteer/volunteer-sign-up.

Sponsorship Levels & Benefits

HOME BUILDER   $150,000 – $200,000

• Full-color logo and exclusive placement on sponsorship area of signage
• Opportunity to participate in the wall-raising event during build kickoff
• Meet the future homeowner at the build kickoff
• Participate in a meal with the homeowner during construction of  the home
• Presentation of the key and opportunity to share remarks at the dedication event
• Up to 200 reserved volunteer spots
• Habitat provides your volunteers with lunch at the build site up to 5 times
• Receive 100 customized Home Builder T-shirts that include your logo
• Plaque with your logo and an 8” x 10” photo of the family and home
• Color logo included in website slideshow, plus logo included in one e-newsletter.
• Prominent recognition in all media alerts and printed materials
• Approved use of Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County name and logo for 12 months

FUTURE FRAMER   $100,000 – $150,000

• Full color logo prominently displayed on sign (with up to two additional sponsors)
• Opportunity to participate in wall-raising during build kickoff
• Meet the future homeowner at the build kickoff
• Participate in a meal with the homeowner during construction of the home
• Recognition at the dedication event
• Up to 100 reserved volunteer spots
• Habitat provides lunch for your volunteers at the build site up to 3 times
• Receive up to 50 customized Home Builder T-shirts that include your logo
• Plaque with your logo and 5” x 7” photo of the family and home
• Black and white logo included in website slideshow, plus logo in one e-newsletter
• Prominent recognition in all media alerts
• Approved use of Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County name and logo for nine months

ROOF RAISER  $50,000 – $75,000

• Black & White logo included on sign (with up to four additional home sponsors)
• Invited to help raise the first wall; recognized from podium during build events
• Opportunity to visit with the family during the course of the build
• Up to 50 reserved volunteer spots
• Habitat provides lunch for your volunteers at the build site up to 2 times.
• Receive up to 25 standard Home Builder T-shirts.
• Plaque with your logo and 4” x 6” photo of the family and home
• Name added to website, plus logo in sponsor e-newsletter
• Approved use of Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County and logo for four months

FOUNDATION BUILDER   $25,000 – $50,000

• Name included on sign in front of home
• Recognized from podium during build events
• Opportunity to meet family at build events
• Up to 20 reserved build opportunities
• Receive up to 15 standard Home Builder T-shirts for volunteers
• Group photo opportunity on site
• Thanked in e-newsletter
• Approved use of Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County name for two months

Over the 4th of July weekend, just down the street from the two new Habitat homes under construction in Piru, Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County served an additional family through A Brush With Kindness (ABWK), a component of our new Preserve a Home program. The exterior of this home received some TLC thanks to volunteers from the Christian Church and Intuit of Thousand Oaks.

To start things off, Marty Milligan, Pastor, and volunteers from the Christian Church braved 100°+ weather as they removed weeds, dug a trench for a French drain, installed it, placed jute along the back slope of the backyard and spread fresh mulch throughout most of the surface area.  To finish the day, the home was power-washed and prepped for paint.

The next day, the hot weather returned as did the volunteers from the Christian Church.  While the final part of the landscape work was being finished, the exterior of the home was painted thanks to Mr. Lance Kistler along with additional assistance from the volunteers.  At lunch time, Demetrio Silva and Noe Saravia, Habitat for Humanity Homeowners, provided a “carne asada” lunch for the ABWK volunteers as well as for the volunteers working on the new homes.

Bringing things to a close, Mr. Don Majors, a regular Wednesday Crew volunteer, restored a fallen side gate and installed an irrigation drip line in the backyard.  Volunteers from Intuit of Thousand Oaks brought the home preservation project to full completion by placing the finishing touches and performing final clean up.

A great deal of work was completed by the Christian Church and Intuit, and at the end of the day, volunteers were left with a great sense of accomplishment and satisfaction for the service performed for the homeowner.

“A Brush with Kindness is part of our larger neighborhood revitalization initiative and Preserve a Home program. This initiative gives us a great opportunity to help more families as well as have an impact on the entire neighborhood,” said Stacy Swanson, Executive Director.　”Helping people repair and maintain their homes fits in　seamlessly with our core mission of making decent, affordable housing available to families in need.”

Do you have a home or know of one that needs some work?  Pre-applications for ABWK are available here: http://habitatventura.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/ABWK-Homeowner-Pre-application1.pdf.  Would you like to volunteer on ABWK home?  We welcome volunteers as young as 14 years of age on our ABWK sites.  Each individual can have a large impact on a project.  You can sign up and become a volunteer here:  http://www.habitatventura.org/volunteer/volunteer-sign-up.

A huge thank you is in order for Marty Milligan and the Christian Church of Thousand Oaks. Their hard work and efforts helped Habitat complete its very first A Brush With Kindness (ABWK) project under the Preserve a Home Program. The group braved 100°+ for two days nonetheless, the work was completed with a modest attitude and beautiful results. A great job was done and it was a wonderful experience for all. We look forward to seeing the Christian Church of Thousand Oaks on another of Habitat jobsite soon.

We would also like to give special thanks to Mr. Lance Kistler for his painting expertise and labor. Mr. Don Majors also deserves praise for his work in restoring the fallen side gate and installing irrigation drip lines at the home’s backyard. An excellent job was done by both.

And last, but certainly not least, a big thank you goes to the Volunteers from Intuit of Thousand Oaks. Thanks to them, the first ABWK home preservation project was brought to completion by placing the finishing touches and performing final clean up.

Are you interested in revitalizing your neighborhood or community and making an immediate impact? Please contact Kathleen O’Halloran or Felipe Flores at (805) 485-6065 and see how you can make a difference.

Volunteer labor helps keep costs down so that ReStore prices remain affordable to all. Staff at the ReStore will provide training to all volunteers. No previous experience is needed, and we welcome all volunteers regardless of physical ability and expertise. Volunteers must complete a volunteer liability form and take part in a quick orientation prior to any volunteer activity. If a volunteer is under the age of 18 a parent or guardian must also sign liability form. All volunteers must be over the age of 14 and any volunteer under 16 must have a parent or guardian in attendance. There is no upper age limit for volunteers. We ask that you inform us of any physical limitations you have so that we can assure you are safe and comfortable when you work with us.

The ReStore is very flexible about volunteer schedules; you may work a regular schedule or on an occasional basis. We accept volunteers all hours the store is open: Tuesday-Friday 9-5 and Saturday 8-4. A volunteer tag must be worn during all shifts. Tags are provided by the sign in sheet at the register counter. Volunteers should wear sturdy, closed‐toed shoes and neat work clothes.

We promise a positive and rewarding experience in an upbeat, positive, and friendly atmosphere. Each volunteer makes an important contribution to our efforts to reduce poverty housing in Ventura County, helping to meet Habitat for Humanity’s goal of assuring that all people have a simple, decent place to live.

The first family to participate in Preserve a Home’s A Brush With Kindness has been selected.  The exterior of the home will be given TLC as volunteers from the Christian Church of Thousand Oaks complete landscape work such as weed removal, planting and mulch placement.  A fresh coat of paint will complete the revitalization of the home.

A Brush with Kindness is a Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County program that preserves our communities and enables low-income homeowners to maintain safe, livable shelter by focusing on simple yet necessary exterior housing improvements.  Volunteer teams, such as the Christian Church of Thousand Oaks, work to improve the condition of homes by painting, landscaping, and completing minor exterior repairs at minimal costs in partnership with homeowners who are unable to do so on their own.  Those that are physically able are asked to work alongside the volunteers throughout the completion of the preservation project.  The program is for homeowners earning between 20%-50% of the median income of Ventura County.

Homeowners are provided the needed supplies and skilled labor in order to complete improvement projects utilizing no-profit, no-interest loans.  These loans will cover the process up to $2,000. The payments from these loans will be returned to Habitat in order to fund additional home preservation projects in the future.

Do you have a home or know of one that needs some work?  Applications for A Brush With Kindness are available on our website located at www.habitatventura.org.

Would you like to volunteer on A Brush With Kindness Home?  We welcome all volunteers as young as 14 years of age on our sites.  Each individual can have a large impact on a project.  You can sign up and become a volunteer through our website at www.habitatventura.org.

Stacy Swanson, Executive Director
Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County
(805) 485-6065, x201
stacys@habitatventura.org

Habitat for Humanity International’s Cars for Homes program reaches $10 million milestone nationwide

Oxnard, CA (June 8, 2011) – Habitat for Humanity’s Cars for Homes program has distributed more than $10 million to Habitat affiliates nationwide.

The Cars for Homes program began in the state of Washington in November 2003 as a pilot program. In 2005, it was approved as a national program of Habitat for Humanity International. The Cars for Homes program was created specifically to assist Habitat affiliates by generating funding from the sale of donated vehicles. Revenue is distributed to affiliates based on the zip code of the donor.

“Since this program began, our affiliate has received more than $45,000 through Cars for Homes,” said Stacy Swanson, Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County.  “Those dollars go directly to help us build more homes for families in need right here in our community.  This is a creative way for people to be generous and address a critical need in Ventura County.”

Cars for Homes is Habitat for Humanity’s national vehicle donation program that provides donors a quick and easy process for donating cars, trucks, boats, RVs and other vehicles to help build homes in partnership with local low-income families in need of decent, affordable shelter.

More than 1,100 Habitat affiliates nationwide and five Habitat national offices around the world have received funding from the program.

“We are very pleased to have reached this major milestone with the Cars for Homes program,” said Marcia Rundle, the director of the program. “Thanks to our generous donors, Habitat affiliates have been able to use the funds earned from the recycling of used and idle vehicles to help address affordable housing needs in their communities.”

To donate a vehicle or learn more about Cars for Homes, go to http://www.habitat.org/carsforhomes.
Visit Habitat World Blog to view a related slide show.

About Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County
Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County, a locally-run affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International, has built homes for 52 Ventura County families and rehabilitated over 500 homes since 1983.  This summer, another two homes will be completed in Piru, and construction of two single family homes in Oxnard will begin. Homeowners are selected based on their need for housing, ability to repay a no-interest loan, and willingness to partner with Habitat for Humanity. Loan repayments contribute to help build additional houses. Because Habitat’s loans are no-profit, they are affordable for low-income family partners. In 2011, the affiliate launched a new Preserve A Home initiative. This initiative will enable the affiliate to serve more families by responding to community housing needs with an expanded array of neighborhood revitalization products, services, and partnerships. Visit www.habitatventura.org for more information about our programs and the Habitat ReStore, a discount home improvement store opened to the public.

About Habitat for Humanity International
Habitat for Humanity International is an ecumenical Christian ministry that welcomes to its work all people dedicated to the cause of eliminating poverty housing. Since its founding in 1976, Habitat has built, rehabilitated, repaired or improved 400,000 houses worldwide, providing simple, decent and affordable shelter for more than 2 million people. For more information, or to donate or volunteer, visit Habitat.org.

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Build Hope. Build Homes. Build Communities.

Donate your used car or vehicle. Donations to Habitat for Humanity’s Cars for Homes™ program help local Habitat for Humanity affiliates build and rehabilitate houses in partnership with families in need. All net revenue generated from the sale of donated vehicles is distributed to local Habitat for Humanity affiliates where donors live or, if specifically designated, to an affiliate of your choice.

All vehicles are welcome. Cars for Homes™ accepts cars, trucks, boats, RVs, motorcycles and construction equipment. Vehicles are accepted whether they run or not. 

Donating a vehicle is quick and easy! It’s an easy three-step process to recycle your used cars, trucks, boats, RVs, motorcycles, construction equipment or other vehicles.

What are the tax benefits of donating a vehicle? Habitat for Humanity is a 501(c)(3) non-profit. If you itemize deductions on your income tax return, you may be entitled to deduct the gross sales value of your donated vehicle. Donors will receive appropriate receipts and should consult their tax advisor and/or the IRS to determine benefits.

Processing vehicle donations: All vehicle donations are processed by Advanced Remarketing Services, Inc., and sold on behalf of Habitat for Humanity. Typically, a donated vehicle is picked up within 2 or 3 days after the title is received. Online donations speed up the process.  The online Donation Wizard will tell you what documents are required in your state.

Donate online
or call toll-free 877-277-4344

Your car donation will make an impact on the lives of
many deserving families in Ventura County.

Thank you!

For more information about Habitat for Humanity’s Cars for Homes™ car donation program, visit www.carsforhomes.org or e-mail carsforhomes@habitat.org.

A home provides the foundation by which individuals, families, and children survive, thrive, and contribute to the vitality of our community.

• We are happy to report that the physical foundations for both homes are well underway at 271 and 281 Stroube Street in Oxnard.
• Thanks to an outpouring of support from the community, the lot has been graded and trenches dug. Volunteers are placing rebar – a critical step in foundation work – and moving a lot of dirt around the site!

• We will have volunteers onsite every Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

• Upcoming volunteer jobs at Stroube will focus on foundation work.
  

Special thanks to:

City of Oxnard,”Habitat to the Max” from St. Maximilian Kolbe Catholic Church, The Wednesday Crew, Seabees, AIMCO, Amgen, Bank of America, GAP, Inc., Villanova, California Lutheran University, Temple Etz Chaim, Westlake High School, Baxter, Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Zebra Technologies, San Bonaventure High School, Pepperdine University, Oxnard Children’s Dental Group, Ace Charter High School, Clear Program, Pepperdine Libraries, CLU Habitat Club, and Reiter Affiliated  Thanks to all for bringing our mission closer for another family.

Are you interested in participating with us and making a difference? 

Whether you’re an individual, a family, church or business, you can give a hand up to these families in need.  Sign up to volunteer on the construction site by clicking:

http://www.habitatventura.org/volunteer/volunteer-sign-up.

How does it work?
Homeowners are provided the needed supplies and skilled labor in order to complete projects utilizing no-profit, no-interest loans. These loans will cover the process up to $2,000. The payments from these loans will be returned into a revolving Fund for Humanity in order to fund additional projects in the future..

Am I eligible?
Applicants who wish to participate in the ABWK program must meet the following standards:
• Own and occupy a home in Ventura County that is in need of external home repairs.
• Meet the Income Guidelines (outlined below)
• Be willing to partner with Habitat for Humanity Ventura County to complete approximately 10 hours of Sweat Equity time.
• Possess, or be willing to acquire, Home Owner’s Insurance.
• Be a legal resident of the United States and Ventura County.

How do I apply?
Applications for A Brush With Kindness are available on our website located by clicking on the link: ABWK Homeowner Pre-application.  If you do not have printer access, please visit the Habitat for Humanity Ventura County Office at (121 S. Rice Ave), or contact the Habitat for Humanity office at (805) 485-6065 ext. 202, and one can be mailed to you. All completed family pre-applications will be screened to ensure that the Program’s minimum qualifications are met.

What else will I need?
When qualified families advance to actual application process, they will need to provide copies of the following documents:
• Last 3 months of pay stubs, or other form of proof of consistent income.
• Name, Address and Phone Number of Current Employer
• Your most recently filed tax return
• Proof of child support or public service (Social Security, Food Stamps, etc.)
• Proof of home ownership (May be done with a Deed of Trust, or your most recent property tax receipt)
• Proof of current homeowner’s insurance

Income Guidelines
Please use the income guideline chart listed below to determine if you meet the income guidelines to qualify for the program.

The income guidelines listed below fall below between 30%-50% of the median income of Ventura County. Compare it to your family’s total yearly income, before taxes and from all sources.

Adults in the Home                 Gross Income Between
              1                                 $18,400 – $30,650
              2                                 $21,000 – $35,000
              3                                 $23,650 – $39,400
              4                                 $26,250 – $43,750
              5                                 $28,350 – $47,250
              6                                 $30,450 – $50,750
              7                                 $32,550 – $54,250
              8                                 $34,650 – $57,750

To download the Pre-application (in Adobe Acrobat/.pdf), please click on the following link:  ABWK Homeowner Pre-application

Please mail/fax/email the completed form to:

Habitat for Humanity Ventura County
Attn.: Preserve a Home Program – ABWK
121 S. Rice Ave
Oxnard CA 93030
Phone No.: (805) 485-6065 ext. 202
Fax No.: (805) 485-5795
Email: felipef@habitatventura.org

Don’t have a printer?  You can use or on-line form below.
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The roar of circular saws and the loud bang of hammers rang across Piru’s Temescal Street on Saturday morning as builders worked to finish a pair of houses on a lot formerly occupied by a dilapidated hotel. With the exception of three crew members, all of the 50 volunteers were women.

Rosa Montelongo of Thousand Oaks was the recipient of a Habitat house and now volunteers.  “I feel so happy to go back to work here,” Montelongo said. “You meet these people who have such big hearts, and it’s so cool to be a part of building homes.”

Susana Vergara of Oxnard will be moving into one of the homes with her husband, Ricardo, and their two daughters. “I’m very emotional about it all,” said Vergara. “Being here, building my own home and being able to come back to Piru where my family is, it’s just wonderful.” Habitat recipients must provide at least 500 hours of work on their houses. “I’ve done around 850 hours,” Vergara said.

Stacy Swanson, Habitat for Humanity Executive Director said, “I’m in constant awe of the volunteers who come build houses with us. It’s such a tangible thing to be a part of, to provide homes for people, and it’s very rewarding, especially in these times.”

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About the Habitat for Humanity / Lowe’s Women Build Week. The Women Build program empowers women, enabling them to positively impact the lives of children by making home ownership a present reality for families.  A Women Build is not about excluding men; it’s about including women.

In the days leading up to Mother’s Day construction crews of female volunteers will raise their hammers at Habitat for Humanity construction sites across the country in recognition of National Women Build Week, April 30 to May 8. The Mother’s Day time frame was selected for its significance to many volunteers. Families with children make up a staggering number of those in need of adequate housing. More than 12 million children – one in six – live in poverty housing in the United States alone.

Habitat for Humanity’s Women Build, underwritten by Lowe’s, recruits, educates and nurtures women to build – and advocate for – simple, decent and affordable house in their communities.   Lowe’s is contributing more than $1.3 million to National Women Build Week and providing $5,000 Lowe’s gift cards and build materials to more than 250 Habitat affiliates.

The 7^th Annual “Habitat to the Max” Dinner & Auction, held on March 26th, raised $87,000 — and counting — for House #5!!

A heartfelt thank you to all who attended the dinner, bid on auction items or purchased raffled tickets, to local businesses and individuals who donated to the live and silent auctions, and to the volunteers who contributed hundreds of hours of their time. Very special thanks to top donors Bill and Joan Larson (Top Fundraiser 2010), Joann & Stan Benson, William & Terry Schmidt Charitable Foundation, George Pond/State Farm Insurance, and the Leonis Family Foundation; and to our very generous  in-kind donors Lou & Sas Acosta, Kenny Lee/Merlin’s Kitchen, Susan & Roger Pigozzi, and Stonefire Grill.

Revenue raised from all fundraising events supports Habitat for Humanity’s mission to eliminate substandard housing and reverse the cycle of poverty in Ventura County.

House sponsorships are now available for new home builds in Oxnard and Santa Paula, and for our new “Preserve A Home” program.  Please send an email to stacys@habitatventura.org for more information about sponsorship opportunities and funding levels.

During their week here, the Westminster students helped build two houses in Piru with Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County staff and volunteers.  “We were excited to host these students during their spring break,” said Stacy Swanson, Executive Director. “Their work will help two very deserving low-income families in need obtain safe, decent, and affordable homes, which should leave them with a very memorable spring break experience.”

From February to April, Collegiate Challenge participants from across the country volunteer in more than 200 Habitat locations.  In the past 21 years of the program, more than 168,000 Collegiate Challenge participants have volunteered with Habitat during their school breaks.

For more information about the Collegiate Challenge, visit www.habitat.org.

Our sincere thanks to all of the boat owners at H-dock for supporting Habitat’s mission to provide simple, decent, affordable homes for families in need and helping to reverse the cycle of poverty.

H-dock boat owners presenting the gift card were Clarissa Job, Mike and Cherri Taylor, Tom Yragui, Elizabeth Testa, Tom Newhard, and “Skipper” Bob presenting the gift card to Habitat for Humanity.

Future build sites include 2 single-family homes on Stroube Street in Oxnard, 5-6 single-family units in Santa Paula, and 14 single-family units on Cypress in Oxnard.

Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County builds simple, decent homes in partnership with low-income Partner Families and the help of volunteer labor, generous donations and sponsorships.  These homes are sold to qualifying Partner Families without profit and financed with affordable, no interest loans.  The homeowners’ monthly mortgage payments are used to build additional Habitat homes.

To offset the increasing cost of building, sponsorships are needed to cover infrastructure, construction, and project oversight for 22 homes.

Habitat for Humanity is open to all sponsorship proposals and welcomes cash or in-kind donations for home construction.  Your company, faith-based group, or organization can make a significant difference by helping to build a safe and decent home for a family in need. For more information about sponsorships, please email stacys@habitatventura.org or call (805) 485-6065.

In early 2011, we launched the great website you’re visiting today. A million thanks to Andrew!
Now, you can follow  the latest news and upcoming events… sign up as a volunteer using our improved and easy-to-use registration process, view a ton of photographs with our Picasa link, donate online, and even be connected to our Facebook.

About Pinstripe Social Media…
Pinstripe Social Media was founded by Andrew VanConas, a recognized expert in online user assistance. Andrew has more than 15 years of experience helping people utilize technology in an efficient way. He has a personable approach to technology that helps people understand complex topics quickly. Starting as a Technical Writer in the early 1990s, Andrew has witnessed the many shifts in the way we digest information — from paper and PDF to Web sites, email and Blogs.  Pinstripe Social Media is pioneering internet marketing and public relations for businesses in Ventura County.

Please know that without volunteers we would not be able to keep costs down so the ReStore prices remain affordable to all.

Support from volunteers like you will bring us one step closer to our mission of providing safe, decent, and affordable housing to families in need across Ventura County.  Thank you!

We invite you to be a part of our next big fundraising event on Saturday, March 26, 2011 — the 7th Annual “Habitat to the Max” Dinner and Auction.

You can help this year by contributing items for our silent and live auctions. Donations of all kinds are needed, including: gift certificates, gift baskets, tickets to sports events, theater and concerts, restaurants, weekend or week-long get-aways, food and wine, home improvement and decor items, rounds of golf, memberships, beauty and fitness, sports equipment, and hotel reservations. 

Please consider how you can help us raise funds to build another Habitat for Humanity home in partnership with a very deserving family.  For additional information about this event, please contact Mirtha Helt at (818) 292-1896 (Habitat to the Max Team) or Elizabeth Mayer at (805) 485-6065, x202 (Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County).

Board of Directors Build

Habitat for Humanity Board of Directors invited family, friends and colleagues to enjoy a beautiful day in Piru working on the 53rd Habitat house.  Today’s event provided an opportunity for many people to experience the construction side of Habitat for Humanity for the first time!  There were also a number of long-time volunteers who worked side-by-side with first-timers to ensure a safe, productive, and fun day.  We would like to extend our thanks to all volunteers — and to Starbucks and Stonefire Grill for providing morning coffee and a delicious lunch.    View all photos.

This year marks the 25^th anniversary of the Martin Luther King Jr. Day.  Through his words and examples, Dr. King challenged individuals to take action and lift up their neighbors and communities through service.  On behalf of the Board of Directors and staff at Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County, we would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the more than 500 volunteers and generous donors who helped us build our 52^nd Habitat home,  joining together to lift up those in need.  Working in partnership with Habitat family-partners, Javier and Rosa Montelongo, volunteers contributed more than 7,000 hours of labor, offering a “Hand Up” not a hand-out.  Volunteers provided their valuable time and labor – from architectural design and planning to roofing and painting – truly building hope from the ground up!

Property Donation:  Bruce and Zona Strathearn
Architectural Design: Roy Colbert, Architect and Jessica Manos, Project Designer
Major House Sponsor: HCA/Los Robles Hospital and Medical Center
Home Builders: 500+ dedicated volunteers building hope, changing lives!
Build Sponsor: Faith & Service Coalition (Emmanuel, Monte Vista & Westminster Presbyterian Churches and Kiwanis Clubs)
Family Services: Ronda Chung, Leticia Tejeda, Sandy Burris
Construction materials and labor: Aladdin Air Conditioning, Angelus Block, August Roofing, Back4California, Blois Construction, Reyes Masonry
Family Quilts: Conejo Valley Quilters
Refreshments: Holy Trinity Church
Blessing & Prayers: Pastor Melissa Maxwell-Doherty, CLU Campus Pastor and Pastor Stuart Bond, Emmanuel PresbyterianChurch

Please join us to celebrate this joyous day.  The event will begin at 2:00 PM with introductions and opening remarks, followed by a formal house dedication and blessing, a tour of the new home, photos, and refreshments.

Sponsors include: HCA/Los Robles Hospital (major house sponsor),  Aladdin Air Conditioning, Angeles Block, August Roofing, Back4California, Blois Construction, John Franco, Michael Weeks Construction, Reycon Construction, and the Faith and Service Coalition.  We would like to extend our sincere thanks to the Faith and Service Coalition (Westminster, Emmanuel, and Monte Vista Presbyterian Churches, and the Kiwanis Club) for their generous support and contributions.

Sunday, November 7 from 12:00 – 4:00 pm Registration 12:005K Walk/Run 1:00

Location: California Lutheran University, 60 West Olsen Road, Thousand Oaks, CA 91360.
Registration: $20/person; $40/family Registration opens at 12:00 noon Kingsmen Park on Memorial Parkway.
To pre-register:
-    Call Lutheran Social Services at 805-497-6207 or Habitat for Humanity at 805-485-6065, x2
-    Or register online at www.active.com “Hearts for Humanity 5K Walk/Run”
Special thanks to Reiter Affiliated Companies, Shave-It, and Dole Packaged Foods for their sponsorship, support, and donations. All sponsors and vendors will be recognized at the event. *www.Santatothesea.com

The evening festivities begin at 5:30 pm with a VIP Reception at the Theater (sponsored by Corona), where Los Lobos will meet guests and sign autographs. The VIP reception includes exceptional food tastings, a selection of beverages, and silent auction. Guests who attend the VIP reception will have an opportunity to win a helicopter tour of the Channel Islands, Puerto Vallarta Condo, Disneyland Park Hopper tickets, free pizza for six months, and more.

Concert doors open at 7:00 pm. Tickets are $50 for general admission and $150 for the VIP Reception. To purchase tickets, call 805-653-0721 or stop by the box office at 26 S. Chestnut Street in Ventura (www.venturatheater.net).

United Way Appeal: It will soon be time for the United Way appeal. Although Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County is not a United Way designated nonprofit, you can still donate to our affiliate through the United Way appeal. Just write in your donation under “other.” It is an easy and painless way to support our mission.

Book Recycling Center: Do you have books gathering dust, but you can’t bear to part with them? How about recycling them to Habitat’s benefit? The Abednego Book Shop, a new/used bookstore in Ventura, is accepting books donated for resale to benefit Habitat for Humanity. Books can be delivered to the bookstore at 2160 Thompson Blvd. (just north of Seaward). If you have lots of books and need a pick up, please call Nancy at 805-981-1702

There are many deserving and hard-working families who qualify to purchase homes that are built in partnership with Habitat-partner families, volunteers, and funds raised by Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County. Last year Bill raised $28,000 and this year he raised over $30,000.

“In previous years, many of you have generously donated to the cause, and I am asking for your help again in 2010 to help me to raise money for this extremely satisfying and worthwhile cause. Thanks for your generosity.” – Bill Larson

We appreciate your support. To make a donation online, visit http://www.active.com/donate/habitatbilll. If you prefer to send a check, please make it payable to ‘Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County” and mail it to Bill Larson’s home address: 5651 Hazelcrest Circle, Thousand Oaks, CA 91362. Thank you!