On April 16, 2024, we had the privilege of attending the Donor & Volunteer Appreciation Breakfast hosted by Habitat for Humanity of Greenville County. Held at Brookwood Church, this event celebrated the invaluable contributions of volunteers and donors and underscored the ongoing commitment to providing affordable housing in our community.
A Legacy of Building Homes and Hope
Habitat for Humanity of Greenville County opened its doors in 1985 to bring families, community partners, and volunteers together to construct affordable, energy-efficient homes that help families build strength, stability, and self-reliance. By April 2024, they completed their 410th home.
Their efforts have not gone unnoticed, earning them the 2017 Builder of the Year award from EarthCraft and maintaining high ratings from Charity Navigator and Guidestar for financial health, accountability, and transparency.
In recognition of these remarkable milestones, Habitat for Humanity sought to honor the partners whose support has been instrumental in this journey.
Recognizing Dedication and Support
The appreciation breakfast was a heartfelt acknowledgment of the numerous stakeholders who have played a crucial role in Habitat’s mission. Among the notable honorees were Fitch Irick and Creative Builders, who received commendations for their dual roles in furthering Habitat’s goals:
1. Build Partner Plaque for Land Donation. Fitch Irick and Creative Builders were recognized for their substantial contribution in 2023 by donating land at Sturtevant. This generous donation helped create new homes and provided a foundation for future Habitat homes.
2. Corporate Donors of the Year. Ongoing financial support has been instrumental in propelling Habitat Greenville’s initiatives, helping to fund the construction of homes and implementing supportive programs that empower homeowners.
Monroe Free, President and CEO of Habitat for Humanity of Greenville County, lauded the efforts of these partners
"Fitch Irick helped us find a new and unique model for creating affordable housing opportunities in the Greenville area," said Monroe Free. "Their support means so much to our families."
A Commitment to the Community
The event also served as a platform to encourage continued support. Attendees were reminded of the various ways to engage with Habitat, including donating, volunteering, and shopping at Habitat’s ReStore locations at 3033 Wade Hampton Boulevard and 1818 Woodruff Road. These outlets provide financial support for the organization and also offer community members a chance to contribute to sustainability practices by purchasing used goods.
Looking Forward
As we reflect on the successes of the past and the plans for the future, it is clear that the strength of Habitat for Humanity of Greenville County lies in its community involvement and the unwavering support of its partners.
The path forward is filled with opportunities for more community engagement and innovation in sustainable and affordable housing.
For those interested in learning more about Habitat for Humanity of Greenville County and how to get involved, please visit their official website at habitatgreenville.org.
This gathering was not just a celebration of past achievements but a rallying call to continue the vital work of making affordable housing accessible to all who need it in Greenville County. Together, we build more than houses; we build community, hope, and opportunities for a brighter future.