Common Ground
 What does a scuba dive, lemonade stand, plant sale, fashion show, jewelry made from building scraps, a wedding and a Bible school class have in common? Habitat for Humanity! Yes, these are all ways that folks have found to creatively use their interests, time and relationships to make Habitat part of their day-to-day lives.
Everybody knows what it takes to build a Habitat house: lots of hours, hands, hammers, brushes, sweat, nails, boards…and yes, money. In addition to the “hard costs” of a house, which are paid for by the sponsor, there is a substantial amount of “soft costs,” such as land, engineering and architectural services. We have tons of people willing to swing a hammer. We have youngsters inspired by the vision, but unable to don a hardhat because of insurance restrictions. We have a lot of folks intimidated by the costs of sponsorship in a tight economy, thinking, “What difference could my meager gift possibly make?” On the building site, one is quickly overwhelmed by the flurry of activity, but the reality is that each person only puts in one nail at a time. Every gift makes a difference, not only because of the “bricks and mortar” (and windows and siding) or box of nails that gift represents, but also because it is one more person, family or group that is thinking of us and encouraging us.
We are delighted when we hear about groups and individuals who have a fundraiser, run a business or receive a gift and share part of that with us. It’s exciting to read the little notes that our donors occasionally include with their checks:
“Our youth group collected change in banks and wanted to share it with you.” “I’m 8 and set up a lemonade stand and here is some of the money I made.”
“Our Vacation Bible School used the ‘Under Construction’ lesson plans and made Habitat our mission of the week.”
 “Our scuba clubs got together on Saturday, had a picnic and dive and raised over $3,000 for you!”
The list goes on. A bunch of small gifts add up. Of our donors in 2002, though there were several who regularly gave $100 or more, there were a substantial number giving monthly in the $10-25 and $26-50 ranges. Tell us your stories as you give us your gifts – they encourage us and others! Think about giving regularly – it keeps us on your mind and you in ours. Share the vision with others and incorporate the mission of Habitat into everyday life – offer “a hand up, not a hand-out.”
Planning (or had) an event you'd like us to know about? Email doyle@habitatstl.org!
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