PRESS RELEASE
Contact: Tom Lally, Executive Director
Office: 913.342.3047 Cell: 913.832.5791
tom@heartlandhabitat.org
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 23, 2012
HEARTLAND HABITAT RESTORE IN JOHNSON COUNTY CELEBRATES FIRST YEAR OF COMMUNITY AND ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
(OVERLAND PARK, KS) – What was once an empty store front at 87th Street and Farley in Overland Park, Kansas is now a hub of donor and customer activity, thanks to Heartland Habitat for Humanity ReStore. Heartland Habitat ReStore is a retail outlet that accepts donations of surplus building materials, appliances, furniture and fixtures, and resells them to the public at 20% to 80% off retail prices. Net proceeds from ReStore help support the mission of Heartland Habitat for Humanity.
Heartland Habitat ReStore in Johnson County will mark its first anniversary milestone with a day of special sales and promotions on Saturday, February 4 from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Free refreshments will be available between 11 a.m. - 1 p.m., while supplies last. The store is located at 9850 W. 87th Street in Overland Park.
"The success of Heartland Habitat's Overland Park location has been due to the support of the people of Johnson County who have taken our mission to heart and donated literally hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of home improvement materials that we can resell," said Wally Binney, Heartland Habitat's Director of ReStores.
Heartland Habitat ReStore's Johnson County location was initially made possible through a $100,000 grant by Humana Communities Benefit in Kansas City. The seed money enabled Heartland Habitat to expand its ReStore operation beyond its original outlet at 520 S. 55th Street in Kansas City, Kansas. During Heartland Habitat ReStore in Johnson County's first year in operation, close to $40,000 of sales tax revenue was generated back to the state and local economies. In addition, together, Heartland Habitat's two current ReStore locations have diverted 593 tons of usable items from local landfills. Plans for a third location in Kansas City's Northland community are currently underway.
Binney, who began his position with Heartland Habitat last fall and brought with him years of experience in the building supplies and surplus retail industry, is excited about what Heartland Habitat ReStore has in store for its next year of operation. Plans for 2012 include a greater emphasis on "green" living, and equipping individuals with the knowledge and supplies necessary for energy efficient home renovations. To this end, Heartland Habitat ReStore in Johnson County has already opened a section of its store called "Green Store" that carries sustainable and energy efficient products. A series of workshops on "green" living will also be held this spring.
"I love working at Heartland Habitat ReStore because it's about more than offering affordable solutions for individuals looking to improve their homes, or about keeping tons of usable materials out of local landfills every year. Everything ReStore does supports the mission of Heartland Habitat for Humanity, its efforts to build affordable homes and strong communities throughout the Kansas City metropolitan area, and its commitment to improving the quality of life for local families," said Binney.
About Heartland Habitat for Humanity
Serving Wyandotte, Johnson and Leavenworth counties in Kansas and Clay and Platte counties in Missouri, Heartland Habitat’s mission is to build simple, decent homes and communities in partnership with God’s people in need while following biblical principles. Celebrating its 25th Anniversary in 2012, Heartland Habitat has built or rehabbed 240 homes for local families. For more information about Heartland Habitat or to sign-up to participate on a volunteer crew, visit www.heartlandhabitat.org or call 913-342-3047.
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PRESS RELEASE
Contact: Tom Lally, Executive Director
Office: 913.342.3047 Cell: 913.832.5791
tom@heartlandhabitat.org
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 10, 2011
HEARTLAND HABITAT PARTNERS WITH EL DORADO INC ON ECO-FRIENDLY HOUSING PROTOTYPE
(KANSAS CITY, KS) – Heartland Habitat for Humanity and nationally-recognized Kansas City-based architecture firm el dorado inc have partnered to explore sustainable, affordable housing for local families in need. This project will allow Habitat for Humanity to rethink affordable housing and use Heartland Habitat’s eco-friendly prototype home as an example to other Habitat affiliates nationwide. The home is scheduled to begin construction in Spring 2012 in Kansas City, Kansas.
The relationship between Heartland Habitat and el dorado inc is part of the 1% for Habitat Initiative, a pilot partnership of Public Architecture and Habitat for Humanity International that matches non-profit organizations with pro bono design services from Public Architecture’s network of nearly 1,000 architecture firms. Heartland Habitat was one of five Habitat affiliates nationwide selected to participate in the program.
“The 1% for Habitat Initiative allows Heartland Habitat and el dorado inc to explore affordable, sustainable housing within the context of a national conversation,” said Josh Shelton, Principal at el dorado inc. “This incredible opportunity could not be more timely for America.”
The 1% for Habitat Initiative will challenge Heartland Habitat and el dorado inc to build a home that exceeds Habitat’s guidelines for design, budget and buildability, while aiming for the lowest environmental and adverse health impact. The prototype designed by el dorado inc will feature three bedrooms, two baths and a floor plan that is safe and accessible for families with multiple generations living under one roof. In addition, it will focus on maximizing the home’s responsiveness to its environment through natural ventilation principles, recyclable materials, innovative insulation strategies and efficient lighting systems. The design will create an outdoor-oriented home by including a covered front porch, outdoor living room, rainwater collection system and a workshop that opens to a vegetable garden.
The innovative and thoughtful design of el dorado inc’s prototype is anticipated to reduce energy demands placed on the homeowner during season transitions, thus providing the homeowner savings in their energy bills during the course of a year.
“Heartland Habitat has been actively seeking out opportunities to build sustainable homes and has been cultivating partnerships to benefit that purpose,” said Tom Lally, Executive Director of Heartland Habitat. “Through our new partnership with el dorado inc, we will be able to take a step beyond providing decent, affordable homes by making the homes even more affordable to own.”
The future owner of the 1% for Habitat home will be required to undergo Heartland Habitat’s extensive homeowner process, including completing 300 hours of “sweat equity” volunteering with Heartland Habitat and 50 hours spent in homeowner education classes. The candidate will then be eligible for a zero interest, no profit mortgage loan. Mortgage payments received on the home will be reinvested in the Heartland Habitat housing program to help build more homes for families in need.
About Heartland Habitat for Humanity
Serving Wyandotte, Johnson and Leavenworth counties in Kansas and Clay and Platte counties in Missouri, Heartland Habitat’s mission is to build simple, decent homes and communities in partnership with God’s people in need while following biblical principles. For more information about Heartland Habitat or to sign-up to participate on a volunteer crew, visit www.heartlandhabitat.org or call 913-342-3047.
About el dorado inc
Based in Kansas City’s historical Crossroads District, el dorado inc is a multi-disciplinary architecture firm whose work resonates in five focused design studios: Commercial, Industrial, Civic/Institutional, Public Art and Residential. For more information, visit www.eldo.us.
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PRESS RELEASE
Contact: Tom Lally, Executive Director
Office: 913.342.3047 Cell: 913.832.5791
tom@heartlandhabitat.org
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 10, 2011
TELETHON TO RAISE FUNDS, AWARENESS FOR REBUILDING EFFORTS IN TORNADO-DAMAGED READING, KANSAS
(Kansas City, Kan.) – With the assistance of McCarthy Auto Group, Cumulus Media, Inc. and KCTV Channel 5, Heartland Habitat for Humanity and Emporia Area Habitat for Humanity are partnering to raise nearly $250,000 for rebuilding efforts in Reading, Kansas. The funds will be raised during a telethon on KCTV5 on Saturday, October 15 from 8-11 a.m. Proceeds will be used to assist Reading residents with rebuilding their homes and lives following a tornado that devastated the town last May.
"We're grateful for the McCarthy Auto Group's leadership, as well as the support of KCTV5 and Cumulus Media on this project,” said Tom Lally, Executive Director of Heartland Habitat for Humanity. “We are confident that this phenomenal partnership will greatly impact the community of Reading, Kansas and the lives of its residents."
On May 21, 2011 an EF-3 tornado ripped through Reading, leaving behind a path of destruction. The tornado caused approximately $2 million dollars in damage to dozens of homes, numerous businesses, the City Hall, a church and the local school. To date, no FEMA funds have been released to assist the town in rebuilding its infrastructure or to assist local residents with rebuilding their homes.
"When tragedy happens it is up to us - the community - to step in and help. It is our moral obligation,” said John McCarthy, CEO of McCarthy Auto Group.
In addition to the telethon, McCarthy Auto Group has donated a new 2012 Camaro Convertible to help raise funds for the Reading project.
Proceeds from the telethon and other fundraising efforts will be used to support a Neighborhood Revitalization Initiative (NRI) project. NRI strives to improve the quality of life in neighborhoods through local community-planning partnerships, by expanding housing services, and by coordinating programs such as home rehabilitation, weatherization and homeowner education. Emporia Area Habitat for Humanity will lead the efforts to rebuild an entire neighborhood in Reading. Heartland Habitat is one of 163 affiliates nationwide selected to participate in Habitat for Humanity’s NRI program, and is assisting Emporia Area Habitat for Humanity with funding this NRI project.
Future homeowners for the Habitat for Humanity homes have already been screened and selected by Emporia Area Habitat for Humanity.
“The wake of this tragedy has opened a door for Habitat to do what it does best: address housing issues and impact the lives of families in need,” said Lally.
To donate toward the effort or to enter to win the 2012 Camaro, please visit www.heartlandhabitat.org. To sign-up with a volunteer crew, visit www.emporiahabitat.org.
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 more than 350,000 houses worldwide, providing simple, decent and affordable shelter for more than 1.75 million people. For more information, or to donate or volunteer, visit www.habitat.org.
About McCarthy Auto Group
John McCarthy Auto Group is based in the Kansas City metropolitan area, with dealerships located in Olathe, Mission and Lawrence in Kansas, and Lee’s Summit, Independence and Warrensburg in Missouri. John McCarthy Auto Group dealerships have a wide selection of new and used cars, trucks and SUVs. The company is a leading auto dealer in their communities and committed to providing customers with quality service. For more information, visit www.mccarthyautogroup.com.
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PRESS RELEASE
Contact: Tom Lally, Executive Director
Office: 913.342.3047 Cell: 913.832.5791
tom@heartlandhabitat.org
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 28, 2011
ZURICH FINANCIAL AND FARMERS INSURANCE PARTNER WITH HEARTLAND HABITAT IN NORTHLAND REVITALIZATION PROJECT
(GLADSTONE, MO) – Residents in the Gladstone, Missouri area will soon reap the benefits of A Brush With Kindness, a program of Heartland Habitat for Humanity that offers painting, landscaping, weather stripping and minor exterior repair services for low-income homeowners in need.
Zurich Financial and Farmers Insurance have partnered with Heartland Habitat on the Northland revitalization project, planned for Saturday, October 8. Approximately 100 volunteers will gather at the Gladstone Community Center for a kick-off breakfast before beginning repairs and property clean-up on nine to 12 homes in neighborhoods throughout Gladstone.
“Heartland Habitat has long been involved in the Northland community through our efforts to build decent, affordable homes for families in need,” said Tom Lally, Executive Director. “We’re excited to further expand our reach North of the River through A Brush With Kindness and other neighborhood revitalization efforts.”
A Brush With Kindness is one of several components of Heartland Habitat’s Neighborhood Revitalization Initiative (NRI). Launched in 2009, NRI strives to improve the quality of life in neighborhoods through local community-planning partnerships and by expanding housing services. Other components of NRI include rehabilitation of homes, weatherization and homeowner education. Heartland Habitat is one of 163 Habitat for Humanity affiliates nationwide selected to participate in the NRI pilot project.
In addition to supplying volunteers for the Gladstone A Brush With Kindness project, both Zurich Financial and Farmers Insurance donated $15,000 for the effort, a total contribution of $30,000. The donation covers the cost of tools, supplies, landscaping materials and other project expenses.
“This project is a great demonstration of the power that can be generated when solid partnerships, innovative programs, volunteer mobilization and financial support are combined for the greater good of the community,” said Lally.
About Heartland Habitat for Humanity
Serving Wyandotte, Johnson and Leavenworth counties in Kansas and Clay and Platte counties in Missouri, Heartland Habitat’s mission is to build simple, decent homes and communities in partnership with God’s people in need while following biblical principles. For more information about Heartland Habitat or to sign-up to participate on a volunteer crew, visit www.heartlandhabitat.org or call 913-342-3047.
About Zurich Financial
Zurich Financial Services Group (Zurich) is a leading multi-line insurance provider with a global network of subsidiaries and offices in Europe, North America, Latin America, Asia-Pacific and the Middle East as well as other markets. It offers a wide range of general insurance and life insurance products and services for individuals, small businesses, mid-sized and large companies as well as multinational corporations. Zurich employs about 60,000 people serving customers in more than 170 countries. Further information about Zurich is available at www.zurich.com.
About Farmers Insurance
Farmers is a trade name and may refer to Farmers Group, Inc. or the Farmers Exchanges, as the case may be. Farmers Group, Inc., a management holding company, along with its subsidiaries, is wholly owned by the Zurich Financial Services Group. The Farmers Exchanges are three reciprocal insurers (Farmers Insurance Exchange, Fire Insurance Exchange and Truck Insurance Exchange), including their subsidiaries and affiliates, owned by their policyholders, and managed by Farmers Group, Inc. and its subsidiaries. For more information about Farmers, visit www.farmers.com.
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PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 12, 2011
HEARTLAND HABITAT FOR HUMANITY HELPS OLATHE FAMILY REALIZE HOMEOWNERSHIP DREAM
(OLATHE, KS) – The dream of homeownership is now a reality for one local family thanks to the work of Heartland Habitat for Humanity, its volunteers and local sponsors. Mina Foster of Olathe and her children, Amanda, 23, and Zachary, 14, will soon be the proud new owners of a Heartland Habitat for Humanity home. The home, located at 1016 E. Park in Olathe, KS, will be presented to Foster during a house blessing ceremony on Friday, September 16 at 9 a.m.
To qualify for a Heartland Habitat for Humanity home, Foster went through a comprehensive interview and assessment process, and was required to meet certain income guidelines. In addition, Foster contributed 300 hours of “sweat equity” and participated in 50 hours of homeowner classes. In exchange, she was able to purchase her home with a zero interest loan and no down payment.
“Heartland Habitat for Humanity has done more for our family than give us an opportunity for homeownership. Heartland Habitat has restored our sense of dignity,” said Foster.
Foster, a cancer survivor and single mother of special needs children, works full-time for a local non-profit organization and gives back to the community through her volunteer work with special needs children in the Olathe district schools.
This Heartland Habitat for Humanity project is the first home built through a new partnership between Farmers Insurance Group, Heartland Habitat and the Olathe School District’s Trades Program, which offers students an opportunity to gain construction knowledge and experience by working alongside adult volunteers and mentors from Farmers Insurance Group.
“We are grateful to Farmers Insurance and the Olathe School District for recognizing their unique opportunity to teach students the importance of community service and for giving them the tools to do so,” said Tom Lally, Executive Director.
Foster’s home was made possible thanks to financial sponsorship by Garmin International, Inc., Farmers Insurance, Zurich North America, Kiewit Power, Grace United Methodist Church, Grundfos Pump Corporation, and Huhtamaki Inc., with additional significant support from Olathe School District, Olathe School District Construction Trades Program, City of Olathe and Olathe Chamber of Commerce.
Heartland Habitat’s mission is to build simple, decent homes and communities in partnership with God’s people in need while following biblical principles. According to Lally, Heartland Habitat for Humanity has built or restored more than 225 homes throughout the Kansas City metropolitan area, including Wyandotte, Johnson and Leavenworth Counties in Kansas and Clay and Platte Counties in Missouri.
For more information about Heartland Habitat or to sign-up to participate on a volunteer crew, visit www.heartlandhabitat.org or call 913-342-3047.
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PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
TRIPLE THREAT RODEO TO BENEFIT HEARTLAND HABITAT FOR HUMANITY
Coleman Equipment to replace bulls and calves with backhoes and heavy equipment in unique rodeo competition
KANSAS CITY (August 8, 2011) –Coleman Equipment is hosting a Triple Threat Rodeo on Saturday, August 13 at 24000 West 43rd Street in Bonner Springs, Kansas (two miles south of I-70 on K-7). Registration will open at 7:30 a.m. The event will begin at 9:00 a.m.
Instead of roping calves or riding bulls, this rodeo involves operating a Case loader/backhoe, a wheel loader and a skid steer. It pits Kansas City’s most talented heavy equipment operators against each other in a series of three skill-testing events; it’s the ultimate test of man, mind and machine. There will also be demonstrations of Case equipment and activities for families, guests, and other spectators.
During July and August, Coleman Equipment is collecting donations for Heartland Habitat for Humanity and will be presenting those donations plus a donation from the dealership during the rodeo awards ceremony.
Local equipment operators participating in the rodeo event are eligible to earn up to $500 in cash prizes, plus the winner also earns a trip to for two to Las Vegas in 2012 to the Case North American Triple Threat Rodeo Series Finals, where they will compete for the grand prize of a new Case, Alpha Series TR 270 Compact Track Loader for their sponsoring company and a new Dodge RAM Truck for themselves. The Case TR270 is valued at $62,000. The Dodge RAM Truck is valued at $42,000. More than 4,500 operators are expected to compete in rodeos across North America, including close to 75 at this local event.
“We are truly excited to partner with Coleman Equipment, and appreciate the construction industry’s support of our mission,” said Heartland Habitat Executive Director Tom Lally. “The Backhoe Rodeo is a great event for our community, and the proceeds enable our affiliate to continue supporting Kansas City area families fulfill their dreams of homeownership.”
About Heartland Habitat for Humanity
Serving the majority of the Kansas City metropolitan area including Wyandotte, Johnson and Leavenworth counties in Kansas and Clay and Platte counties in Missouri, Heartland Habitat’s mission is to build simple, decent homes and communities in partnership with God’s people in need. Over 225 homes have been built or rehabbed in these five counties in the past twenty years. For more information about Heartland Habitat, to donate online or to sign-up to participate on a volunteer crew, visit www.heartlandhabitat.org or call 913-342-3047.
About Coleman Equipment
For more than 70 years Coleman Equipment has been serving the greater Kansas City area by selling, renting and servicing commercial equipment including Loader Backhoes, Skid Steer Loaders, Compact Track Loaders and Compact Excavators. Coleman Equipment is very proud to be a long- time Case Construction Equipment dealer, including becoming one of the largest Case Backhoe & Skid Steer dealers in North America. For more information, visit www.colemanequip.com.
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Media Contacts:
Chris Coleman
Coleman Equipment
913-422-3040 or chris@colemanequip.com
Kate Fields, Director of Resource Development
Heartland Habitat for Humanity
913-342-3047 or kate@heartlandhabitat.org
PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
SENIOR LIVING COMMUNITY PROJECT TO BENEFIT HEARTLAND HABITAT FOR HUMANITY
Covenant Retirement Communities donates two Lenexa homes for deconstruction and salvage efforts
KANSAS CITY (July 5, 2011) – Heartland Habitat for Humanity stands to benefit from a new senior living development project in Lenexa, thanks to the generosity of the facility's parent company, Covenant Retirement Communities (CRC). In order to make way for the new multifaceted senior living complex near 85th and Pflumm, two older homes must be deconstructed. CRC has invited Heartland Habitat to salvage building materials, fixtures, lighting and other usable materials from the homes before demolition. The salvaged materials will then be sold, with net proceeds benefiting Heartland Habitat and its building projects throughout Johnson, Leavenworth and Wyandotte Counties in Kansas, and Clay and Platte Counties in Missouri.
"CRC is one of the largest and most respected not-for-profit providers of senior housing in the country. Their willingness to partner with Heartland Habitat to ensure that the new facility in Lenexa is environmentally responsible and that all possible materials are salvaged speaks to that reputation," said Joel Erickson of Scenic Development, the local corporation assisting with the development and management of Covenant Place of Lenexa.
Heartland Habitat actively participates in deconstruction opportunities throughout the Kansas City metropolitan area. Most recently, Heartland Habitat participated in the deconstruction of two levels of Halls Crown Center to make way for Kansas City's new aquarium attraction. It also participated in salvage efforts at the Tomahawk Hills Golf Course in Shawnee during their recent renovation, and in the deconstruction and renovation efforts at Arrowhead Stadium in 2008.
"The success of Heartland Habitat is dependent upon the generosity of its donors, partners and volunteers," said Tom Lally, Executive Director of Heartland Habitat. "Deconstruction projects provide both materials and potential revenue to further Heartland Habitat's mission of building safe, decent and affordable homes for local families in need."
Materials salvaged from the two deconstructed Lenexa homes will be resold at Heartland Habitat ReStore in Wyandotte County (520 S. 55th Street, Kansas City, Kansas) or in Johnson County (9850 W. 87th Street, Overland Park, Kansas).
"We are committed to being a good steward of our resources," said Erickson. "As we partner with Heartland Habitat, we are giving back to the community we serve."
A rental community, Covenant Place of Lenexa is scheduled to open in 2013. It will offer a continuum of services, including residential independent living apartments, assisted living apartments, rehabilitation and skilled nursing. Covenant Place will provide a flexible and affordable senior housing option. Its nurcing center will be available for short- and long-term stays. On-site ammenities will include a bank branch, barber/beauty shop, fitness center, coffee bar, theatre and more. Starting in early 2012, Covenant Place will begin taking fully refundable deposits for future residents through its Founders Club program.
Six local churches will benefit from CRC's efforts in developing Covenant Place of Lenexa, two of which - Community Covenant Church and Hillcrest Covenant Church - are within five miles of the new community.
"We welcome Covenant Place to the area. Our shared vision of building strong communities and neighborhoods will hopefully create a lasting relationship between our two organizations for the betterment of Johnson County and its residents," said Lally.
Heartland Habitat is currently looking for large numbers of volunteers to assist with the deconstruction effort. Volunteer opportunities for both individuals and groups of volunteers are available July 12-16, each day from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Volunteers must be 18 years of age or older. For more information, please contact Vanessa Little at (913) 342-3047 or e-mail vanessa@heartlandhabitat.org.
About Heartland Habitat for Humanity
Serving Wyandotte, Johnson and Leavenworth counties in Kansas and Clay and Platte counties in Missouri, Heartland Habitat’s mission is to build simple, decent homes and communities in partnership with God’s people in need while following biblical principles. Over 225 homes have been built or rehabbed in these five counties in the past twenty years. For more information about Heartland Habitat, to donate online or to sign-up to participate on a volunteer crew, visit www.heartlandhabitat.org or call 913-342-3047.
About Covenant Retirement Communities
Covenant Retirement Communities is a not-for-profit ministry of the Evangelical Covenant Church, and is based in Skokie, Ill. With 15 retirement communities located throughout the United States, Covenant Retirement Communities provide a broad range of resources, services and programs to enhance individual and community wellness. For more information, visit www.covenantretirement.com or call (800) 255-8989.
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Media Contacts:
Joel Erickson
Scenic Development, LLC
913-599-5705 or joel.erickson@sdmrc.com
Kate Fields, Director of Resource Development
Heartland Habitat for Humanity
913-342-3047 or kate@heartlandhabitat.org
PRESS RELEASE
Media Contact:
Stacia Stelk, Executive Director Ripple Glass
Phone: 816.221.GLASS (4527)
Mobile: 816-804-2097 stacia@rippleglass.com
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
RIPPLE GLASS DONATES 66,000 POUNDS OF INSULATION TO LOCAL HABITAT FOR HUMANITY ORGANIZATIONS
Ripple Glass Hosts Media Event to Celebrate Donation, Showcase Facility
Kansas City, Mo., June 28, 2011—Thirty-six Kansas City families will stay cooler this summer and warmer next winter, thanks to your recycled glass.
Ripple Glass, Kansas City’s local glass recycling processor, has donated 66,000 pounds of Owens Corning’s PINK fiberglass insulation to three area Habitat for Humanity organizations. Owens Corning is a local Ripple Glass customer that converts Ripple’s output—processed recycled glass known as cullet—into fiberglass insulation, saving substantial amounts of energy while dramatically lowering air and water emissions.
Heartland Habitat for Humanity in Kansas City, Kan., Truman Heritage Habitat for Humanity in Independence, and Habitat for Humanity Kansas City in Kansas City, Mo., are recipients of the donation. The organizations will use the material in exterior walls and attics of approximately 36 homes to be built this year.
To celebrate the donation, Ripple Glass will host an event on June 28 at the Ripple processing facility in the Blue Valley Industrial District. Ripple Glass co-founder and principal Mike Utz will present the donation to representatives of the three Habitat for Humanity organizations. Prior to the event, media and guests will be given a tour of the Ripple Glass facility.
“Habitat for Humanity Kansas City is pleased to be in partnership with Ripple Glass and we thank them for their generous donation of insulation to our families,” said Yahna Gibson, executive director of Habitat for Humanity Kansas City. “Everyone knows that good insulation is key to energy efficient homes, and Habitat for Humanity Kansas City strives to build the best quality homes for homeowners. Thank you to Ripple Glass for their donations and partnership.”
“The Ripple model is a closed-loop system,” said Mike Utz. “The glass is collected, processed, and remanufactured locally, extending the life of landfills, creating jobs and saving enormous amounts of energy. Now, we’re pleased to help save even more energy by using the new material as insulation in Habitat homes.”
Utz continued: “Recycling just one glass container saves enough energy to light a 100-watt bulb for four hours. A six-pack of recycled beer bottles produces enough fiberglass insulation to fill a standard 8-foot wall cavity. Recycle your glass and encourage your friends and family to do the same. It’s great for the environment and the local economy, and it makes local homes more energy efficient.”
Since December 2009, Owens Corning has used over 14,000 tons of Ripple’s cullet in its manufacturing operations—equivalent to nearly 100 million glass containers.
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About Ripple Glass Ripple Glass was formed in 2009 by three employees of Boulevard Brewing Company to address the lack of glass recycling in Kansas City and stem the 150-million pound tide of recyclable glass ending up in area landfills each year. Partners include Boulevard Brewing, DST Systems, and UMB Bank. Ripple constructed a state-of-the-art processing plant and has now placed more than 90 dedicated glass recycling containers throughout the metro area.
MEDIA ALERT
Contact: Kate Fields, Director of Resource Development
Office: 913-342-3047 Cell: 913-238-5124
kate@heartlandhabitat.org
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
YOUNG ADULTS BIKE TO KANSAS CITY AREA TO BUILD WITH HEARTLAND HABITAT FOR HUMANITY
WHO: Bike & Build, a group of young adults that bicycles across America in support of affordable housing, will stop in Kansas City on Saturday, June 25 to partner with Heartland Habitat for Humanity and its efforts to provide a safe, decent home for a local family in need. Bike & Build volunteers will be on-site at Heartland Habitat's construction project at 805 Troup in Kansas City, Kansas from 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
WHAT: For the last eight summer seasons, volunteers with Bike & Build have provided grants and volunteer labor for housing construction projects across the country. Bike & Build participants bike from east to west coast during the summer, averaging approximately 70 miles per day. They stop along their cross-country route to partner and volunteer with housing organizations like Heartland Habitat for Humanity. Approximately 33 cyclists will stop in Kansas City to volunteer with Heartland Habitat. While on Heartland Habitat's construction site, Bike and Build volunteers will be performing a variety of building tasks, ranging from erecting roof trusses to laying shingles.
WHEN:
Saturday, June 25, 2011
9 a.m.-4 p.m.
Photo Opportunities Available.
WHERE: 805 Troup, Kansas City, Kansas 66101
WHY: Heartland Habitat for Humanity is committed to providing safe, decent, affordable housing for local families in need. Over 225 houses have been built or rehabbed by Heartland Habitat in Wyandotte, Johnson and Leavenworth Counties in Kansas and Clay and Platte Counties in Missouri within the last 20 years. The partnership between Bike & Build's mission and Heartland Habitat's work in the Kansas City area was a natural fit.
"We're incredibly honored and excited to be a part of Bike & Build's route this summer," said Tom Lally, Executive Director of Heartland Habitat. "The commitment of these young people to impact housing and poverty issues - both locally and nationally - is inspiring."
OTHER: For more information about Bike & Build, visit www.bikeandbuild.org. For more information about Heartland Habitat for Humanity, visit www.heartlandhabitat.org.
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NEWS RELEASE
Contact: Kate Fields, Director of Resource Development
Office: 913-342-3047 Cell: 913-238-5124
kate@heartlandhabitat.org
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
EVERY DAY IS EARTH DAY AT HEARTLAND HABITAT FOR HUMANITY
New Heartland Habitat ReStore in Johnson County makes recycling and repurposing convenient
(April 18, 2011 - KANSAS CITY, KANSAS) - Heartland Habitat for Humanity is expanding its efforts to care for low-income families, their communities and the environment by expanding its ReStore retail operation into Johnson County. A second location opened with much excitement earlier this month at 9850 W. 87th Street in Overland Park. ReStore, which offers quality new and used building materials, furniture and appliances at 20-80% off retail, is also located at 520 S. 55th Street in Kansas City, Kansas. All net proceeds support Heartland Habitat's efforts to build homes for local families in need.
With the grand opening of Heartland Habitat's ReStore in Johnson County, residents have a new way to celebrate Earth Day by either donating their usable building materials, furniture, working appliances, fixtures and other items for resale, or by shopping the wares at the new 15,000-square-foot store. In addition to partially funding the work of Heartland Habitat, it is projected that the organization's two ReStore locations will generate over $60,000 in local and state sales tax, and salvage over 2,000 tons of usable, functional materials from landfills annually.
"We are so excited to reach out to the Johnson County community and expand our presence there," said Tom Lally, Executive Director of Heartland Habitat. "We firmly believe that our new ReStore location will benefit residents looking for affordable building materials and build up the local economy by generating additional sales tax income, while offering the community additional opportunities to donate items and volunteer in support of Heartland Habitat's mission."
Heartland Habitat ReStore in Johnson County was made possible through a $100,000 grant from the Humana Communities Benefit program. The financial investment of Humana, along with the support of several local Chambers of Commerce and elected officials, make the new ReStore location a community-wide effort.
"It is truly gratifying to witness how Heartland Habitat has transformed with the funding from Humana, and how our grant will continue to pay dividends in the years to come," said Jeremy Gaskill, President of Humana Kansas and Missouri. "The organization has already made an impact with ReStore, and it's creating a self-supporting source of funding for future Habitat homes."
Heartland Habitat ReStore is the perfect resource for environmentally-conscious and civically-minded individuals interested in home remodeling and restoration projects. Furthermore, recycling and repurposing building materials not only helps save homeowners money, it also inspires Heartland Habitat volunteers to increase their involvement in a great cause.
Volunteer Steve Alley's voice filled with pride as he recalled one of his favorite memories from his work with Heartland Habitat for Humanity. He described how he felt helping a customer sort through the donated building materials at Heartland Habitat ReStore, where she found everything she needed to remodel her bathroom.
"It was so rewarding to see all these perfectly good items that would have ended up in a local landfill be repurposed," said Alley. "In addition to salvaging the items, the proceeds were going to help families get out of bad living conditions and into safe, comfortable homes."
Heartland Habitat ReStore in Johnson County is also the headquarters for the Cars for Homes program, which turns junk cars, trucks, boats, motorcycles and RVs into decent, affordable housing by reclaiming the iron, steel and other salvageable materials and generating income which is then reinvested in Heartland Habitat's efforts to eliminate poverty housing and homelessness in Wyandotte, Leavenworth and Johnson Counties in Kansas, and Clay and Platte Counties in Missouri.
"They are positively impacting our environment as well as supplying shelter - a basic human need - to local families," said Gaskill.
For more information on items accepted by ReStore, guidelines for the condition of donations, drop off locations or to schedule a donation pick-up, visit www.heartlandhabitat.org/restore or call (913) 648-6001.
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MEDIA ADVISORY
Contact: Kate Fields, Director of Resource Development
Office: 913-342-3047 Cell: 913-238-5124
kate@heartlandhabitat.org
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 31, 2011
BUSINESS AND GOVERNMENT LEADERS DEMONSTRATE SUPPORT FOR NEW HEARTLAND HABITAT RESTORE LOCATION IN JOHNSON COUNTY
WHO: Local leaders, including representatives from the Overland Park Chamber of Commerce, Olathe Chamber of Commerce, Shawnee Chamber of Commerce and Leawood Chamber of Commerce will unite in a show of support for the grand opening of Heartland Habitat for Humanity's newest ReStore location, located at 87th Street and Farley in Overland Park.
WHAT: Thanks to the generosity of a Humana Kansas City Benefits grant, Heartland Habitat for Humanity has expanded its ReStore operation with a new location in Johnson County. ReStore offers quality new and used building materials, furniture, fixtures and appliances at 20-80% off retail, with all net proceeds supporting the efforts of Heartland Habitat to build homes for individuals and families in need. The 15,000-square-foot location provides the Johnson County community with access to materials for building, remodeling and redecorating projects while salvaging over 2,000 tons of usable, functional materials from local landfills annually.
WHEN:
Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
Friday, April 8, 2011
8:30 a.m.
Photo Opportunities Available.
Family Carnival and Grand Opening Celebration
Saturday, April 9, 2011
10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Photo Opportunities Available.
WHERE: Heartland Habitat ReStore in Johnson County, 9850 W. 87th Street, Overland Park, KS 66212
WHY: "We are so excited to reach out to the Johnson County community and expand our presence there," said Tom Lally, Executive Director of Heartland Habitat. "We firmly believe that our new ReStore location will benefit residents looking for affordable building materials and build up the local economy by generating additional sales tax income, while offering the community additional opportunities to donate items and volunteer in support of Heartland Habitat's mission."
Heartland Habitat's Johnson County ReStore location, combined with its second location at 55th Street and Kansas Avenue in Wyandotte County, is expected to generate nearly $60,000 in state and local sales tax.
In addition to the ribbon cutting ceremony on Friday, April 8, Heartland Habitat ReStore will continue the grand opening festivities with a family festival atmosphere from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. on Saturday, April 9. The event on April 9 will include a carnival, food and drinks, giveaways, special sales all day, free child identification kits from Farmer's Insurance, and much more.
OTHER: Heartland Habitat ReStore supports Heartland Habitat for Humanity's mission is to build simple, decent homes and communities in Wyandotte, Leavenworth and Johnson Counties in Kansas, and Clay and Platte Counties in Missouri, in partnership with God's people in need. ReStore offers quality new and used building materials, furniture and appliances at greatly reduced prices, with all net proceeds supporting Heartland Habitat. For more information on donating, shopping or volunteering at Heartland Habitat ReStore, visit www.heartlandhabitat.org/restore.
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NEWS RELEASE
PERSONAL AND BUSINESS COACHES IN KANSAS CITY AREA CELEBRATE INTERNATIONAL COACHING WEEK, FEBRUARY 7-13, 2011
WHAT: In celebration of International Coaching Week, February 7–13, 2011, the members of the Kansas City Chapter of the International Coach Federation (ICF) is pleased to announce that Heartland Habitat for Humanity has been awarded the 2011 Non-Profit Coaching Service Grant.
Tom Lally, Executive Director at Heartland Habitat for Humanity, expressed his thanks at the announcement, “Heartland Habitat for Humanity is honored to be the 2011 recipient of the Heartland Coaches Association’s Non-Profit Leadership Coaching Service Grant. This wonderful opportunity to engage professional coaches for our leadership team comes at a perfect time for our organization as we embark on rolling out exciting new programs, including expanding our ReStore locations as well as implementing new services to significantly increase the number of families receiving affordable housing services. This partnership will provide a solid foundation for our non-profit organization to position itself for future growth. We are so thankful to the Heartland Coaches Association for selecting Heartland Habitat and providing these services that we might not otherwise had been able to access.” Coaching is partnering with clients in a thought-provoking and creative process that inspires them to maximize their personal and professional potential. Coaches work with clients in many areas, including business, career, finance, health and relationships.
WHEN: Six coaches from Heartland Coaches Association, Kansas City, will volunteer their coaching services to the leaders team of Heartland Habitat for Humanity during the months of March, April and May.
WHO: Janna Rust, Heartland Coaches Association President said, “This well-deserving non-profit organization was selected after carefully reviewing a multitude of applications. HCA values the positive impact our local non-profits make in the community and this coaching service grant is our way to offer appreciation and a lasting contribution to their mission.”
Heartland Coaches Association of Kansas City: 75 members including Janna Rust, President; Caroline Smith, Vice President & President Elect; Donna King, Secretary; Karen Hendrix, Treasurer; Terry Alleman, Program Chair; Tom Evans, Membership Chair;Todd Davisson, Public Relations Chair; Kim Specker, ICF Liaison and Dean Long, Past President.
The ICF is the leading global organization for coaches, with over 16,000 members in more than 90 countries, dedicated to advancing the coaching profession by setting high ethical standards, providing independent certification, and building a worldwide network of credentialed coaches. The ICF is the only organization that awards a global credential which is currently held by over 5,700 coaches worldwide. For more information on how to become or find an ICF Credentialed coach, please visit the ICF Web site at www.coachfederation.org.
WHY: During International Coaching Week, members of the Kansas City Chapter of ICF will celebrate coaching and the ICF’s 15th anniversary, by educating the public on the benefits of the coaching process and illustrating the value coaching can bring to peoples’ lives. Throughout the week, coaches and their clients will acknowledge the results made through the coaching process and share their progress with others interested in learning more about coaching.
HOW: If you would like more information on the ICF Kansas City Chapter or our Non-Profit Coaching Grant please visit www.heartlandcoaches.org or contact chapter President, Janna Rust at 913-219-7844.
If you are a member of the media and would like to schedule interviews with Service Grant Committee or HCA coaches, or receive more information on the ICF Heartland Coaches Association of Kansas City, please contact Todd Davisson at 816-506-3915, or visit www.heartlandcoaches.org.
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CONTACT: Heartland Coaches Association of Kansas City, Janna Rust, President, 913-219-7844
NEWS RELEASE
KANSAS CITY AREA PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZERS CELEBRATE NATIONAL GET ORGANIZED MONTH BY VOLUNTEERING WITH HEARTLAND HABITAT
KANSAS CITY (January 25, 2011) – A team of Kansas City area professional organizers united to help Heartland Habitat for Humanity get organized during Get Organized (GO) Month. This is the seventh year for GO Month, sponsored by the National Association of Professional Organizers (NAPO), which is dedicated to raising awareness of the benefits of getting organized and of hiring a professional organizer to help with the task.
On Friday, January 18 and Saturday, January 19, Heartland Habitat benefited from the experience and talent of seven local professional organizers who volunteered to help organize Heartland Habitat's administrative offices and make the best use of its space. The volunteers assisted in sorting, storage solutions and strategies for reducing, recycling and reusing materials that were cluttering the office. As a result, Heartland Habitat's office space is now more visitor-friendly and much more functional.
"Organized office space immensely impacts the productivity of an organization," said Tracy Hoth, owner of Simply Squared Away. "Heartland Habitat for Humanity's organized offices equals higher productivity, [which] equals more houses built and lives changed."
"We tend to get so focused on working hard to build homes and communities for people in need that we can overlook ways to help us work better, like keeping a clean and organized work space," said Tom Lally, Executive Director of Heartland Habitat for Humanity. "That's why volunteers, like those from NAPO, are so important to the work we do. We accomplish so much more together than on our own."
Results for a recent NAPO survey found that 96 percent of respondents felt that they could save time each day if they were more organized, and 71 percent indicated their quality of life would improve with more organization. Organization, the survey concluded, helps save time and money, increases productivity, enhances quality of life and reduces stress. For more information about NAPO or to find a professional organizer, visit www.napo.net.
About Heartland Habitat for Humanity
Serving Wyandotte, Johnson and Leavenworth counties in Kansas and Clay and Platte counties in Missouri, Heartland Habitat’s mission is to build simple, decent homes and communities in partnership with God’s people in need while following biblical principles. Over 215 homes have been built in these five counties in the past twenty years. For more information about Heartland Habitat, to donate online or to sign-up to participate on a volunteer crew, visit www.heartlandhabitat.org or call 913-342-3047.
About National Association of Professional Organizers
The premier national association dedicated to the field of organizing, the National Association of Professional Organizers (NAPO) is The Organizing Authority®. Since forming in 1985 as a nonprofit professional educational association, NAPO has grown to nearly 4,200 members. NAPO is dedicated to serving its members through education, networking, industry resources and promoting the profession to the public. For more information about NAPO or to find a professional organizer in your area, visit www.napo.net or call NAPO at 856-380-6828.
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Media Contacts:
Linda Henderson
Concepts in Organizing
816-820-8292 or linda@conceptsinorganizing.com
Tom Lally, Executive Director
Heartland Habitat for Humanity
913-342-3047 or tom@heartlandhabitat.org
NEWS RELEASE
HEARTLAND HABITAT SELECTED TO RECEIVE GREEN BUILDING GRANT FROM THE HOME DEPOT FOUNDATION AND HABITAT FOR HUMANITY INTERNATIONAL
(KANSAS CITY, KS) – (September 14, 2010) – Heartland Habitat for Humanity is among 136 recipients selected to participate in a national green building initiative between Habitat for Humanity International and The Home Depot Foundation. Launched in 2009, the Partners in Sustainable Building Program is a $30 million, five-year program aimed at helping Habitat affiliates in the United States incorporate sustainable building practices in 5,000 Habitat homes.
Each Habitat organization receiving a Partners in Sustainable Building grant will receive $3,000 for each home built to a standard equivalent to Energy Star and up to $5,000 for each home built to a higher green standard. The selected Habitat affiliates are expected to build 2,400 homes in 2010-2011.
“We are extremely grateful to Habitat for Humanity International and The Home Depot Foundation for selecting Heartland Habitat as a Partners in Sustainable Building grant recipient,” said Executive Director Tom Lally. “We will use the funding on the homes we are building with low-income families in need.”
Since the program was established, nearly 1,500 homes have been certified nationwide. By incorporating practices such as creating a tight building envelope and using efficient, durable materials in the construction process, many of these homes achieved green building certification with little additional cost.
“We believe that healthy homes are the building blocks for thriving, affordable and environmentally sound communities,” said Kelly Caffarelli, president of The Home Depot Foundation. “Through our partnership with Habitat for Humanity, we are focused on bringing the practical financial and health benefits of green building and maintenance to families of modest incomes. By showing that green building and efficient maintenance of a home can truly keep more money in a family’s wallet, we also hope this effort has a ripple effect on all homeowners nationwide. ”
Partners in Sustainable Building is the first partnership between The Home Depot Foundation and Habitat for Humanity International at the national level in the United States. For more information about the PSB program, visit www.homedepotfoundation.org.
About The Home Depot Foundation
Created in 2002, The Home Depot Foundation supports nonprofit organizations dedicated to creating and preserving healthy, affordable homes as the cornerstone of sustainable communities. The Foundation’s goal is for all families to have the opportunity to live in healthy, efficient homes they can afford over the long-term; to have access to safe, vibrant parks and greenspaces; and to receive the economic, social and environmental benefits of living in a sustainable community. Since its formation, The Home Depot Foundation has granted $190 million to nonprofit organizations and supported the development of more than 95,000 homes, planted more than 1.2 million trees, and built or refurbished more than 1875 playgrounds, parks and greenspaces. For more information, visit www.homedepotfoundation.org and follow us on Twitter homedepotfdn.
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 more than 350,000 houses worldwide, providing simple, decent and affordable shelter for more than 1.75 million people. For more information, visit www.habitat.org.
About Heartland Habitat for Humanity
Serving Wyandotte, Johnson and Leavenworth counties in Kansas and Clay and Platte counties in Missouri, Heartland Habitat’s mission is to build simple, decent homes and communities in partnership with God’s people in need while following biblical principles. Over 215 houses have been built in these five counties in the past twenty years. For more information, visit www.heartlandhabitat.org.
# # #
For more information, contact:
Kate Fields, Director of Resource Development
Heartland Habitat for Humanity
(913) 342-3047, kate@heartlandhabitat.org
Nakia Fowler
Habitat for Humanity International
404-962-3445, nfowler@habitat.org
Paula Drake, 770-384-3439, paula_drake@homedepot.com
Catherine Woodling, 770-384-2304, catherine_woodling@homedepot.com
The Home Depot Foundation
Lucy McDonald
MS&L for The Home Depot Foundation
404-870-6853, lucy.mcdonald@mslworldwide.com
NEWS RELEASE
MEDIA CONTACT
Kate Fields, Director of Resource Development
913-342-3047 or kate@heartlandhabitat.org
FARMERS INSURANCE AND HEARTLAND HABITAT FOR HUMANITY PARTNER TO PROVIDE STUDENTS SKILLS, COMMUNITY AWARENESS
(OLATHE, KS) – (August 7, 2010) – An innovative new partnership between Farmers Insurance Group of Companies®, Heartland Habitat for Humanity and the Olathe School District's Construction Trades Department will offer students enhanced educational opportunities and hands-on experience during the 2010-2011 school year. The students will be engaged in the building of a home for an Olathe family in need.
The construction project will kick-off in August and is designed to help students put their classroom learning to use while exploring career possibilities. Students from the District’s Construction Trades Department will come from 17 schools in the Olathe School District and other surrounding areas. They will spend time in the classroom and on the Heartland Habitat construction site each school day. In the process, they will gain construction knowledge and experience, and will have the opportunity to work alongside adult volunteers from Farmers Insurance Kansas City and Olathe offices. The Farmers Kansas team will serve as mentors and role models.
It is anticipated that the Olathe home will take three to four months to complete. "Farmers Insurance helps families rebuild their lives every day," said Nina Von Behren, Office Services Manager for Farmers Insurance Group's Kansas City HelpPoint® Claims Facilities. "We are thrilled to work with Heartland Habitat, and in the process introduce Olathe students to career opportunities within the trade and insurance fields."
According to Von Behren, in addition to volunteering with the students on-site at the Heartland Habitat build, Farmers Insurance employees will be actively engaged with the students in broader ways, including hosting "lunch and learn" events, providing tours of the HelpPoint® Facilities, offering job shadowing days and assisting with the coordination of training.
“It is a great example of community partnership and a model for service learning,” said Tom Lally, Executive Director of Heartland Habitat for Humanity. “The students will learn marketable skills and interact with adult role models and mentors while helping to build an affordable home for a wonderful family.”
According to the preliminary budget report from the Olathe School District's July Board of Education meeting, the District's budget was cut by $7.6 million for the 2010-2011 school year. This cut in funding comes at a time when enrollment is increasing and the District's needs are growing. "The support of companies like Farmers Insurance through community-based learning opportunities like Heartland Habitat home construction builds, supports the District's effort to maintain its Construction Trades Department while enhancing the students' career exploration and hands-on learning," noted Lally.
"We're not just building a house, we're affecting these kids' lives," said Von Behren.
Mina Foster, a single mother of two special needs children is a former employee of the Olathe School District and has been selected as the future owner of the Heartland Habitat home. She will undergo Heartland Habitat for Humanity’s extensive homeowner process, including completing 300 hours of “sweat equity” volunteering with Heartland Habitat and 50 hours spent in homeowner education classes. She will then be eligible for a zero interest, no profit loan. Mortgage payments received on the home will be invested back into the program to help build more homes for families in need.
"Heartland Habitat is so pleased to be the bridge that brought Farmers Insurance and the Olathe School District together," said Lally. "Because of the generosity of Farmers and the willingness of the District to explore new learning opportunities, we are collectively able to strengthen and support the Olathe community."
Approximately half of the funds for the Olathe build are already in place through the support of Farmers Insurance and other corporate partners, including Garmin and the Johnson County Bar Association. However, more donations and volunteers are needed. For more information about volunteer or funding opportunities, contact Heartland Habitat for Humanity at (913) 342-3047.
About Farmers Insurance
Farmers is a trade name and may refer to Farmers Group, Inc. or the Farmers Exchanges, as the case may be. Farmers Group, Inc., a management holding company, along with its subsidiaries, is wholly owned by the Zurich Financial Services Group. The Farmers Exchanges are three reciprocal insurers (Farmers Insurance Exchange, Fire Insurance Exchange and Truck Insurance Exchange), including their subsidiaries and affiliates, owned by their policyholders, and managed by Farmers Group, Inc. and its subsidiaries. For more information about Farmers, visit www.farmers.com.
About Heartland Habitat for Humanity
Serving Wyandotte, Johnson and Leavenworth counties in Kansas and Clay and Platte counties in Missouri, Heartland Habitat’s mission is to build simple, decent homes and communities in partnership with God’s people in need while following biblical principles. Over 215 homes have been built in these five counties in the past twenty years. For more information about Heartland Habitat, to donate online or to sign-up to participate on a volunteer crew, visit www.heartlandhabitat.org or call 913-342-3047.
# # #
NEWS RELEASE
MEDIA CONTACT
Kate Fields, Director of Resource Development
913-342-3047 or kate@heartlandhabitat.org
HEARTLAND HABITAT FOR HUMANITY HELPS OLATHE FAMILY CELEBRATE FIRST CHRISTMAS IN NEW HOME
OLATHE, KS (December 21, 2009) – The holidays will be particularly bright for one local family thanks to the work of Heartland Habitat for Humanity, its volunteers and local sponsors. Meghan Speak of Olathe and her daughters, Gracee, 12, and Miranda, 14, are the proud new owners of a Heartland Habitat for Humanity home. The home was completed this fall and presented to Speak during a house blessing ceremony on Saturday, December 19 – just in time for Christmas.
“Everyone looks forward to the holidays, but this year is particularly special for me and my family. Thanks to Heartland Habitat for Humanity, this year we will spend our first Christmas in our very own home,” said Speak.
To qualify for a Heartland Habitat for Humanity home, Speak went through a comprehensive interview and assessment process, and was required to meet certain income guidelines. In addition, Speak contributed 300 hours of “sweat equity” and participated in 50 hours of homeowner classes. In exchange, she was able to purchase her home with a zero interest loan and no down payment.
Speak’s home was made possible thanks to a major investment by Johnson County-based IDEX and its founder Bob White, with additional financial and volunteer support provided by the Johnson County Bar Association, Farmers Insurance, Olathe Chamber of Commerce and Olathe Jaycees. With this support, Heartland Habitat for Humanity purchased a blighted property at 130 S. Emma in Olathe, tore down the existing dilapidated house, and completed the construction of a new three-bedroom 1,300-square-foot home.
“We are so grateful to the donors and volunteers who make it possible for Heartland Habitat to build homes for deserving families in need,” said Tom Lally, Executive Director. According to Lally, Heartland Habitat for Humanity has built more than 215 homes in Wyandotte, Johnson and Leavenworth Counties in Kansas and Clay and Platte Counties in Missouri.
The completion of the home in Olathe is the first Heartland Habitat home in Johnson County in nearly 10 years, and represents an increased effort by the organization to reach populations that are traditionally overlooked.
“We’re committed to the Johnson County community, and in particular lower income families that are currently living in substandard housing,” said Lally.
Plans are underway for another Olathe construction project in 2010, in partnership with the Olathe School District’s Trades Department. This partnership will offer students the opportunity to learn valuable construction skills while benefiting the community. In addition, Heartland Habitat for Humanity has received funding from Humana Kansas City Benefits to open a Johnson County extension of ReStore, a retail outlet that accepts donations of usable building materials, fixtures, furniture and working appliances, and then resells them at discounted prices with all net proceeds benefiting the building of more homes.
“We’re eliminating blight, redeveloping community, encouraging environmental stewardship and building homes that contribute to Johnson County’s tax base,” said Lally. “Johnson County’s support has been and will continue to be crucial to our neighborhood building efforts.”
Serving Wyandotte, Johnson and Leavenworth counties in Kansas and Clay and Platte counties in Missouri, Heartland Habitat’s mission is to build simple, decent homes and communities in partnership with God’s people in need while following biblical principles. For more information about Heartland Habitat or to sign-up to participate on a volunteer crew, visit www.heartlandhabitat.org or call 913-342-3047.
# # #
NEWS RELEASE
MEDIA CONTACT
Vanessa Little, Volunteer Coordinator
913-342-3047 or vanessa@heartlandhabitat.org
HEARTLAND HABITAT FOR HUMANITY KICKS OFF NEW PROJECT IN LEAVENWORTH
LEAVENWORTH, KS (March 10, 2010) - Heartland Habitat for Humanity will break ground on a new construction project in Leavenworth this spring in an effort to build a simple, decent and affordable home for Kelly Medsker, 32, a Leavenworth resident living with cerebral palsy. This project is one of nine homes Heartland Habitat plans on building in 2010 in Wyandotte, Johnson and Leavenworth counties in Kansas and Clay and Platte counties in Missouri.
The new home will be located at 1524 Shawnee Street in Leavenworth, and will primarily be built by Heartland Habitat volunteers. A kick-off reception was held on March 11, 2010 at the Heritage Center in Leavenworth for sponsors, donors, volunteers and those interested in Heartland Habitat's work in the Leavenworth community.
"We are very excited about building in the Leavenworth community this year," said Tom Lally, Executive Director. "This event will help build momentum, increase awareness and create excitement around our efforts to provide simple, decent homes for people in need."
To qualify for a Heartland Habitat for Humanity home, Medsker went through a comprehensive interview and assessment process, and had to meet certain income guidelines. In addition, she will contribute 350 hours of “sweat equity,” including 50 hours of homeowner classes. In exchange, she will purchase her home with a zero interest loan and no down payment.
Medsker's Heartland Habitat home will consist of three-bedrooms, two baths, a living room, dining room, one-car garage and new electrical appliances. It will also include special accommodations, such as a ramp, to improve her ability to move freely in her home. The home will be a significant improvement to her current living condition, which includes a small apartment with regular water leaks in the kitchen and bathroom. In addition, her apartment has been broken into twice in the last nine years.
"Heartland Habitat will improve Ms. Medsker's quality of life by providing a safe, affordable home where she can have more independence and not worry about constant home repairs," said Lally.
According to Lally, the average Heartland Habitat home requires approximately 5,000 hours of volunteer time to complete. Primary funding for the home was provided by the Sunderland Foundation, Geiger Concrete, St. Vincent DePaul Society, First United Methodist Church, Sisters of Charity, and Lansing Correctional, with additional support from individual donors.
"We're so grateful for the support of our donors, volunteers and sponsors, and hope the greater Leavenworth community will also get involved with our efforts," said Lally.
For more information about volunteer opportunities with Heartland Habitat for Humanity, call Vanessa Little at 913-342-3047 or e-mail vanessa@heartlandhabitat.org.
# # #
NEWS RELEASE
MEDIA CONTACT
Kate Fields, Director of Resource Development
913-342-3047 or kate@heartlandhabitat.org
HEARTLAND HABITAT FOR HUMANITY HELPS OLATHE FAMILY CELEBRATE FIRST CHRISTMAS IN NEW HOME
OLATHE, KS (December 21, 2009) – The holidays will be particularly bright for one local family thanks to the work of Heartland Habitat for Humanity, its volunteers and local sponsors. Meghan Speak of Olathe and her daughters, Gracee, 12, and Miranda, 14, are the proud new owners of a Heartland Habitat for Humanity home. The home was completed this fall and presented to Speak during a house blessing ceremony on Saturday, December 19 – just in time for Christmas.
“Everyone looks forward to the holidays, but this year is particularly special for me and my family. Thanks to Heartland Habitat for Humanity, this year we will spend our first Christmas in our very own home,” said Speak.
To qualify for a Heartland Habitat for Humanity home, Speak went through a comprehensive interview and assessment process, and was required to meet certain income guidelines. In addition, Speak contributed 300 hours of “sweat equity” and participated in 50 hours of homeowner classes. In exchange, she was able to purchase her home with a zero interest loan and no down payment.
Speak’s home was made possible thanks to a major investment by Johnson County-based IDEX and its founder Bob White, with additional financial and volunteer support provided by the Johnson County Bar Association, Farmers Insurance, Olathe Chamber of Commerce and Olathe Jaycees. With this support, Heartland Habitat for Humanity purchased a blighted property at 130 S. Emma in Olathe, tore down the existing dilapidated house, and completed the construction of a new three-bedroom 1,300-square-foot home.
“We are so grateful to the donors and volunteers who make it possible for Heartland Habitat to build homes for deserving families in need,” said Tom Lally, Executive Director. According to Lally, Heartland Habitat for Humanity has built more than 215 homes in Wyandotte, Johnson and Leavenworth Counties in Kansas and Clay and Platte Counties in Missouri.
The completion of the home in Olathe is the first Heartland Habitat home in Johnson County in nearly 10 years, and represents an increased effort by the organization to reach populations that are traditionally overlooked.
“We’re committed to the Johnson County community, and in particular lower income families that are currently living in substandard housing,” said Lally.
Plans are underway for another Olathe construction project in 2010, in partnership with the Olathe School District’s Trades Department. This partnership will offer students the opportunity to learn valuable construction skills while benefiting the community. In addition, Heartland Habitat for Humanity has received funding from Humana Kansas City Benefits to open a Johnson County extension of ReStore, a retail outlet that accepts donations of usable building materials, fixtures, furniture and working appliances, and then resells them at discounted prices with all net proceeds benefiting the building of more homes.
“We’re eliminating blight, redeveloping community, encouraging environmental stewardship and building homes that contribute to Johnson County’s tax base,” said Lally. “Johnson County’s support has been and will continue to be crucial to our neighborhood building efforts.”
Serving Wyandotte, Johnson and Leavenworth counties in Kansas and Clay and Platte counties in Missouri, Heartland Habitat’s mission is to build simple, decent homes and communities in partnership with God’s people in need while following biblical principles. For more information about Heartland Habitat or to sign-up to participate on a volunteer crew, visit www.heartlandhabitat.org or call 913-342-3047.
# # #
NEWS RELEASE
MEDIA CONTACT
Kate Fields, Director of Resource Development
913-342-3047 or kate@heartlandhabitat.org
HUMANA GIVES $120K TO LOCAL NONPROFITS
Heartland Habitat for Humanity receives $100,000, and Phoenix Family Corp. and Synergy Services, Inc. benefit from $10,000 apiece
KANSAS CITY (October 26, 2009) – This month, Heartland Habitat for Humanity was awarded $100,000 from health insurer Humana to support the Johnson County ReStore Drop-off Center. ReStore is a retail outlet where quality new and used housing and construction items are sold to the public at a substantial savings. The net income from ReStore is returned to Heartland Habitat for Humanity to build future homes.
“We're so very appreciative of Humana's support of our mission and look forward to the tremendous impact their investment will have on Heartland Habitat and ReStore,” said Tom Lally, Executive Director of Heartland Habitat for Humanity. “Building the human spirit through homeownership is what we do. The funding from the Humana will allow us to further our mission of building simple, decent affordable housing as well as assist the Kansas City community in being good stewards to our environment.”
Humana’s grant program – aptly named Kansas City Benefits – awards $100,000 to one local nonprofit working to improve the community’s health. Two other organizations receive $10,000 grants. The recipients of the $10,000 awards were Phoenix Family Housing Corporation and Synergy Services, Inc.
Dozens of nonprofits applied for the Kansas City Benefits grants. Humana employees and community leaders helped narrow the field to the three finalists.
“Kansas City Benefits is extremely competitive, and we select three finalists who can make a substantial difference in the community,” said George Wheeler, president of Humana of Kansas and Missouri. “Heartland Habitat, Phoenix Family Housing and Synergy Services are great investments, and they are only a few examples of Humana’s dedication to this area and its health.”
About Heartland Habitat for Humanity
Heartland Habitat for Humanity’s mission is to build simple, decent homes and communities in partnership with God’s people in need, while following biblical principles. Established in 2006, Heartland Habitat was formed by the merger of Kaw Valley Habitat for Humanity and Northland Habitat for Humanity. Since 1987, the two Habitat affiliates have built over 215 homes in Wyandotte, Leavenworth and Johnson counties in Kansas and Clay and Platte counties in Missouri.
Heartland Habitat for Humanity builds homes using volunteer labor, donated funds and donated materials. The homes are sold to qualifying partner families with no profit and affordable 0% interest loans. Mortgage payments are invested back into the program, helping to build additional new homes across Heartland’s target areas. Homeowners are required to invest 350 hours of sweat equity in the construction of their homes, partnering with other families and completing homeowner education classes. Approximately 70% of Heartland Habitat’s construction is completed by volunteers. Much of the building material is donated or provided at reduced cost.
To learn more about Heartland Habitat for Humanity visit www.heartlandhabitat.org or call 913-342-3047.
About Humana
Humana Inc., headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky, is one of the nation’s largest publicly traded health and supplemental benefits companies, with approximately 10.3 million medical members and 6.8 million specialty members. Humana is a full-service benefits solutions company, offering a wide array of health and supplementary benefit plans for employer groups, government programs and individuals. For more information, visit www.humana.com.
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Contact: Kate Fields, Director of Resource Development
Office: 913-342-3047 Cell: 913-238-5124
kate@heartlandhabitat.org
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 31, 2011