Habitat for Humanity-MidOhio is in the business of connecting people to hope and opportunity through obtaining and maintaining affordable housing. This reason for existence has never been so critical or urgent. The work of a nonprofit affordable housing provider during an affordable housing crisis can feel exciting and inspiring while also overwhelming and nearly impossible. It can be a daily rollercoaster ride.
The concept of partnership gives me solace and hope for the future. Habitat’s model is built on partnerships – with individuals, foundations, corporate, public, academic, and faith organizations. To achieve our greatest potential as a human services organization, our partnerships must grow and increase. There are so many amazing players in the affordable housing ecosystem – far too many to list here. This vast landscape reminds me that Habitat-MidOhio need not try to “go it alone”. We can be a leader in helping solve the affordable housing crisis, staying true to our long-standing mission and essence, while also finding creative ways to serve the community in partnership with others.
We recently announced a partnership with the City of Columbus Department of Building and Zoning Services and Fort Hayes Career Center where students will help build affordable Habitat homes as part of their curriculum. I can’t think of a better win-win-win in the affordable housing space. We are bringing affordable homes to life while helping educate, inspire, and train the future construction and trades workforce, all while the city engages with up-and-coming professionals to ensure they understand the art and science of building codes and construction compliance. This makes me so excited, I can’t help but think – how can we engage every student in affordable housing, our greatest crisis, to further their education and experience while serving the community and region?
As I look to the next 3-5 years of Habitat’s service to the community, I know more and larger partnerships are integral to the fulfillment of our vision, a region where everyone has a decent place to live.
By: Brandi AL-Issa, President and CEO, Habitat For Humanity-MidOhio
