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Morningside Neighborhood Gains New Homeowner
Morningside Neighborhood Gains New Homeowner 1200 800 habitatdetroit

We celebrated the latest Habitat Detroit homeowner, Donna McPherson, at a Home Dedication this summer.

“Becoming a Habitat Detroit homeowner has been a transformative experience. It has given me a sense of security, stability, and pride. I am overwhelmed with gratitude and appreciation to everyone who has been a part of this journey. I hope that my story serves as an inspiration to others, proving that dreams can indeed become reality with determination and support.”

Welcome to the neighborhood, Donna!

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Getting to know our 2024 Volunteer of the Year, Scot Norris
Getting to know our 2024 Volunteer of the Year, Scot Norris 1200 800 habitatdetroit

Scot Norris has been a devoted Habitat for Humanity volunteer for nearly two decades. His unwavering dedication, passion, and commitment to our organization have left an indelible mark not only on the Detroit community but also within the broader Habitat network, having volunteered with multiple affiliates across the United States and Canada.

In his pivotal role as a leader of the “Habituals” volunteer group, Scot was instrumental in revitalizing member engagement following challenging times for Habitat Detroit. His leadership was crucial in mobilizing volunteers to reconnect with our mission locally.

Scot’s knowledge of construction significantly advances our project timelines. Coupled with his deep understanding and support of our mission, he effectively engages both seasoned and new volunteers. His willingness to go above and beyond—often using his own tools or tackling “less desirable” projects—truly sets him apart as an exceptional volunteer.

Remarkably humble, Scot does not seek validation or praise; his sole aim is to improve the lives of homeowners through his work with Habitat for Humanity.

Congratulations and thank you, Scot, for your unwavering support of Habitat Detroit!

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State Farm and Habitat for Humanity Detroit Partner to Provide Safe, Stable Housing to Neighbors in Need
State Farm and Habitat for Humanity Detroit Partner to Provide Safe, Stable Housing to Neighbors in Need 1200 800 habitatdetroit
State Farm has provided $15,000 in grant funding for the Habitat Detroit homeownership program

Habitat for Humanity Detroit and State Farm have teamed up to build homes, community, and hope in and around the city of Detroit.

State Farm has provided a grant in the award amount of $15,000 to help Habitat Detroit provide homeownership opportunities to first-time, low-to-moderate income individuals and families. With plans to complete six homes for the program in the current fiscal year, Habitat seeks to help bridge the racial wealth gap and provide families with access to generational wealth. This year’s projects include four rehabs of existing, blighted properties and two new build homes. All of these projects will be completed in the Morningside neighborhood on Detroit’s east side.

“Working with partners like State Farm allows us to make a true, lasting impact on our communities,” said Stephanie Osterland, Habitat Detroit’s CEO. “When companies invest in our work, they are touching lives for generations to come. Here at Habitat Detroit we are grateful for every opportunity we are given through these partnerships which allow us to build the future of Detroit.”

Funds from State Farm will help cover costs associated with the build projects and other aspects of the homeownership program including homeowner education. State Farm employees will be invited to join Habitat Detroit on a build site and put their hands to work to complete a home for one of Habitat Detroit’s current homeowners in waiting.

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Thanking Sylvia Hubbard, Habitat Board Member and Habitat Homeowner, for Six Years of Service
Thanking Sylvia Hubbard, Habitat Board Member and Habitat Homeowner, for Six Years of Service 1200 800 habitatdetroit

Thank you to long-time Habitat for Humanity Detroit board member, advocate, and homeowner Sylvia Hubbard, who recently completed her term and stepped back after six years on the board! Sylvia has an incredible story and despite life’s immense challenges, was a constant source of inspiration and positivity during her time volunteering with Habitat Detroit.

About a decade ago, Sylvia’s life changed in just 8 minutes. A house fire quickly claimed the home she shared with her three children, as well as all of their belongings. A fund set up by neighbors overnight reminded Sylvia that there is hope and support in the community. From a very low place, Sylvia discovered Habitat Detroit and began looking into the program. In near-record time, Sylvia completed the homeownership process to become a homeowner!

Her positive experience going through the program inspired Sylvia to continue working with Habitat Detroit on a volunteer basis. She realized early on that she was helping people who had been through similar experiences and hardships. “I was helping an organization which did more than just build houses, they built hope when one felt all hope was gone,” Sylvia noted in a blog post.

Thanks to her enthusiasm and commitment to Habitat Detroit, Sylvia was selected to serve as the Homeowner Advocate Representative for the Habitat Detroit Board six years ago. During her final year of service, she served as the board’s Vice President. Sylvia has spent countless hours volunteering and supporting homeowners at home dedication ceremonies, at volunteer days, and at Habitat Detroit events.

“While serving on the board, Sylvia expertly represented the voice of the community and of Habitat homeowners,” remarked Stephanie Osterland, CEO of Habitat Detroit. “She was a fierce advocate for her peers, ensuring others had access to better housing and homeownership. She has truly embodied what it means to be a board member. We are honored that she chose to invest her time and attention to further our mission in Detroit.”

Sylvia’s positive attitude and omnipresent smile has been a source of so much hope and happiness over the 10+ years we’ve known her. And a decade after the tragic house fire, the Hubbard family is thriving. Sylvia’s three children are grown now, but they always have a place to call home.

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