Monday, June 20, 2011

LOCAL COMPANIES AND ORGANIZATIONS HELP HABITAT FOR HUMANITY REPLACE STOLEN TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT

Habitat for Humanity of Greater Orlando Area was recently a victim of theft. On May 5, nearly $13,000 worth of tools and equipment were taken from the affiliates construction trailers. In response, Universal Orlando Foundation, Amway Global, Grainger and Lowe's stepped in to donate both tools and funds, so construction could continue.
The Universal Orlando Foundation provided a grant worth up to $10,000 to Habitat for Humanity of Greater Orlando. The funds will be used toward replacing the stolen equipment. Amway Global, a direct-selling company of consumer products, made a $5,000 donation. Grainger - a leading supplier of building maintenance, repair and operating products - pledged to contribute equipment worth approximately $1,500.Home improvement store Lowe's donated goods worth more than $3,000. These items including miter saws, drills, combo kits, circular saws, extension cords, palm nailers, and an assortment of hand tools and drill bits. "We made this donation because our store has a personal connection to Habitat in Orlando," said Candace Hartley, store manager at the West Colonial Lowe's (Store #642). "We took it personal;y when such an admirable organization was hit by such a devastating act."
"Habitat provides a much-needed service to our community and we are proud to partner with them," added Diane Young, executive director of the Universal Orlando Foundation. "When we heard about the theft, we knew we wanted to help. It was the right thing to do."
The theft occurred as Habitat for Humanity of Greater Orlando Area was in the midst of National Women Build Week (May 2-7). In order to finish the week's construction, immediate donations were necessary.
"We are so thankful for the companies that provided us with donations," said Terry Eckert, director of construction Habitat for Humanity of Greater Orlando Area. "Without their prompt response, we would not have been able to finish the Women Build Week project."
Sandy Spielmaker, vice president of sales for Amway North America, added: "Amway is happy to lend a hand in this unfortunate situation - many of our independent business owners around the country support Habitat's efforts. We are glad to help Orlando's operations get back up and running."

Tuesday, November 3, 2009

Big thanks to our friends at Purple, Rock , Scissors for their time this week!!

You too can get some very helpful insights to social media strategies at their last FREE session tomorrow from noon-1pm at the Orlando Performing Arts Center.

Visit their site for more information www.purplerockscissors.com

Wednesday, March 11, 2009

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY ORLANDO REMEMBERS WALTER PHARR

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY ORLANDO
REMEMBERS WALTER PHARR
Central Florida Visionary Helped Acquire Land for New Habitat Homes

Orlando, Fla. – Habitat for Humanity Orlando is deeply saddened by the death of Walter Pharr – board president emeritus and one of the affiliate’s founding members since its beginning in 1986. Walter passed away on March 2 at the age of 91.

“In the mid-1980s, home ownership in Orlando seemed out of reach for many low-income families, but that was before Walter – a champion of affordable housing – stepped forward,” remembers board member Wally Miller. “He was one of the founding visionaries of Habitat Orlando.”

For more than 40 years, Walter built a successful career in the real estate industry. His professional experience, combined with a strong commitment to community service, played a key role in helping Habitat Orlando acquire affordable property on which to build new homes.

In 1991, he helped rally financial and community support around the Habitat affiliate, which included a visit from former President Jimmy Carter. Sixteen years later – as Walter celebrated his 90th birthday – he received a birthday greeting from the former president, commending his service to Habitat for Humanity: “Rosalynn and I commend your dedication to helping Orlando’s less fortunate,” the letter read. “You have been a lasting inspiration to your neighbors.”

Walter’s influence can also be seen on Pharr Avenue in downtown Orlando – a street named in his honor – where some of the earliest Habitat homes were built.

“Walter’s drive and relentless commitment to affordable housing captured people’s imagination and changed so many lives across Central Florida,” said Dee Danmeyer, executive director for Habitat Orlando. “His inspiration lives on in Habitat’s

work and through its employees, volunteers, partner families and supporters. We extend our sincere condolences to the Pharr family and are keeping them in our thoughts and prayers.”

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About Habitat for Humanity Orlando:
Habitat for Humanity Orlando is a not-for-profit, ecumenical, Christian organization dedicated to transforming the lives of low-income, hard-working families through the American dream of homeownership. Rated a four-star charity by Charity Navigator, Habitat Orlando works together with local sponsors, donors and volunteers to build communities and build families throughout Central Florida. To learn more about Habitat Orlando or to make a donation, call (407) 648-4567 or visit www.habitat-orlando.org.

Thursday, February 19, 2009

HABITAT ORLANDO RECEIVES LARGEST COMMITMENT IN 22 YEAR HISTORY

Dec. 15, 2008

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Habitat Orlando Receives Largest Commitment in 22-Year History from Thrivent Financial for Lutherans $533,000 commitment is made through national alliance to build additional homes in U.S.

ORLANDO, Fla. (Dec. 15, 2008) – Habitat Orlando was recently notified of the single largest commitment of financial support in its 22-year history: $462,000 from Thrivent Financial for Lutherans, coupled with a $71,000 commitment from members of Thrivent Financial, Lutheran congregations, Lutheran schools and other supporters from throughout Central Florida.

This award was made through a national alliance between Thrivent Financial for Lutherans and Habitat for Humanity International, called Thrivent Builds with Habitat for Humanity. Since 2005, the alliance has helped build more than 1,000 homes across the country. In the coming year, Thrivent Builds will boost that number by awarding more than $24 million to 226 Habitat affiliates in 37 states. In total, the effort will help build 314 more Habitat homes for low-income families in the U.S.

The Habitat Orlando funding will be used to help build five of 58 townhomes at Staghorn Villas, a new multi-family community located on the corner of Silver Star Road and LeHavre Boulevard. The 3.9-acre community will feature 10 buildings with four to eight townhomes each, surrounded by green spaces and play areas.

In addition, Thrivent Financial encourages its members to volunteer to help build all of the homes at Staghorn Villas, in addition the five townhomes they are supporting. The Habitat Orlando partner families who will purchase the homes will also invest 300-500 hours of “sweat equity” in constructing their own homes.

“We are thrilled about this significant award from Thrivent Builds with Habitat for Humanity,” said Dee Danmeyer, executive director of Habitat Orlando. “Together, Thrivent Financial and Habitat create a powerful example of how we, as a community, can work together to help eliminate poverty housing. The strong alliance we share puts more families into stable, affordable homes, which, in turn, demonstrates the positive impact that home ownership – and communities like Staghorn Villas – can have on individuals, families, neighborhoods and cities.”

-more-

ADD ONE – HABITAT ORLANDO

Scott Morris, Managing Partner of the Thrivent Florida and Mid-South Regions, added, "We are very excited for this wonderful opportunity to continue our relationship with Habitat Orlando. It's another great way for our Thrivent members and all the Lutheran congregations, schools and organizations in Central Florida to carry out our Thrivent Financial mission of improving the quality of life in our communities."
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About Habitat for Humanity Orlando:
Habitat for Humanity Orlando is a not-for-profit, ecumenical, Christian organization dedicated to transforming the lives of low-income, hard-working families through the American dream of homeownership. Rated a four-star charity by Charity Navigator, Habitat Orlando works together with local sponsors, donors and volunteers to build communities and build families throughout Central Florida. To learn more about Habitat Orlando or to make a donation, call (407) 648-4567 or visit www.habitat-orlando.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 more than 300,000 houses worldwide, providing simple, decent and affordable shelter for more than 1.5 million people. For more information, visit www.habitat.org.

About Thrivent Builds with Habitat for Humanity:
Thrivent Builds with Habitat for Humanity is a $125 million alliance between Thrivent Financial for Lutherans and Habitat for Humanity International to substantially increase Habitat’s capacity to build more housing. Thrivent Builds with Habitat for Humanity programs encompass financial, volunteer and advocacy components. They seek to engage Thrivent members, Lutherans and their communities to build hundreds of homes annually with Habitat for Humanity across the country and around the world. For more information, visit www.thriventbuilds.com.

About Thrivent Financial for Lutherans:
Thrivent Financial for Lutherans is a not-for-profit financial services membership organization helping nearly 3 million members thrive in life. Thrivent Financial and its subsidiaries offer a broad range of financial products and services including life insurance, annuities, mutual funds, disability income insurance, bank products and more. As a not-for-profit organization, Thrivent Financial brings its members together for social, educational and volunteer activities that support congregations, schools, charitable organizations and individuals in need. For more information, visit www.thrivent.com.

For more information, please contact:
Thrivent Financial for Lutherans
John Schultz
Lutheran Community Services Specialist – Thrivent Builds
(407) 682-0370 john.schultz@thrivent.com

WATSON JOINS HABITAT FOR HUMANITY ORLANDO

December 4, 2008

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WATSON JOINS HABITAT FOR HUMANITY ORLANDO
BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Orlando, Fla. – Brian Watson, an associate with Broad and Cassel law firm in Orlando, was recently appointed to the Habitat for Humanity Orlando board of directors.

Watson is a member of the firm’s public finance and capital projects, as well as corporate and securities practice groups. With his expertise, Watson has offered assistance and pro bono services to Habitat Orlando’s finance committee. His involvement with the organization was propelled further after he and the Broad and Cassel team helped build a single family home in the Pine Hills area.

Watson attended the United States Coast Guard Academy before transferring to the University of Central Florida, where he received his bachelor’s degree in business administration. He also earned his Juris Doctorate from Stetson University College of Law. He is an active member of the American Bar Association and the University of Central Florida Alumni Association. Watson has provided additional pro bono services for Give Kids the World in Kissimmee, the Warrick Dunn Foundation in Tampa, and the Coalition for the Homeless of Central Florida in Orlando.
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About Habitat for Humanity:

Habitat for Humanity Orlando is a not-for-profit, ecumenical, Christian organization dedicated to transforming the lives of low-income, hard working families through the American dream of home ownership. Rated a four-star charity by Charity Navigator, Habitat Orlando works together with local sponsors, donors and volunteers to build communities and strengthen families throughout Central Florida.

To learn more about Habitat Orlando or to make a donation,
call (407) 648-4567 or visit www.habitat-orlando.org.

BOZ'S HOLIDAY SINGLE TO BENEFIT HABITAT FOR HUMANITY ORLANDO

Boz's Holiday Single "Home For Christmas" to Benefit Habitat for Humanity(R) Orlando with 80% of Sales Going to Those in Need

Last update: 3:22 p.m. EST Nov. 24, 2008

LOS ANGELES, Nov 24, 2008 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Jeffrey "Boz" Bosworth ( www.bozmusic.com), the emerging, Altamonte Springs, Florida, based adult contemporary singer/songwriter knows everyone needs a "Home For Christmas." His feelings on the subject led him to his association with Habitat for Humanity Orlando ( www.habitat-orlando.org). Boz will be donating 80% of sales of his new holiday single "Home For Christmas" to the not-for-profit organization to help transform the lives of low-income families so they can realize the American dream of home ownership and be "Home For Christmas."

Habitat Orlando is a not-for-profit, ecumenical, Christian organization dedicated to transforming the lives of low-income, hard working families through the American dream of home ownership. Habitat Orlando is one of approximately 2,100 local affiliates of Habitat for Humanity International.

Habitat Orlando's success can be attributed to concerned and motivated citizens from all walks of life coming together to make difference in Greater Orlando. This common bond unites community leaders, corporate executives, church congregations, and volunteers to raise funds, build homes, qualify homeowner applicants, provide administrative and family support, and educate homeowners in an ongoing mission to promote successful homeownership, strengthen neighborhoods and improve the community.

Karma Knows is the provocative title of Boz's highly anticipated independent debut album on Island Estuary Music Publishing, it's also clear that he knows karma--the more love and joyful positive musical energy he creates, the more success will come naturally to him. Such as the success of the disc's first single "Home With You"--which is currently spinning on over 50 AC stations nationwide and Canada without benefit of a top radio promoter.

Boz brings a diverse musical background to his launch as a solo artist. He was the frontman for the progressive rock group Us, whose 2004 album Oblivion was released on Ravensbourne Records/Labels Enabled and continues to sell in large volumes in the U.K. and throughout Europe. Formerly known as The Chosen Few, the band toured throughout the Southeast from 1997-2005, playing festivals, upscale clubs and major corporate events. They also opened for Sting, Dave Bickler of Survivor and iconic rock acts The Fixx, Cheap Trick and Hootie & The Blowfish.

SOURCE: Luck Media & Marketing, Inc. Luck Media & Marketing, Inc.
Guy McCain, 818-760-8077 Copyright Business Wire 2008

PICCOLO JOINS HABITAT FOR HUMANITY ORLANDO

November 20, 2008

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

PICCOLO JOINS HABITAT FOR HUMANITY ORLANDO
BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Orlando, Fla. – Dr. Ronald F. Piccolo, professor of business management at the University of Central Florida, was recently appointed to the Habitat for Humanity Orlando board of directors.

Piccolo has played a key role in Habitat Orlando in recent years, having facilitated strategic planning and development sessions for the Board of Directors. As a result of these planning efforts, the nonprofit purchased Staghorn Villas – a 3.9-acre townhome community now under construction that will provide affordable housing to 58 local families. A native of Philadelphia, Piccolo received a bachelor’s degree in mathematics from Stetson University and earned his MBA from the Crummer Graduate School of Business at Rollins College. He also holds a Doctorate in Business Administration from the University of Florida.
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About Habitat for Humanity:

Habitat for Humanity Orlando is a not-for-profit, ecumenical, Christian organization dedicated to transforming the lives of low-income, hard working families through the American dream of home ownership. Rated a four-star charity by Charity Navigator, Habitat Orlando works together with local sponsors, donors and volunteers to build communities and strengthen families throughout Central Florida.

To learn more about Habitat Orlando or to make a donation,
call (407) 648-4567 or visit www.habitat-orlando.org.