KNIGHTS BUILDING HOPE NEW UCF HABITAT FOR HUMANITY CAMPUS CHAPTER

October 1, 2008

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

KNIGHTS BUILDING HOPE NEW UCF HABITAT FOR HUMANITY CAMPUS CHAPTER

Orlando, Fla. – For years, an array of student-led groups, clubs and organizations at the University of Central Florida have partnered with Habitat for Humanity Orlando to help build homes for local families. But, beginning this semester, their efforts will be consolidated under the same roof – thanks to UCF’s very own Habitat for Humanity Campus Chapter.

The new chapter was founded by students Conrad Kahn, Marc Garreau, Jason Lewis and Samuel Boundy, who decided to form the group last year, after they participated in Habitat for Humanity’s “Collegiate Challenge.” The four of them spent their Spring Break building homes in six states – along with 80-plus students from across the country – all of whom contributed long hours of manual labor during a time when many of their peers were relaxing on the beach.

“With so many other Knights already committed to serving Habitat, our new chapter is bound to make a lasting impact in the Central Florida community,” said chapter president Conrad Kahn. “We expect membership will grow significantly throughout the year as we host fundraisers and events on campus.”

The UCF Habitat for Humanity Campus Chapter is partnering with Habitat Orlando to plan and organize monthly volunteer build dates. Students will spend one day each month constructing decent, affordable homes. Tasks include everything from building walls and painting to hanging drywall and planting sod.

Most of UCF Habitat’s efforts will be centered around building Staghorn Villas – Habitat Orlando’s first townhome community that will provide affordable housing for 58 local families. Located in South Orlando, the new 3.9-acre development will feature 10 buildings, each of which include four to eight townhomes surrounded by green spaces and play areas.

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ADD ONE – HABITAT UCF

“The new UCF Habitat chapter will not only increase awareness of the need for affordable housing, but also help educate Central Florida on what Habitat Orlando is doing to help local families achieve the American Dream of home ownership,” said Dee Danmeyer, executive director of Habitat for Humanity Orlando. “We’re excited about working with university students both now and in the future as they become Habitat leaders, supporters and board members.”
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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 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.