Building Community through Volunteering & Advocacy
Guest blog by Shannon Twiss, Lead Volunteer Coordinator & AmeriCorps Service Member & Greta Gaetz, Local/Regional Policy & Advocacy Coordinator Each...
In honor of National Volunteer Week, we want to take a moment to recognize and encourage volunteering through advocacy and community engagement with Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity! We truly believe that by working together, so much can be accomplished even without hammers and hard hats. Last Tuesday, those who gathered at the State Capitol for Habitat on the Hill used their voices as their power tool.
We know that Minnesota will thrive when everyone has a safe, stable, and affordable place to call home. We also know that Habitat can't simply build our way out of our community's current housing affordability crisis. Housing Heroes are Habitat supporters who advocate for investments in affordable housing by engaging with their elected officials in-person, by phone, and by email.
Approximately 100 Housing Heroes arrived at the Capitol to meet with House Representatives and Senators. The morning began with inspiring speakers including: Sue Haigh, President and CEO of Twin Cities Habitat; Mary Tingerthal, Minnesota Housing Commissioner; Representative Alice Hausman; Senator David Senjem; and Chris Vosbeek, Habitat for Humanity Minnesota's Executive Director. There were many powerful words throughout the morning, but no stories compared to Habitat homeowner Buffy's story. Buffy shared about her experience going from homelessness, with her children, to owning her own house. She now works for Hennepin County helping others find a home.
The Housing Heroes were fired-up and ready to meet with legislators after listening to Buffy's story.
The day was extremely successful and we made our presence known by talking with a total of 36 Senators, 48 Representatives, and the Lieutenant Governor, Tina Smith.
We were proud to swarm the capitol making our voices heard, but there is room for more voices!
WE NEED YOU!
Here is what we need you to do:
Your gift unlocks bright futures! Donate now to create, preserve, and promote affordable homeownership in the Twin Cities.
Guest blog by Shannon Twiss, Lead Volunteer Coordinator & AmeriCorps Service Member & Greta Gaetz, Local/Regional Policy & Advocacy Coordinator Each...
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