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History
 Habitat for Humanity International (HFHI), the work of which requires little introduction to those even slightly familiar with affordable housing issues, is the world-wide parent organization of all Habitat affiliates and, as such, extends its highly favorable reputation upon which to build at the local level. In its 17 years of existence (through the 1992 grass roots efforts of Leadership Loudoun, a group of community entrepreneurs), Loudoun Habitat has provided homes to fourteen families, including twenty-nine children. Admittedly our “infancy” stage lingered, but as is often the case with an all-volunteer organization, it also provided a foundation upon which to grow and refine our mission. In more recent years, LHFH has molted into a strong, healthy organization now defined by its purpose, committed to its vision, and poised to effectively and successfully expand.
To those who call Loudoun home, it’s no mystery why families choose to live in this County, despite its lack of affordable housing. Loudoun County is a dynamic area which offers an outstanding quality of life to most of its 263,000 residents. Located just 25 miles from the nation’s capital, Loudoun has established its reputation as an international center for technology, communications and transportation. It offers high quality services to its citizens, including a first-rate educational system. It is widely known for its beautiful scenery, rich history and strong sense of community, the element which drives our affiliate to “provide a decent home in a decent community for God’s people in need.” Though the area is often characterized as affluent, the many individuals and families who fall short of such standards are left with little opportunity to experience the “American dream.” And so the gap, now recognized nationwide, widens still more in Loudoun County, the second fastest growing county in the U.S.
To its credit, Loudoun County’s Board of Supervisors recognized this disparity and stepped up to the challenge in 1993 when it created its Affordable Dwelling Unit program by which new homes provided and donated by the County’s homebuilders are sold to income-qualified (50% to 70% AMI) families at less than half the market price. In 2005, efforts were expanded with the creation of Loudoun County’s Housing Advisory Board whose mission is to make policy and program recommendations to the Board of Supervisors on unmet housing needs (below 100% of AMI) of people who live and work in Loudoun County. Its recently commissioned AECOM Housing Study projects a shocking shortage of 30,000 affordable housing units by year 2030—units which would house workers in construction, transportation, warehousing, government, and retail industries. While Loudoun is to be applauded for its efforts, it is not enough and will require assistance from many providers, the non-profit sector included.
Loudoun Habitat for Humanity aspires to stand in this gap, along with its army of volunteers who lead its committees, serve on its Board of Directors, construct at house sites, staff special events, enrich relationships with the church community, strengthen ties to our local government and officials, process/evaluate & support partner applicants, plus facilitate innumerable other tasks, projects, and planning. While much effort and organization will be required, our strength lies within our diversity, wealth of expertise, and commitment to our mission.
Our history now propels us into our future. Currently, plans are underway for a five-home development, The Erin Petersen Subdivision, in St. Louis, just outside Middleburg in western Loudoun. The first house is under construction and scheduled for completion by Fall 2009. Construction of the second and third houses, frequently built simultaneously, is planned to begin by Nov/Dec of 2009; the last two will follow in 2010. A shovel-ready, single-family house site is also being readied in Round Hill. LHFH’s most aggressive planning, however, involves participation in HUD’s Neighborhood Stabilization Program in conjunction with Loudoun County’s efforts to stabilize some of its older neighborhoods in the east. Our plans call for the acquisition of thirteen properties which will be rehabilitated and sold to partner families within the next three years. And, indeed our search for affordable, buildable property continues throughout the County.
Our newest venture, The Loudoun ReStore, opened in April 2009. It is located in Purcellville, staffed primarily by volunteers, and sells new and used building materials and home improvement items to the general public and contractors. All materials are donated by local retail businesses, building contractors, suppliers and individuals, resulting in substantial savings passed on to the consumer. Proceeds from ReStore sales will fund additional home ownership opportunities to low-income families.
Our greatest challenges lie within our ability to attract corporate sponsors, partner with the faith communities, and morph LHFH into a well-known organization whose mission and commitment transcend the sacrifices of time and energy of its volunteers. If you’re up to the task, why not join us on this remarkable journey? Take a few moments and read of the volunteer opportunities here on our website. Our country’s President has set forth the challenge of giving back to the community. LHFH can provide you with just that opportunity.
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Loudoun Habitat for Humanity was incorporated on April 2, 1993 for the specific purpose of providing adequate housing for all Loudoun citizens in need. It is the conviction of Loudoun Habitat for Humanity that everyone deserves an opportunity to work to obtain adequate shelter. Our ministry is based on Christian principles and we welcome the participation of people of all faiths as we grown the organization and strive to fund and build homes for those in need.