Understanding the Organization of Habitat
When we have the opportunity to share the mission of Habitat with others, we are reminded of how well known Habitat is for its building efforts, but how little is known about the organization itself. To better understand the organizational structure of your local Habitat affiliate, we share the following information.
Board of Directors - The board develops and authorizes the programs and policies of the Lapeer County affiliate. Its major responsibility is to manage efficiently and effectively the office, plans, programs, services, and finances in fulfillment of Habitat’s mission and purpose. Typically, each of the board members serves for two years and is active on one standing committee. The Board meets on the 3rd Monday of each month.
Building Committee - This committee is responsible for planning and implementing the construction projects of this affiliate. The committee’s tasks include obtaining housing plans, soliciting professional help and donations of building materials, coordinating volunteers, and supervising construction.
Church Relations Committee - Members’ responsibilities include encouraging congregations to become involved in Habitat's work through pray, financial and volunteer support.
Fund Development & Public Relations Committee - Members’ responsibilities include planning and carrying out fund raising activities and keeping the community informed of Habitat and its community involvement. Committee members draw up a development plan, based upon Habitat’s goals and objectives, which give direction and focus to activities that support the work of Habitat.
Family Partnership Committee - Responsible for providing Habitat homeowners (partners) and prospective homeowners with a mutual support system, educational opportunities, and a forum for discussion pertaining to home ownership and maintenance, this committee meets on an as-needed basis. Its purpose is to help families break the poverty cycle by becoming independent, responsible, and successful homeowners.
Family Selection Committees - Members help draft the selection criteria and application forms for prospective homeowners, screening applicants, interview and recommend applicants to the Board of Directors for approval as prospective homeowners.
Site Selection Committee - This committee is responsible for investigating and researching the availability of property and recommending property to the Board for acquisition. In addition, members oversee the transfer of property from the previous owner (usually Habitat) to the partner family, review contract agreements with each family, recommend contract changes to the Board when desirable or appropriate, and provide a summary of contracts to the partner family.
Volunteer Committee - Members’ responsibilities include recruiting individuals and groups for committee participation, construction, special events, and maintains a database of volunteers and their skills.
Youth Committee - This committee's responsibilities are promoting youth involvement in Habitat through age and developmentally appropriate activities.
We are always looking for volunteers for each of our committees. If you are interested, please contact our Habitat Office at 810-664-7111.
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