A celebration of community and generosity, Habitat for Humanity Capital Region hosted its annual Heart of Habitat on Thursday, April 23. Volunteers and supporters raised more than $200,000—a record high—in support of safe, decent, and affordable housing for local families in the Capital Region. Held at the MSU Federal Credit Union Headquarters, the event united corporate sponsors, donors, volunteers, and Habitat homebuyer partners for an evening of inspiration and impact.
Thanks to the generosity of presenting partner Delta Dental, venue partner MSUFCU, and supporting sponsors including Jackson, Clean Team USA, Eaton Community Bank, and Maner Costerisan, the funds raised contribute to a bold “whole-house” goal. Funding this home in its entirety builds momentum for Habitat Capital Region’s Valencia Project, a ten-home neighborhood on the south side of Lansing.
Habitat Capital Region President and CEO Brent Taylor opened the evening by highlighting the organization’s growth over recent years and sharing updates on the ambitious Valencia Boulevard project—the organization’s most robust effort to date.
The evening’s keynote speaker, Bill Kiebler, a veteran and long-time Core Crew volunteer with Habitat Capital Region, was honored with the Jane Johnson Lifetime Achievement Award. In a moving speech, Kiebler spoke of his legacy of service and leadership with Habitat Capital Region, and encouraged others to give of their time. He shared that his favorite part is the Habitat home dedications, where he sees the children excited to share their new rooms.
Volunteers, community partners, and awardees were recognized during a post-dinner presentation that honored the generosity and dedication that fuel Habitat Capital Region’s work– from building homes and accessibility ramps to revitalizing neighborhoods. Funds were raised through a combination of corporate pledges, individual donations, and an online charity auction. With the help of match partners RE Olds Foundation, Board of Water & Light, and LAFCU, attendees saw their donations double in real-time.
As Habitat for Humanity Capital Region looks ahead, the organization remains steadfast in its vision of a world where everyone has a decent, affordable place to live. Thanks to the success of Heart of Habitat, that vision continues to take shape.
See photos below:
About Habitat for Humanity Capital Region
Habitat for Humanity Capital Region brings people together to build homes, communities, and hope. Serving Ingham and Eaton counties, the organization partners with local families to provide affordable homeownership and critical home repairs, while engaging volunteers in meaningful service that transforms neighborhoods.
