25th Anniversary of South Shore Habitat for Humanity
Happy SILVER Birthday!
South Shore Habitat for Humanity (SSHH) is pleased to announce that our organization and mission has reached a milestone of providing simple, decent, affordable homes in partnership with families in need for TWENTY FIVE YEARS!!!!!!! Officially incepted in 1986, SSHH enters its fiscal year 2011 with a rich history to celebrate and a bright, sunny, and busy future!
Before we get ahead of ourselves though, let us step back and take a look at some history. SSHH began in the basement of United Church of Christ Norwell, which still serves as a major sponsor and supporter. Some of our heroes and founders are John Ritsher, who currently serves as Secretary on the Board of Directors. Since retirement, John has spent countless hours volunteering to spread SSHH's mission. Robert Snowber, another founder and former Board Member, initiated what has grown into the "Special Projects Program". In accordance with the American Disabilities Act, a group of committed volunteers go into homes and construct handicap ramps, widen doorways, build safety rails and complete other handicap accessible renovations for families in need at cost. It is the hope of SSHH to reach 100 Special Projects this fiscal year. John Galvin currently serves as a Board Member and also sits on the Executive Committee. John has not only served as SSHH's Board president twice, but travels annually to El Salvador and the Gulf Coast to help build homes. All of these men are selfless and honorable, dedicating countless hours to establish and maintain this organization.
It was the intent of these men and other original volunteers to renovate homes for those in need while also helping families living in motels find permanent housing. As this work was in progress volunteers found a significant need for affordable housing throughout the South Shore, which led SSHH to become a self-governing and independent affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International and a state and federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit charity.
Raising the wall on the first Habitat home in Weymouth, 1992.
As an affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International, we conform to the same mission, by-laws, and guidelines as all international and national affiliates. In comparison to the other 19 affiliates in the Commonwealth, our affiliate is one of the most active organizations, completing up to six affordable housing units in some years. On the international scene, we are the benefactor to the Habitat for Humanity affiliate in El Salvador. Annually, a 10% tithe of unrestricted cash donations, less fundraising expenses is donated to the El Salvador affiliate. SSHH was a recent recipient of the Malachi Award presented by Habitat for Humanity International. This award was a result of reaching the $500,000 tithe mark over the years.
In 1992, after six years of renovating homes, a landmark was reached with the completion of the very first SSHH home in Weymouth. This project entailed securing land, fundraising, family selection, and construction. Perhaps one of the most inspirational and heartfelt moments was at the dedication ceremony for this home. A teenage son of the family spoke to the fact that he was no longer ashamed of where he was living. This teenager was finally proud and excited to invite his friends over to the place that he could call home.
Walnut Street, Hanover June 2010 – photo credit to Sue Petersen
Since that home there has been tremendous growth and production. To date, 48 homes have been completed, housing more than 83 adults and 185 children. SSHH's service area consists of 35 cities and towns south and southwest of Boston. Throughout this service area, SSHH has completed homes in 23 of these cities and town.
On behalf of SSHH's Board of Directors, staff, and most importantly Family Partners, our deepest and most heartfelt thank you goes out to each and every single one of you, volunteers and sponsors alike. None of these accomplishments could have been executed without your help. As we look forward to the exciting year that lies ahead we invite you all to remain involved and watch the completion of our 50TH HOME. We also ask that you take time to celebrate this monumental year by participating in many of our upcoming events and campaigns, which you can find on our website.
Beach Street demolition kicks off Habitat’s 50th home!
HAPPY 25th BIRTHDAY SOUTH SHORE HABITAT FOR HUMANITY!
