Who We Are
Habitat for Humanity in Whatcom County is a locally governed affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International. We are a non-profit organization committed to eliminating substandard housing through the building of safe, decent, affordable homes with our partner families.
Habitat has built over half a million homes around the world. Since we started serving Whatcom County in 1988, we’ve completed 52 homes and housed more than 188 Whatcom residents.
Our Mission
Habitat for Humanity in Whatcom County envisions a world where everyone has a decent place to live. Seeking to put God’s love in action, we bring people together to build and restore homes, communities and hope.
Our Vision
A world where everyone has a decent place to live.
We Are Committed to Serving Whatcom by...
Creating affordable housing by building and fixing homes across our county.
Ending the cycle of poverty forever for our neighbors in need.
Creating opportunities for everyone to volunteer in service to their community.
Selling inexpensive furnishings and home remodel materials to our community through our Habitat Store.
Building energy efficient homes through innovation and partnership.
Our Values
Faith in Action
We strive to trust in God and seek His help and guidance at every opportunity. We have chosen, as our means of manifesting God’s love, to create opportunities for people to live in decent, durable shelter.
Not to Profit from the Poor
We sell our homes for the cost of land and materials and then finance the homeowner’s purchase with an interest-free mortgage. A second mortgage covers the difference between the cost and the market value. This prevents partner families from profiting from the value of the gift of volunteer labor and being victimized by predatory lenders.
Partnership and Community
We ask our Partner Families to complete 500 sweat equity hours before buying their home. We invite volunteers, churches, civic clubs, businesses and other groups to help provide a support network to sustain the Partner Family in faith and community spirit.
Financial Accountability and Sound Gift Stewardship
Financial Statements are audited annually. Any contribution to Habitat is a gift that keeps on giving; the Partner Family purchases or receives repairs to their home with a mortgage underwritten by Habitat. The income stream from the mortgage provides the cash for the next project.
“Preach the Gospel Always, if Necessary Use Words.”
We express our faith through the work we do, not through proselytizing. All are welcome regardless of faith. You do not have to be a Christian to volunteer or become a Habitat homeowner. We believe every home we build is a lasting testament to how we as human beings care for each other, and how God cares for us all.
A Hand Up, Not a Hand Out
Habitat sells the homes it builds and does not give them away. Habitat does not do the work for free, but at cost.
Thoughtful Stewardship of Resources
We are always looking to improve our building methods. We will build green homes and use green materials wherever practical and affordable.
Giving Back
As a Christian Ministry, and as a part of our covenant with Habitat for Humanity International, we currently tithe 10% of our mortgage income to a sister affiliate in Haiti.
Local People Responding to Local Needs
We have a local volunteer board of directors governing a local staff and volunteers to help solve local housing problems with local community values. It is our desire to build community as well as homes.
Simple, Decent, Affordable Design
Habitat is vigilant to control costs and limit amenities to ensure affordability. Habitat is not a real-life version of Extreme Makeover.
