Founded in 1976, Habitat for Humanity is a nonprofit organization that aids local communities all around the world with housing. The organization renovates existing homes (in urban areas), builds new homes for low-income individuals, responds to home destruction caused by natural disasters and raises money through ReStores. Habitat for Humanity partners with volunteers from all different age groups in the area to accomplish these tasks.
The Iowa Valley Habitat for Humanity was established in the late 1990s. The organization operates in five counties across the state including but not limited to, Johnson County, Iowa County, Washington County and Cedar County.
West High’s chapter of Habitat for Humanity was founded earlier this school year by seniors Anjali Mathews and Grace Cheng, sponsored by Kerri Barnhouse. West High’s Habitat for Humanity works with the Iowa Valley Habitat for Humanity to volunteer at house builds and restores. Club members have the opportunity to help build a home from scratch or improve pre-existing homes by adding additional amenities or accessibility components.
Homelessness is something that I was interested in solving. I just wanted to spread more awareness.”
— Anjali Mathews '24
Activities at builds and restores include cleaning siding, painting and hammering or drilling things into walls. Club members also volunteer at the ReStore, where they organize materials and sort bottles to raise money for builds. This is the club’s second house build since being founded. For those interested in joining the West High chapter of Habitat for Humanity, reach out to Anjali Mathews ’24 at [email protected] or Grace Cheng ’24 at [email protected]. No prior experience is needed and Silver Cord hours are available. Those interested in volunteering with the Iowa Valley Habitat for Humanity directly can visit their website for more information.
