Habitat for Humanity International was founded in 1976 by Millard and Linda Fuller with the goal of eliminating poverty housing worldwide. Habitat has grown tremendously and now builds at a rate of one house every 26 minutes! Habitat for Humanity now has 1,850 affiliates working worldwide, of which Habitat for Humanity of Benzie County is one.

In the 1980’s, a group of dedicated volunteers in Benzie County teamed up with a near-by affiliate, Habitat for Humanity of Grand Traverse, and began to raise money to build houses. As the group was putting together their core of volunteers and donors, they became known as a Task Force and  built homes in Benzonia, and Thompsonville. In September of 2008, they received affirmation from Habitat for Humanity International, and our local affiliate was born. Many of those original volunteers continue to donate their time and resources to further our mission in Benzie County.

Our first house was constructed in Benzonia in 2008. Our current construction efforts are in Thompsonville, with the construction of two homes which families will occupy in 2010.

Habitat’s ministry reaches deeper than just building houses with the needy of our community. It is also about building lives and rebuilding communities. It’s about working together, building partnership between races, religious beliefs, and economic backgrounds to share the love of Christ with one another.

Current house production has grown over the years,  as has our volunteer base and donor support. The Lord has truly blessed our ministry through a generous and supportive community. He continues His blessing on us each day through opportunities for future growth.