In order to realize our mission, we need others to embrace it. Atlanta Habitat for Humanity partners with homebuyers and neighborhoods to stabilize and strengthen families and communities. These multiple partnerships start with outreach. Atlanta Habitat serves a target population defined largely by income. Prospective homebuyers represent moderate to low-income working families with limited access to resources and information about homeownership. Community involvement and support is also a crucial element of success, and we actively promote it. We strongly believe that neighborhood improvement must occur with the involvement and interest of neighborhood residents and institutions.
Two full-time staff members and a growing number of part-time volunteers form our Homebuyer Outreach Committee. This committee gives at least four presentations per month in a variety of forums including PTSA meetings at area schools, daycare centers, Boys and Girls Clubs, neighborhood meetings and churches. Organizations within the neighborhoods in which we build are targeted first. In this way, we minimize transitions for incoming homebuyer families, provide stability for residents who already have a stake in the community and establish positive community relationships prior to development.
The majority of current homebuyer families learn about Atlanta Habitat through word of mouth. However, 19% of applicants approved in the past 12 months learned about Atlanta Habitat as a result of outreach efforts. Also through our outreach efforts, we have initiated and sustained many mutually beneficial relationships with community organizations, leaders and residents.
If you are interested in having Atlanta Habitat come to a meeting or event of your organization to discuss homeownership opportunities available through Atlanta Habitat, email the Homeowner Outreach Coordinator or call 404-223-5180, ext. 133.
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