App Builds a Home-- Have you heard?

App Builds A Home is a campus-wide partnership with Watauga County Habitat to build a Habitat home for a local family in need. The students, faculty, and staff of Appalachian State University are coming together to design, fund, and build the home. App Builds A Home will be hosting events and fundraisers around campus to provide everyone an opportunity to participate in this exciting project!

Why Shelter?

Every day, more and more families find themselves in a struggle to keep a decent roof over their heads.

Caught in punishing cycles of unpredictable rent increases, overcrowded conditions, or lack of access to land and affordable financing, these families live with a constant burden of uncertainty, stress and fear.

Watauga Habitat for Humanity knows that safe, decent and affordable shelter plays an absolutely critical role in helping families to create a new cycle, one filled with possibilities and progress. Affordable homeownership frees families and fosters the skills and confidence they need to invest in themselves and their communities. The outcomes can be long-lasting and life-changing.

Big Kahuna Time!

Watauga County Habitat for Humanity is Recruiting 2019 Big Kahuna Campaign Contestants

Boone (January 23, 2019)   Watauga County Habitat for Humanity is currently recruiting participants for their 2019 Big Kahuna Campaign.  A Kahuna is a community minded person who volunteers to help raise money for Watauga Habitat by soliciting their network of personal and business contacts to donate to Watauga Habitat in their name.  This friendly competition kicks off kicks off March 1^st, 2019.  At the conclusion of the contest,  the results will be announced at a fun social event known as the “Don Ho-Down” on May 15th.  At this event, the Kahuna raising the most money will be crowned the “BIG KAHUNA”.

Watauga Habitat is currently looking for campaign contestants.  Letters requesting participation will be sent out over the next few weeks to many community leaders.  There will be a maximum number of Kahuna Contestants. Contestants can organize and host various events to raise money during the competition period—for example, hosting a cocktail party for friends or donating a percent of proceeds from your business.  If a birthday or anniversary falls in that time-period, you can ask friends or family to donate to your campaign.  The ideas are limitless, and the Watauga Habitat staff will be behind you all the way, coaching and promoting all you are doing.

Since 2015, this fundraising campaign has collectively raised over $175,000, almost enough to build two Habitat for Humanity homes.  Past winners include Linda K. Robinson of Premier Sotheby’s Real Estate, Justin Davis of Town Tavern Blowing Rock, Jenny Miller, Community Volunteer and Crystal Smith of Appalachian Mountain Brewery.

Joining this friendly competition is a great way to show your support for Habitat’s work in Watauga County, and participants are encouraged to compete as representatives of their businesses.

Those interested in joining the 2019 Watauga County Habitat for Humanity Kahuna Campaign should contact Director of Development, Allison Jennings at 828-268-9545 ext. 107 or allison@wataugahabitat.org.

2018 Top 5 Kahuna- Mark Murrey, Crystal Smith, Ella Jennings, Patti Turner and Brianna Lance

2017 Big Kahuna Jenny Miller with Watauga Habitat Development Director Allison Jennings

2016 Big Kahuna Justin Davis of Blowing Rock Town Tavern with Alex Hooker

The Original Big Kahuna 2015 Linda Robinson with Watauga Habitat Executive Director Alex Hooker

Watauga Habitat is Looking for Future Homeowners

Watauga County Habitat for Humanity will be accepting applications for our affordable housing program until March 31^st, 2019. Eligibility criteria for a Habitat home include a housing need, the ability to pay an affordable mortgage and a willingness to partner with Habitat.  Homeowners assist in building their own home and the homes of others and attend educational workshops on topics such as financial literacy and home maintenance so they are well prepared to be successful homeowners. The home being built will be a 3-bedroom house.

Those interested in learning more about Habitat’s affordable housing program can call Jennifer Ramey at 828-268-9545 or email jennifer@wataugahabitat.org.  Applications for a new 3 bedroom Habitat home are located on our website https://wataugahabitat.org/homeownership and can be picked up at Watauga County Habitat for Humanity’s office located at 1200 Archie Carroll Road in Boone.

Watauga Habitat for Humanity’s mission is to eliminate substandard housing and make decent, affordable housing an option for all families.  We do this locally and worldwide through construction, rehabilitation and preservation of homes; by advocating for fair and just housing policies; and by providing training and access to resources to help families improve their shelter conditions. Habitat for Humanity was founded on the conviction that every man, woman and child should have a simple, durable place to live in dignity and safety, and that decent shelter in decent communities should be a matter of conscience and action for all.  Watauga County Habitat for Humanity builds houses for qualified homebuyers regardless of race, religion or background.

6 Ways to Brighten Someone Else's Christmas

Merry Christmas Eve! If you celebrate Christmas, then chances are you’re spending today wrapped in a warm blanket, curled up by the fire and sipping hot chocolate with loved ones. You may have spent the last weekend ice skating, baking cookies or opening up a present or two. But, what have you done for someone else this Christmas?

While the holiday season is a joyful time for many, it can also be a difficult time for others. If you live an altruistic lifestyle, you can give back and make someone’s holiday a bit more joyful. Here are six ways you can brighten someone else’s Christmas.

1. Call your loved ones.
One simple way to brighten another’s Christmas is by calling. Some of your loved ones might live far away, have different plans or not be able to see you during the holiday season. Particularly for older family with limited mobility, this can be difficult. However, you can brighten their day by simply giving them a call and checking in. A few quick words of encouragement and affirmation can make a world of difference this Christmas.

2. Make Christmas dinner.
Food is always the perfect way into someone’s heart, especially through Christmas dinner. You can spread the love and brighten someone’s day this Christmas by making a little bit extra of dinner to share. For people who may not be able to cook for themselves or can’t afford to buy the ingredients, this can truly be the greatest gift of all.

3. Invite someone over.
It’s often been said that the holidays are the loneliest time of the year. Unfortunately, lots of people find themselves alone during Christmas for a variety of reasons. Instead, bring extra joy this year by inviting someone into your home. Share food, time and conversation with them to show how much they are loved and valued this holiday season.

4. Donate a gift.
Many individuals, families and children cannot afford gifts during the Christmas season. If you find yourself with a little bit of extra income, time or gifts this week, consider donating extra presents to a family in need. Whether you give gently-used goods, or buy a brand new toy off the shelf, you can definitely brighten someone else’s day—particularly a child’s.

5. Volunteer in the morning.
We get it: Christmas is a time to spend with your loved ones, which makes volunteering a tough request. But, why not consider volunteering Christmas morning? After you open presents with family, create a new tradition by volunteering at your local shelter or nonprofit organization. A simple hour or two of your time can have a huge impact on someone’s day. Afterwards, you will still have plenty of Christmas left to spend together eating, talking and celebrating. 

6. Have a conversation.
Ultimately, one of the most valuable gifts you can give this Christmas season is your time. Have a deep, intimate conversation with a loved one, neighbor or even a complete stranger, to share in the spirit of the season. While some people might feel alone or hurt during the holidays, you can share joy by listening to their stories and speaking affirmation into their lives.

Christmas is a wonderful time to spend together with family, friends and loved ones. However, it’s also an opportunity to give back. If you want to brighten someone else’s Christmas this year, keep these tips in mind to spread the holiday cheer.

GIVE THE GIFT OF HOME THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

Common Questions About Habitat for Humanity

You may have heard of Habitat for Humanity, but how much do you really know about us?  Watauga County Habitat is one of over 1700 affiliates across the world.  Habitat for Humanity can be found in all 50 states and located in 70 countries worldwide.

Here are answers to some of the questions we hear most.

Are Habitat for Humanity houses free?

No. Families who are in need of decent, affordable housing apply locally to Habitat for Humanity for homeownership. Their ability to repay an affordable mortgage (zero-interest loan), as well as their level of housing need and willingness to partner with Habitat, are among the selection criteria for becoming a Habitat homeowner.

Future homeowners receive financial education and complete 250 hours of sweat equity working alongside volunteers. Sweat equity can take the form of building their own and other Habitat homes, providing retail assistance at a local Habitat ReStore, or performing important tasks at their local Habitat office.

Learn more about what it takes to become a Habitat homeowner.

Did former U.S. President Jimmy Carter start Habitat for Humanity?

While President and Mrs. Carter are Habitat’s most famous volunteers and have worked tirelessly since 1984 to help families build houses and to raise awareness of the need for affordable housing, Habitat was founded by Millard and Linda Fuller in 1976.

The idea that became Habitat for Humanity first grew from the fertile soil of Koinonia Farm, a community farm outside of Americus, Georgia, founded by farmer and biblical scholar Clarence Jordan. There in the early ’70s, Jordan and the Fullers developed “partnership housing.” The idea centered on those in need of adequate shelter working side by side with volunteers to build decent, affordable houses at no profit. To build more homes, new homeowners’ house payments would be combined with no-interest loans provided by supporters and money earned by fundraising.

In 1973, the Fullers took the concept to Zaire, now the Democratic Republic of Congo, and launched a successful house-building program. After three years, they returned to the United States and founded Habitat for Humanity International.

Learn more about Habitat’s history.

Does Habitat for Humanity only build locally?

Habitat builds in local communities across all 50 states in the U.S. We also work in more than 70 countries worldwide. Learn more about all of the places where we work.

Can only Christians apply for Habitat homes? Can only Christians volunteer and work with Habitat?

Habitat is a global nonprofit, ecumenical Christian housing organization. While our mission is inspired by Christian teachings, all who desire to be a part of our work are welcome — without regard to religious preference or background.

Do I have to have construction skills to volunteer with Habitat for Humanity?

We welcome people with any skill level to volunteer with us on the build site, even beginners. On-site construction leaders train volunteers in all aspects of building. You do have to be at least 16 years old to work on a Habitat construction site.

You can also volunteer and participate in a variety of other ways, from becoming an advocate to helping out in one of our ReStores. Check out all of the ways you can support Habitat’s work.

Does Habitat need donations?

Yes, Habitat for Humanity needs donations to advance our work, and we appreciate your financial support.

Thanks to the support of people like you we are able to help people create strength, stability and self-reliance through shelter. It will take all of us doing whatever we can to create a world where everyone has a decent place to live.

Habitat Happenings Around the USA

Garth Brooks, Trisha Yearwood, former President Jimmy Carter and wife Rosalynn Carter are just some of the people coming together to build a home for Habitat for Humanity.

Check out this video of famous Habitat volunteers coming together to help build a place a family can call home:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qzEepWOXBUU









https://www.habitat.org/newsroom/2018/photos-major-stars-lend-their-hands-habitat-building-alongside-president-carter-and

App State Gingerbread House Competition

Join us for Appalachian State Habitat for Humanity's 8th Annual Gingerbread Building Competition. This exciting annual event will be held on Wednesday, November 14th at 6:00pm in the Blue Ridge Ballroom of the Student Union on campus. There will be Christmas karaoke, free food, prizes, and gingerbread building like you've never seen before! All proceeds raised during the event will go to Watauga Habitat for Humanity and help build an affordable home for a local family in need. Builders of all ages are invited to join in the fun and create a gingerbread house masterpiece for this worthy cause. Teams will have just over one hour to build their masterpiece and will be provided graham crackers and icing to help start their structure. It is encouraged to bring additional building materials such as candy to make your house stand out, but all structural materials must be edible in order to win. Teams can consist of up to 5 people and each group must pay a $25 registration fee to sign up. You can email habitat@appstate.edu to register in advance or sign up at the competition the day of. You won't want to miss out on this exciting event and the chance to help your community through the support of Watauga Habitat for Humanity!

Bradshaw Home Dedication

On Sunday, November 5th we welcomed our newest family to their home!  The Bradshaws gathered with volunteers, staff , board members and their family and friends to dedicate this home.  Jesse and Samantha have worked hard and we are glad they are able to purchase this home with a zero-interest mortgage!  Check out some of the photos of their new home!

Blueprints and Bow Ties Raises $47,000

ReStore Hosts Successful Event

Thanks to community support, Watauga County Habitat for Humanity (WCHfH) and the Watauga Habitat ReStore raised a record-setting $47,000 at their annual event, Blueprints and Bow Ties on Thursday, October 18^th.  This was the 7^th year hosting the celebration, designed to build awareness and support for Habitat’s mission to eliminate poverty housing by building decent, affordable homes in partnership with hard working families in need. This was Habitat’s 3^rd year hosting the event at the ReStore. “Our customers and supporters love to see what we’ve done each year when we re-do the ReStore,” said Allison Jennings, Director of Development.  “Hosting Blueprints and Bow Ties at our ReStore is our way of inviting guests to our home; and home is what we are all about,” said Jennings. 

Fabulous live and silent auctions were a highlight of the evening’s festivities along with a photo booth and PLINKO for guests to enjoy.  Auctioneer Jesse Miller broke the record for highest amount raised in a Blueprints and Bow Ties Live Auction.

Corporate sponsors of the event included Wells Fargo, WCHfH Board of Directors, Mast General Store, IONCON, Mountain Times, Appalachian Mountain Brewery, First Security Insurance and Patty Smith and Gary Moss of Ameriprise Financial.

“We are also extremely grateful to all the volunteers, ReStore staff, Jesse Miller and members of the Planning Committee.  The outstanding results of Blueprints and Bow Ties 2018 is because of their tremendous teamwork, creativity and commitment”, said Jennings.

SNEAK Peek !

Here is a SNEAK Peek at our Live Auction Packages 

Family Fun in the Sun ($480)  Enjoy a weekend in Myrtle Beach, SC. Includes a 2 night’s stay at Doubletree Inn, A $50 gift certificate to Ocean Blue Restaurant, VIP passes to Wonderworks and 4 tickets for a round of mini-golf at Dragon’s Lair

Hound Ears Gold Experience ($600) An award-winning golf course is the crown jewel of Hound Ears Club, this 18-hole course stands as one of the preeminent clubs in the High Country, as well as North Carolina.

Rug ($450)- 5 X 8 Hand-woven wool Dhurrie rug made in India from The Rug Company of Blowing Rock

Keep It Together ($ PRICELESS) Help us keep the house together! Sponsor all of the nails and screws that it will take to complete this year’s Watauga Habitat home.  It’s the little things that count.

Cabin on the Lake (approximate value $1000) Enjoy a week on Lake Tillary in a 2 bedroom/1 bath cabin on the lake, near Lake Norman

Ladies Night Out (approximate value $600) $250 Shopping Spree for 6 to Lucky Penny with catering provided by Reids Catering and wine, of course! ($350)

Ocean Isle, NC Dream Vacation ($2400) 4 Days/3 Nights at ISLE BE BACK - 396 East Second Street - This second row house features seven bedrooms plus a loft, and five baths on two levels. Amenities include a private pool. Even though this is a second row house, you will think you're on the oceanfront, with its magnificent, unrestricted ocean views.

Kid’s High Country Adventures ($1038)- Deer Valley Raquet Club Pool Membership ($600), High Gravity Adentures- 2 Ultimate Passes ($178), Pizza at Capone’s ($10), 2 Ultimate Tickets for Mystery Hill ($130), High Country Lanes Bowling ($20), Ice Skating for Two at Appalachian Ski Mountain ($40) 6 passes to The Blowing Rock ($60)

A Child’s Dream Room ($ PRICELESS) Every child needs a safe room to call their own. Sponsor the building materials and labor to build and decorate a child’s room in our next Watauga Habitat home. Inspire them to give back!

Montana Magic (approximate value $3000) One week stay in a rustic two-story house located on Carroll Ranch in Cameron, Montana. “The Grey House” is a four- bedroom, two bathroom ranch-style home that can sleep up to 8 guests. The Carroll Ranch sits on over 7,000 acres of beautiful and undeveloped land that connects to a national forest.

Date Night approximate value $375-Priceless) One night’s stay at The Inn at Ragged Gardens ($175) Dinner for Two at The Best Cellar ($100) Mystery Box  ($50,)Young Living Sensation Massage Oil ($45)

Adult Adventures- 2 Appalachian Ski lift tickets ($142), 5-Course Beer Pairing Dinner for 2 from Lost Province Brewing Co. ($80), One night’s stay at Gideon Ridge Inn ($200), Fly Fishing lesson for 2 from River Girl Fishing Co. ($150)

Raise the Roof ($ PRICELESS) We all have to stay dry! Help Habitat families have a good roof over their heads. Sponsor the building materials and labor to build the next Watauga Habitat house!

Restaurant Package #1- ($310) Support your local High Country restaurants with this awesome assortment of great dining!  Proper ($50), Puerto Nuevo ($20), Bella’s ($25), The Peddler Steakhouse ($25), Stick Boy ($20), Dos Amigos ($20), Storie Street Grille ($50), Blowing Rock Town Tavern ($25), Bistro Roca ($75)

Restaurant Package #2- ($305) The Best Local Dining!- Basil’s ($25). Los Aircoiris ($20), The Peddler Steakhouse ($25), CoBo Sushi ($50), Blowing Rock Town Tavern ($25), Storie Street Grill ($50), Peddlin Pig ($10), The Local ($50), Black Cat Café’($25) Ransom Pub ($25)

Weekend Warrior ($623) Cordless and corded Milwaukee tool package. All tools refurbished at Milwaukee factory and tested at our facility. No warranty but will be replaced by Watauga Habitat if available. 3/8" 8 Amp Drill  ($86.75) 1/2" Cordless Drill/Driver ($59.75) 18 Volt Lithium Ion 6-1/2" Cordless Circular Saw ($89.90) 18-Volt Hackzall Cordless One-Handed Reciprocating Saw ($78.87) Cordless Wet/Dry Vacuum ($99.85)  Extended Capacity Battery (2 pack) ($95.66)  Battery Charger w/ Onboard Fuel Gauge (2 pack) ($68.95) Milwaukee 48-55-3510 Contractor Bag  ($42.95)

Smoke Hollow 24 in. Pellet Grill and Smoker ($380)) For authentic smoked flavor, this wood pellet-fueled grill and smoker provides the true BBQ taste you're looking for. The low and slowstyle cooking process of using a wood pellet-fueled grill and smoker can take several hours, but after one taste of authentic BBQ smoked flavor you'll know it's worth the wait.

Worldwide 7-day Vacation ($2000) -One week vacation certificate valid with Endless Vacation Rentals with 100’s of locations worldwide. Book your trip by 8/30/2019 and travel must commence within 365 days of booking.  Endless Vacation Rentals offers access to one of the largest choices of accommodations world-wide.