Green Company Spotlight: Habitat for Humanity

By Andrew Jacobs
Mar 7, 2014

Green Company Spotlight: Habitat for Humanity

Jam Paper cares about companies that are going green and thinks you should too. Whether you print paper on both sides, communicate with employees via instant messenger or email, turn off power strips, or keep lights off in unoccupied offices, you are making a difference. Transforming your company into an eco friendly one will help you save money, receive positive feedback from customers, is a healthier atmosphere to work in, and most importantly it makes you proud of what your company stands for. Therefore, Jam Paper will dedicate a short series titled “Green Company Spotlight” that will give you an overview on how each eco friendly company has made a proactive choice to be environmentally conscious and how it has impacted their community.

tired blue cartoon car with tongue hanging out and droopy tires Smokey, Hot Wheels, Ruby, Christine, Midnight, Big Blue… the list goes on! We all have an undeniable attachment to our very, first cars. Our first road trips or summer rides to the beach would never be possible without our beloved hunks of steel. But we must admit after years of driving to the moon and back, Old Rusty needs a break. And he probably has been idly sitting in the driveway for years. But still we choose to shovel out the snow that surrounds him with absolutely no intention to take him for a drive. It’s time to part ways and as Old Rusty has served an infinite amount of purpose to your life, why not let him fulfill just as much purpose or more to thousands of other people’s lives?

Habitat for Humanity to the Rescue!

green company Habitat for Humanity

Habitat for Humanity is a Christian, non-profit organization that specializes in building and repairing homes for low-income families. It strives to decrease the high numbers of homelessness by providing housing for displaced families. Habitat for Humanity celebrates building and repairing a total of 800,000 houses worldwide and 4 million people who currently live in a Habitat Home. The organization prides itself in building its homes with the consideration of energy efficiency. In fact, in 2010 Habitat for Humanity Tajikistan won a national Global Energy Award for its resource-saving bio-sand water project. So what can I do with my junk car?

Donating your car to Habitat for Humanity Cars for Homes program is life changing! The organization accepts cars, trucks, RVs, boats, and motorcycles. At your earliest convenience, you can easily arrange for a pick-up and Habitat will transport your car for you. The funds from all cars sold are distributed to local affiliates who use the money to build and repair affordable homes. After your vehicle has been sold, you will obtain a letter thanking you for your generous contribution and information regarding the sale. “It’s easy; it’s good for the environment and in most cases, provides the donor a tax deduction”, declared Jacey Raimondo, Executive Director of Habitat Bergen. The vehicle will be transported to an auto yard that recycles its contents. They will collect salvageable parts such as the batteries, tires, and any fluids that are present in the vehicle. The car will then be crushed and reprocessed into steel. How can my car make a difference?

rows of tiny colorful houses and square yards with black streets

Did you know that donating your car to environment annually saves enough energy to power about eighteen million households? Wow that’s quite a big deal! Donating your car also allows Habitat for Humanity to properly place reusable items. “Many times, used cards end up in a landfill or sitting idle, but donating a vehicle for recycling or reselling is a hassle-free and easy way for anyone to help support their local Habitat affiliate and help provide affordable housing within their own community,” stated Marcia Rundle, director of Habitat for Humanity’s Cars for Homes program. Your donation has the potential to eventually allow Habitat for Humanity to build an estimated 45,000 steel-framed houses each year. Not only does donating your car give thousands of families a home to call their own, but it gives Mother Earth a fighting chance to preserve her resources all thanks to you! Jam Paper encourages you to join the cause and to donate unwanted vehicles. If you have any additional questions about how you can donate your vehicle, call Habitat for Humanity International at 1-877-277- HFHI (4344) or visit www.carsforhomes.org Green Company Spotlight Series:

Green logo with buildings and leafy arrow in circle

We are constantly trying to find companies that are finding innovative ways to go green and benefit the community. Keep an eye out for our Green Company Spotlight short series that will feature other companies and organizations, and what makes them eco friendly. Feel free to comment and share new recycling ideas!

Supporting Affordable Housing: Green Company Spotlight on Habitat for Humanity

As part of our ongoing Green Company Spotlight series, we are excited to shine a light on Habitat for Humanity, a nonprofit organization dedicated to building affordable housing for families in need. Habitat for Humanity is committed to sustainability and environmental responsibility, incorporating green building practices and materials into their projects. By focusing on energy efficiency, water conservation, and using eco-friendly materials, Habitat for Humanity not only provides homes for those in need but also contributes to a healthier planet. Their dedication to sustainable building practices aligns with our values as a company, and we are proud to support their mission.

Benefits of Supporting Habitat for Humanity

Supporting Habitat for Humanity offers numerous benefits, both for the families they serve and for the environment. By contributing to Habitat for Humanity's projects, individuals and businesses can make a tangible impact on the lives of those in need, providing safe and affordable housing. Additionally, supporting Habitat for Humanity's green building initiatives helps reduce the environmental impact of construction, promoting a more sustainable future for all. By aligning with Habitat for Humanity's mission, companies can demonstrate their commitment to social responsibility and environmental stewardship, enhancing their brand reputation and making a positive difference in the world.

Use Cases for Supporting Habitat for Humanity

There are various ways to support Habitat for Humanity, from making financial contributions to volunteering on build sites. Companies can partner with Habitat for Humanity through corporate sponsorships, employee volunteer programs, or in-kind donations of building materials. By engaging with Habitat for Humanity, businesses can actively participate in the creation of affordable housing while promoting their commitment to social and environmental causes. Supporting Habitat for Humanity can also be a meaningful team-building activity, allowing employees to work together towards a common goal and make a tangible impact in their community.

Alternatives to Supporting Habitat for Humanity

While Habitat for Humanity is a well-known and respected organization, there are other nonprofits and initiatives focused on affordable housing and sustainable building practices. Companies may choose to support local housing organizations, community development projects, or environmental advocacy groups that align with their values and goals. It's important to research and evaluate different options to determine the best fit for your company's philanthropic efforts and ensure that your contributions have a meaningful impact.

Tips for Engaging with Habitat for Humanity

When considering ways to support Habitat for Humanity, it's essential to communicate openly and collaborate with their team to understand their specific needs and how your company can best contribute. Building a strong partnership with Habitat for Humanity involves active engagement, ongoing communication, and a genuine commitment to their mission. Companies can also leverage their support of Habitat for Humanity as part of their marketing and public relations efforts, showcasing their involvement to customers, employees, and the broader community to inspire others to get involved.

Impact of Supporting Habitat for Humanity

By supporting Habitat for Humanity, companies can make a meaningful impact on the lives of families in need while promoting sustainable and environmentally responsible practices. Through financial contributions, volunteer efforts, and partnerships, businesses can play a vital role in creating affordable housing and fostering a more sustainable future for all. By aligning with Habitat for Humanity's mission, companies can demonstrate their commitment to social responsibility, environmental stewardship, and making a positive difference in the world.