Frequently Asked Questions: Q. What is Habitat for Humanity? A. Habitat is a non-profit, charitable organization. It has the legal status of a duly incorporated charitable organization. Q. Does Habitat give away free houses? A. Habitat offers a hand up, not a hand out. Habitat families must demonstrate their willingness to partner with Habitat by working 500 hours of sweat equity on other Habitat families' homes, Habitat projects and their own home. The families repay the mortgage over a period of 20 years. Q. Why should I support Red Deer Habitat? A. Habitat changes people's lives and builds better communities. We form partnerships with deserving, hard-working families wishing to build their own homes. Q. What has Habitat done in Red Deer? A. To date the Red Deer Habitat has built 11 houses, providing stable and decent homes for approximately 30 children and adults. We are planning to build 4 houses in 2006. Q. How does Red Deer Habitat work? A. We select the family, raise money and gather building materials, buy land, organize volunteers and then we build the house. Q. What is the Purpose of the ReStore? A. The ReStore generates funds from the sale of building materials to build houses. The ReStore recycles used materials so they don't end up in the city's landfill. The ReStore provides employment and training to a variety of people who are friendly, helpful and efficient!! Q. How is Habitat governed? A. Habitat for Humanity Canada (based in Waterloo, Ontario) has 67 affiliates across Canada. The Red Deer affiliate is duly incorporated and managed by an elected Board of Directors. Q. What are the powers of the Board? A. The Board has the power to elect Officers, hold meetings, appoint standing committees, approve new Board members, promote our programs, be responsible for the financial management of the affiliate, and enact bylaws. The Board takes all necessary steps, including fund-raising, and ensures that the purposes of HFHC are carried out. The Board promotes the best interests of the affiliate and has control of the properties of HFH Red Deer Region. Q. Are there opportunities for input other than on an elected Board? A. Yes. An Advisory Board is being created to consult with the elected Board. The members contribute their knowledge, support and experience in the community. They also provide access for the Board of Directors and Committees to community resources to make the program successful. The Advisory Board helps the affiliate network and raises awareness and support in the Red Deer community. About Habitat | Habitat Team | Our Sponsors | Donations Info | Projects | Get Involved F.A.Q.'s | Map To Restore | Contact Info | Home