• A MESSAGE FROM OUR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
• Perennial Exchange & Plant Sale
• Hall & Hunter Estate Sale
• Habitat for Humanity of Oakland County appoints new leader
• Check out our Rain Barrels on Craig's List- Live GREEN
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A MESSAGE FROM OUR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Welcome 2012!

As we enter the new year, I can’t help but reflect on how truly blessed I am to work with such a dedicated group of like-minded partners,
staff and volunteers; people from all walks of life who are focused on our mission – to provide safe, decent, affordable housing to families in need.

You are Habitat

At its very core, Habitat for Humanity is more than just our staff. It is all of you – our partner families, volunteers, sponsors, donors and board of directors.
Because of your support, we can look back at 2011 and count our many successes, including:

• A sound organization, in terms of human resources, management structure, partner family base and service to the community;

• The building or rehab of 21 homes throughout the county;

• Strengthening and broadening our partnerships with local communities and businesses; and

• Contributing $49,500 for projects in 11 countries through Habitat International’s tithing program.

Why Habitat Matters

As we look forward to all that 2012 has to offer, we are aware of the pressing needs in our community. We realize that you have to make tough decisions
about where you contribute your time, talent and money.

Be assured that we are doing our best to be good stewards of the funds and trust that you give us.

First and foremost, your support of Habitat Oakland County touches individuals and families, helping them realize the dream of home ownership.

In 2011, we welcomed a diversity of new Habitat partner families, including:

• RoAnne Redmond, a single mother of two children, who is attending Oakland Community College and working on her associate’s degree in business administration.
RoAnne is the first person in her family to own a home.

• Autumn Butler, who has a bachelor’s degree from Florida A&M and a master’s degree from Florida State University. This mother of twins and Lighthouse of
Oakland County employee is buying a home in Auburn Hills.

• Due to the tough economy, Jeff Frederick, a professional architect, was laid off from his job. He volunteered with Habitat to stay active in the building and
construction industry and use his available time to do something positive. He learned about Habitat’s home ownership program while volunteering
and decided to submit an application. Jeff used his architectural skills and knowledge to work off his sweat equity and is now a Habitat homeowner in Madison Heights.

But, your support goes beyond supporting a family that finally has a home to call its own.

Communities with good housing and stable neighborhoods attract economic investment and development, building social stability and security.

Since we were established nearly 18 years ago, we’ve dedicated much of our efforts to Pontiac. Despite the economic struggles the city has gone through, there are
many neighborhoods that are dramatically better today because of your support of Habitat Oakland County.

Plans for 2012

In 2012, we will continue to diversify our efforts throughout Oakland County, while continuing to develop communities in Pontiac.

While we have a lot of ideas and ambitious plans for 2012, our focus will be on:

• The families in need of decent affordable housing,
• A sustainable business model that will support our mission into the future, and
• Collaboration and partnerships that leverage our efforts in pursuit of our mission.

I encourage you to contact me with your questions, ideas or suggestions. I promise to respond promptly.

In closing, everyone at Habitat Oakland County wishes you and your family a blessed and happy 2012!

Tim Ruggles