Habitat for Humanity achieves No. 8 on the ‘Builder 100’ list

Ranking marks the first time Habitat is in the top 10

Habitat for Humanity of the Greater Harrisburg Area helped Habitat for Humanity achieve the rank of No. 8 on the Builder 100 list, marking the first time the nonprofit has been among the top 10 biggest builders in the United States. The list also shows Habitat, with 5,294 closings last year, moved up three spots in 2009 from its 2008 ranking of No. 11.

In 2009, Habitat affiliates repaired 710 homes nationwide, up from 621 homes in 2008. Around the world, Habitat for Humanity helped 61,005 low-income families by building 23,657 new houses and rehabilitating or repairing 37,348 houses.

Since its inception in 1986, the Harrisburg area affiliate has built nearly 60 houses, built 87 homes internationally and completed over 150 Home Repairs by providing simple, decent and affordable shelter with families in need.  Last year, Habitat for Humanity of the Greater Harrisburg Area had closings on three new homes and completed eight repair projects.

“We are just trying to do our part,” said Mark Mattern, Director of Development for Habitat for Humanity here in Harrisburg. “What we do is just a small part of what Habitat for Humanity is doing in the United States and around the world.  It makes you kind of proud to be included in the top ten of such an important list.”

Builder magazine’s annual Builder 100 List compiles data provided by the nation’s builders, including their closings.

“Habitat for Humanity affiliates have been working in more than 1,500 communities in the U.S. to ensure that more than 5,200 families had a new or renovated affordable home to live in last year,” said Mark Andrews, senior director of U.S. Operations for Habitat for Humanity International. “We could not have accomplished this work without the sustained support of local leaders, volunteers and donors.”

Habitat for Humanity is an ecumenical ministry that welcomes all people dedicated to the cause of eliminating poverty housing. Since its inception in 1986, the Harrisburg area affiliate has built nearly 60 houses, built 87 homes internationally and completed over 150 Home Repairs by providing simple, decent and affordable shelter with families in need. For more information, visit www.harrisburghabitat.org