FAQ's

Affiliate History

Myths & Truths

Valdosta-Lowndes County Habitat for Humanity is a nonprofit ecumenical Christian housing ministry dedicated to eliminating substandard housing in our community.  Our mission is “To create stable neighborhoods and communities with God’s people in the Valdosta-Lowndes County area.”  The affiliate was founded in 1987 on the conviction that every man, woman and child should have a simple, decent, affordable place to live regardless of race, religion, or background.  Sponsored by several community churches, the first Habitat home in Valdosta was built in 1988.  In June of 2004, Valdosta-Lowndes County Habitat dedicated its 100^th home, one of only six affiliates in the state to have accomplished such an incredible milestone. 

Valdosta is a growing metropolitan city in South Georgia with a population of about 50,000.  While the area continues to grow and support a robust economy, there continues to be a great need for affordable housing.  For this reason, the city government and their Department of Community Affairs has made the elimination of substandard housing a priority.  In 2001, this affiliate, along with the City of Valdosta and other community organizations, accepted Habitat International’s 21^st Century Challenge to eliminate substandard housing in the Valdosta-Lowndes County area by the year 2021.  With the current staff, strong community volunteer participation, and a very dedicated Board of Directors, the affiliate is now building 14-18 homes yearly, and expects to expand that number as it moves closer to the 21^st Century Challenge deadline.

The Valdosta-Lowndes County Habitat affiliate has hosted numerous special events over the years.  In 2003, they were one of three affiliates chosen to host the Jimmy Carter Work Project, in which 27 homes were built in one week with the help of over 800 volunteers from around the world.  Each year, the affiliate takes part in several “Blitz Builds” sponsored by various organizations in the community, including “Building on Faith,” “Black History Month Build,” “Blazer Build,” “Collegiate Challenge,” and “Moody Build.”

Habitat’s strategy for producing affordable housing for low income families includes the use of volunteer labor, sweat equity, donated materials and fundraising from individuals, churches, organizations and businesses.  The Valdosta-Lowndes County Habitat affiliate, in partnership with over 1750 individual volunteers representing various organizations in the community, including local churches, Moody Air Force Base, Valdosta State University, and numerous civic clubs and businesses, are tackling a significant social problem—decent housing for all.  

As of today, the Valdosta-Lowndes County Habitat affiliate has built over 150 homes, sheltering more than 600 people.  Through the work of this affiliate, low-income families in our community have found new hope in the form of affordable housing.