Habitat Helping Hands is Seeking New Projects

Habitat Helping Hands was launched in March of 2022 by Columbia County Habitat for Humanity to help senior citizens and low-income homeowners make critical safety and accessibility-related repairs and upgrades to their homes. This program brings together community partners to improve the quality of life for some of the most vulnerable homeowners in Columbia County and ensure families and seniors can remain independent and safe at home.

Habitat Helping Hands currently has openings for new projects. Some examples of past projects include the construction of wheelchair ramps, repairs to porches and steps and the installation of grab-bars and railings. Seniors, low-income and/or disabled homeowners are encouraged to apply by visiting www.HabitatHelpingHands.com or by calling 518-828-0892. 

Habitat Helping Hands is managed by Construction Project Manager, Mike Tizekker of Elizaville. Mike leads volunteers on each project and is always willing to teach people new skills as they work together helping neighbors in the community. Volunteers are always needed to keep up with the demand for this valuable service. While those with construction experience are always appreciated, the only experience necessary to volunteer is the willingness to help a fellow neighbor and make a difference in their community. 

Habitat Helping Hands is also seeking partnerships with local contractors in order to expand the scope of services offered in the future. Contractors will be compensated at an agreed-upon per diem rate. Contractors willing to donate a percentage of their time will benefit from marketing exposure of their business on the Columbia County Habitat website, in email communications and in social media channels. Interested contractors are encouraged to sign up at columbiacountyhabitat.org/contractors.
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In October of 2022, the Habitat Helping Hands program earned statewide recognition at the New York State Conference of Habitat Affiliates as Best New Program of the Year. To date, Habitat Helping Hands has completed 28 projects across Columbia County in Hudson, Hillsdale, Kinderhook, Canaan, Craryville, New Lebanon, Valatie, Stuyvesant, Stuyvesant Falls, Elizaville and Philmont. Habitat Helping Hands is generously supported by Ed Herrington, Inc., Greylock Federal Credit Union, The Dyson Foundation, Columbia County Libraries Association, Columbia-Greene Community College, and the Hudson River Bank & Trust Foundation.