At the Hesperia House ribbon cutting in October of this year Habitat for Humanity ReStore Manager Jon Biggs with Hesperia City Council Member Russell “Russ” Blewett and Tim Garcia Habitat for Humanity construction manager
(Redlands, CA) Once upon a time, if a family wanted to build a home, everyone in the community would welcome its new neighbors by pitching in and helping. The home would quickly rise up from the ground, and the grateful new residents of this community would show their gratitude by becoming productive citizens who, in turn, helped other neighbors.
Today, an organization called Habitat for Humanity provides that same kind of help; by organizing community volunteers to help deserving low-income families who as an example make up to $50,950 a year for a family of four build their first home.
It isn’t quite as simple though as it was “once upon a time.” For one thing, in the 21st Century, there are a myriad of law governing how people build houses, and there are permits that must be obtained from several local government agencies. It also takes a great deal of skill and knowledge to put together the type of home in which a modern family would feel comfortable.
To make all of that happen a professional construction manager is essential. At Habitat for Humanity, San Bernardino Area, this construction manager is licensed general contractor Tim Garcia.
“Tim is a professional contractor who is dedicated to his work,” said Dennis Baxter, executive director of the Habitat for Humanity of San Bernardino. “And he is a man who does many good things for his community.”
Garcia has had a relationship with Habitat for Humanity of San Bernardino almost since it began. This connection started at the First Presbyterian Church of San Bernardino, where Garcia and Habitat for Humanity of San Bernardino chapter founder, San Bernardino Mayor Patrick Morris, both attend.
Mayor Morris started the local Habitat chapter in 1992 after working with one of the international organization’s most famous volunteers, former United States President Jimmy Carter. At the beginning, the Mayor’s church got on board by sending teams of volunteers to Habitat for Humanity’s building projects.
Two years later, Garcia signed up for one of those teams, and thoroughly enjoyed this service. Not only did he volunteer many times after that, he also served as a member of the Board of Directors from 1999-2001 and as resident from 2001–2002.
He enjoyed his contributions to Habitat for Humanity hence since 2004; Garcia has been a part-time employee of Habitat for Humanity, serving as its construction manager.
“That meant they started paying me for the things I was already doing,” Garcia said. “It is my job to train and supervise all the volunteers, which I had been doing as a volunteer.”
Tim Garcia Habitat for Humanity construction manager
Garcia also has a full-time job managing his own business, Inland Construction, which provides remodeling and building services to the general public. He has been a licensed general contractor since 2003, and worked in construction for a decade before.
Habitat for Humanity has thousands of chapters throughout the world, including 15 in southern California. The San Bernardino chapter, established in 1992 by current San Bernardino Mayor Patrick Morris, serves most of San Bernardino County. Its territory extends from Fontana to Yucaipa, and north to the desert and Victor Valley areas.
Garcia is a long time resident of San Bernardino and the son of community leaders and philanthropists Ernie and Dottie Garcia.
All Habitat for Humanity organizations acquire either vacant land or dilapidated homes. From these, Habitat creates quality homes, and provides financial assistance to carefully selected families who will receive these homes when they are complete. The families contribution includes 500 hours of sweat equity in the Habitat for Humanity projects, pay zero interest and pay monthly mortgages of about $500 to $700 a month.
The adults in these families work with Habitat for Humanity staff and community volunteers to construct the homes, although the projects are managed and supervised by licensed general contractors. Since it has volunteer labor, and often uses donated supplies, it constructs homes for less cost than typical construction.
The San Bernardino chapter serves San Bernardino County communities between Fontana and Yucaipa, as well as the Mountain Communities of Running Springs, Lake Arrowhead, and Crestline, and the Upper Desert towns of Hesperia, Apple Valley and Victorville.
Habitat for Humanity has plans to build seven homes in San Bernardino and Grand Terrace for families that as an example make up to $50,950 for a family of four.
To donate, volunteer or for more information, go online to www.habitatsb.org, or call Habitat for Humanity at (909) 478-1176.
About Habitat for Humanity San Bernardino Area, Inc.
Habitat for Humanity San Bernardino Area is the local affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International, a faith-based nonprofit organization that works in partnership with families to strengthen communities and transform lives by building new homes, rehabilitating existing homes, and making affordable home ownership a reality for community members in need.
Habitat for Humanity San Bernardino Area serves San Bernardino County communities between Fontana and Yucaipa, as well as the Mountain Communities of Running Springs, Lake Arrowhead, and Crestline, and the Upper Desert towns of Hesperia, Apple Valley and Victorville.
The Habitat for Humanity ReStore is a deep discounted home improvement store that sells building materials, appliances, home accessories, and furniture. The ReStore accepts donated goods, which are sold to the general public at a fraction of the retail price. All proceeds are used to fund the administration and rehabilitation or construction of Habitat for Humanity homes.
To find out more about Habitat for Humanity, call 909-478-1176 or visit www.HabitatSB.org. We also ask you to LIKE us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/SBReStore.
Reaching out to faith based communities Dr. Kathleen Henry attended the ground breaking for the new Salvation Army Corps location in San Bernardino. Left to right: Salvation Army Board member Tom Brickley, new Corps leaders Captain Anya Henderson, Major Dan Henderson and Dr. Kathleen Henry.
(Redlands, CA) Habitat for Humanity of San Bernardino is revitalizing its efforts to work with faith-based organizations, which will help it to provide greater service to the community it serves.
It will bring about these cooperative ventures through the newly renamed Faith Based Committee, which had previously been known as the Church Relations Committee. This committee reaches out to the faith-based organizations in its community to procure donations of construction supplies, volunteer construction crews, meals and prayers.
“Habitat for Humanity is a Christian organization,” said Dr. Kathleen Henry, one of the directors of the Habitat for Humanity board and a member of the Faith Based Committee. “The Faith Committee is reaching out to other faith based organizations, to form coalitions that will help with our common goal, which is to provide people with homes.”
Since the committee is newly reorganized, Habitat for Humanity wants to add additional people as soon as possible. From this additional membership, the committee will select a chairperson and other officers soon, and in 2014 begin its community outreach campaign.
“We will meet with other faith-based organizations and find out what their resources and needs are,” Henry said. “They may know people who can help with their expertise, they may know of families in need, or they may know of property owners who want to donate property,” she said.
“We will meet with other faith-based organizations and find out what their resources and needs are,” Habitat for Humanity Faith Committee Chair Kathleen Henry said. “They may know people who can help with their expertise, they may know of families in need, or they may know of property owners who want to donate property,” she said.
The people who want to help may have specific expertise, such as construction or environmental review, or they may simply be volunteers willing to help in any way the organization needs.
The new name better reflects the committee’s purpose, bringing together all faith-based organizations to help with Habitat for Humanity’s goals of eliminating poverty and providing affordable homes.
“The faith community has been an important part of our organization since this chapter was founded in 1992,” said Executive Director Dennis Baxter. “A faith-based committee has for most of this time worked to develop relationships between Habitat for Humanity and other faith-based organizations, but for some reason the committee has not been active in the last six or seven years. Our board now wants to bring this committee back.”
The new name is one that many southern California chapters of Habitat for Humanity use to better reflect the many types of faith-based groups in their cities.
“We have temples, synagogues, mosques and many other types of places where people have faith,” Baxter said. “While Habitat for Humanity is a Christian-based organization, we want to engage with organizations representing all faiths. We all have the same purpose of eliminating poverty and providing low-income housing through home ownership.”
It is an honor to have Dr. Kathleen Henry lead the reorganization of the Faith Based Committee. She is a great organizer with dedication to serving our community.
Dr. Henry’s community contribution includes: an elected trustee of the San Bernardino Community College District, Member Steering Committee for the Women’s Leadership Council of Arrowhead United Way, Chairperson for the Scholarship Committee of the Highland Woman’s Club, member/past Chair of Youth Services and K-Kids at Kiwanis Club of Highland, and she serves as an Ambassador for the Highland Chamber of Commerce.
Families work with Habitat for Humanity staff and community volunteers to construct the homes, although the projects are managed and supervised by licensed general contractor Tim Garcia. Since it has volunteer labor, and often uses donated supplies, Habitat for Humanity constructs homes for less cost than typical construction.
The San Bernardino chapter serves San Bernardino County communities between Fontana and Yucaipa, as well as the Mountain Communities of Running Springs, Lake Arrowhead, and Crestline, and the Upper Desert towns of Hesperia, Apple Valley and Victorville.
The agency currently has plans to build seven homes in San Bernardino and Grand Terrace. All will be three-bedroom, two-bath homes with attached two-car garages. The homeowners will be able to add their personal touches on these homes by choosing paint colors and carpeting.
To join the Faith Based Committee or for more information, go online to www.habitatsb.org, or call Habitat for Humanity, Executive Director Dennis Baxter at (909) 478-1176.
About Habitat for Humanity San Bernardino Area, Inc.
Habitat for Humanity San Bernardino Area is the local affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International, a faith-based nonprofit organization that works in partnership with families to strengthen communities and transform lives by building new homes, rehabilitating existing homes, and making affordable home ownership a reality for community members in need.
The Habitat for Humanity ReStore is a deep discounted home improvement store that sells building materials, appliances, home accessories, and furniture. The ReStore accepts donated goods, which are sold to the general public at a fraction of the retail price. All proceeds are used to fund the administration and rehabilitation or construction of Habitat for Humanity homes.
To find out more about Habitat for Humanity, call 909-478-1176 or visit www.HabitatSB.org. We also ask you to LIKE us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/SBReStore.
Habitat for Humanity Executive Director Dennis Baxter shows off some the non-perishable food donated for discounts from The Habitat for Humanity ReStore. Food is donated to the Second Harvest for its holiday Food Drive,
(Redlands, CA) Habitat for Humanity San Bernardino Area has partnered with Second Harvest for its holiday Food Drive. The people who want to help the less fortunate are asked to drop off non-perishable canned and boxed food items the Habitat for Humanity ReStore located at 25948 Business Center Drive in Redlands from now till December 28.
People that bring any three non-perishable canned or boxed items the ReStore will receive a coupon that can be used instantly or on a future purchase,” said Habitat for Humanity ReStore Manager Jon Biggs.
For extra savings Biggs offers customers that bring the items listed below an extra five percent off their purchase in addition to the coupon.
“This week’s coupon is worth 20 percent off your total purchase,” said Biggs. “Bring in specific items on the following days and receive 25 percent off of your total purchase – excluding area rugs.”
“On Tuna Tuesday bring tuna, for Wheaties Wednesday bring full size boxes of cereal, on Throwback Thursday bring macaroni and cheese and/or peanut butter and jelly, on Funky Friday bring spam and sardines, and on spaghetti Saturday bring spaghetti sauce and pasta,” said Biggs.
Coupons will be limited to one per day, per customer and can be redeemed until Jan. 31, 2014.
“We see this as a fun way for people to help the hungry and at the same time help Habitat for Humanity build more homes,” said Executive Director Dennis Baxter.
The Habitat for Humanity San Bernardino chapter serves San Bernardino County communities between Fontana and Yucaipa, as well as the Mountain Communities of Running Springs, Lake Arrowhead, and Crestline, and the Upper Desert towns of Hesperia, Apple Valley and Victorville.
Habitat for Humanity currently has plans to build seven homes in San Bernardino and Grand Terrace for families making less than $50,950 a year for a family of four. The homeowners will be able to add their personal touches on these homes by choosing paint colors, flooring carpeting.
To make a donation or for more information, go online to www.habitatsb.org, or call Habitat for Humanity (909) 478-1176.
About Habitat for Humanity San Bernardino Area, Inc.
Habitat for Humanity San Bernardino Area is the local affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International, a faith-based nonprofit organization that works in partnership with families to strengthen communities and transform lives by building new homes, rehabilitating existing homes, and making affordable home ownership a reality for community members in need.
The Habitat for Humanity ReStore is a deep discounted home improvement store that sells building materials, appliances, home accessories, and furniture. The ReStore accepts donated goods, which are sold to the general public at a fraction of the retail price. All proceeds are used to fund the administration and rehabilitation or construction of Habitat for Humanity homes.
To find out more about Habitat for Humanity, call 909-478-1176 or visit www.HabitatSB.org. We also ask you to LIKE us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/SBReStore.
The Espinoza family receives their new home. Left to right: Habitat for Humanity Barbara Keough, Secretary; Richard Brown; President; Dennis Baxter, Executive Director; John Biggs, ReStore manager; Tim Garcia, General Contractor; Aubrey Espinoza; Jessica Espinoza, Steven Espinoza, holding the Habitat for Humanity sign Steven Espinoza Jr.; Jack B. Russell, Vice President; Maritza Solis, Office Manager and Volunteer Coordinator; and Hesperia City Council Member Russell “Russ” Blewett.
(Hesperia, CA) Steven and Jessica Espinoza, their nine-year-old son Steven, Jr. and five-year-old daughter Aubrey were giddy as they waited to move into their new home in Hesperia built by Habitat for Humanity.
“It feels great, amazing, wonderful to finally be moving into our new home,” said Steven Espinoza. “We’ve been waiting years for this opportunity and we are so excited and grateful!”
“To the Habitat for Humanity board and all the volunteers we say thank you very much. Words cannot describe how grateful and excited I feel!” said Jessica Espinoza. “The 500 hours of sweat equity we put into this home and The Habitat for Humanity ReStore was so worth it!”
The ribbon cutting for San Bernardino Area’s newest Habitat for Humanity home was recently completed in the high desert city of Hesperia while board members, volunteers, community leaders and the Espinoza’s family and friends celebrated.
“We have gathered together to see God’s blessing upon this home, which by favor of God and human labor has been made ready for this family,” said Dennis Baxter, Executive Director for Habitat for Humanity. “This home is not only a dwelling, but a symbol to us of God’s love manifested through the efforts of many people and this family that will make this house a home.”
Board members consecrated the home, gave thanks to volunteers and donors, and welcomed the family with a new bible and other gifts.
Getting the keys to their new home are left to right: two-year-old Aubrey, Jessica, six-year-old Steven Jr., and Steven Espinoza, from Habitat for Humanity Executive Director Dennis Baxter.
“We offer prayers of thanksgiving for all of you who represent God’s love. We will continue to build on the solid foundation that built this house, and we commit to making it a home. We want to thank God and all of God’s workers who have made today possible,” said Steven Espinoza, Jr. as he read a prepared statement from the Espinoza family.
Chase Bank donated the one-story 1,600 square foot home with three bedrooms and two bathrooms and San Manuel Band of Mission Indians funded the $30,000 rehabilitation of the home.
“We are firmly committed to helping families like the Espinoza’s pursue affordable homeownership through our home donation program,” said Ryan Crowley, head of Government and Community Partnerships for Chase. “We are pleased to partner with Habitat for Humanity San Bernardino Area, who share our commitment to revitalize neighborhoods and preserve affordable housing.”
Before they moved into the new home, Steven and Jessica lived in Bloomington in a small house that they shared with relatives. Now they found the home movers in New York City and have their own home with a big backyard.
Hesperia City Council Member Russell “Russ” Blewett, brought greetings from Mayor Bill Holland and the city council along with a proclamation thanking Habitat for Humanity. Blewett also welcomed the Espinoza family to Hesperia and added, “We are neighbors you know, I just live a couple blocks from here. Service to your fellow man, that’s a wonderful thing. I want to thank all of the great partners that helped to build this wonderful home in Hesperia,” .
The house is a great fit for the four-member Espinoza family. The house sits on a half-acre lot, perfect for the kids to play in and to entertain family and friends. The front yard was landscaped with low maintenance xeriscaping, allowing 150 sq. ft. of grass as a play area.
Hesperia City Council Member Russell “Russ” Blewett, brought greetings from Mayor Bill Holland and the city council along with a proclamation thanking Habitat for Humanity. Blewett also welcomed the Espinoza family to Hesperia and added, “We are neighbors you know, I just live a couple blocks from here. Service to your fellow man, that’s a wonderful thing. I want to thank all of the great partners that helped to build this wonderful home in Hesperia,” said Blewett.
The mission of Habitat for Humanity is to eliminate substandard, poverty housing. “We plan to achieve this mission by providing decent, affordable housing for low-income families by bringing together the necessary volunteers, experienced help, suppliers, city and government agencies, and families to form partnerships in an atmosphere of God’s love for all people,” said Baxter.
Since the affiliate was incorporated in 1992, Habitat for Humanity has built or rehabilitated 25 homes in Redlands, San Bernardino, Fontana, Loma Linda, Colton, Yucaipa, Highland and now Hesperia, delivering housing for more than 100 people.
Habitat for Humanity is not a giveaway program. Selected local families who receive homes must contribute 500 hours of sweat equity by participating in the actual construction of their own house and other Habitat projects, pay closing costs, and pay the monthly mortgage. The mortgage consists of the principal, taxes, and insurance payments, on an interest free loan over 20 – 30 years. The Espinoza’s payment is about $600 a month.
Habitat for Humanity, San Bernardino Area Board members are: Richard Brown, President; Jack B. Russell, Vice President, Christina Benjamin, Treasurer; Barbara Keough, Secretary; Scott Johnson, Matt Le Vesque, Martha Cowles, Timothy Prince, Renea Wickman, Jesse Mock and Kathleen Henry.
Steven and Jessica sign the documents to their new house.
The Espinoza home was rehabilitated by a dedicated corps of community volunteers, the sweat equity of the homeowners and the generous contributions from community businesses including: Chase, San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, Whirlpool, Lowe’s, Valspar, The Habitat for Humanity ReStore, Pat and Patrisha Meagher, Carpet Corral, ITT Tech, Benefiel Appraisal Service, Russell’s Heating & Air, David’s Drywall, Signs to Go, Rondy’s Glass, RWC Building Products, Advance Disposal & Recycling, The City of Hesperia, and Oasis Church.
The Habitat for Humanity San Bernardino Area affiliate serves the communities of Redlands, Loma Linda, Fontana, San Bernardino, Highland, Yucaipa, Colton, Bloomington, Rialto, Grand Terrace, Mentone, Running Springs, Lake Arrowhead, Hesperia, Apple Valley and Victorville.
Habitat for Humanity’s next building project is a ground up construction in North San Bernardino. The project will cost about $150,000 and is scheduled to start in the next few months,” said Board President Richard Brown.
“We have more land in Grand Terrace and San Bernardino. Our goal is to build four new homes in 2014 and seven new homes in 2015. We are going to need a lot of help to make that happen,” said Brown.
For more information or to volunteer for a home build please call Habitat for Humanity San Bernardino Area at (909) 478-1176.
“We in our new house!” Left to right Steven Jr., Jessica, Aubrey and Steven Espinoza, stand in their fully finished living room for the first time.
About Habitat for Humanity San Bernardino Area, Inc.
Habitat for Humanity San Bernardino Area is the local affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International, a faith-based nonprofit organization that works in partnership with families to strengthen communities and transform lives by building new homes, rehabilitating existing homes, and making affordable home ownership a reality for community members in need.
The Habitat for Humanity ReStore is a deep discounted home improvement store that sells building materials, appliances, home accessories, and furniture. The ReStore accepts donated goods, which are sold to the general public at a fraction of the retail price. All proceeds are used to fund the administration and rehabilitation or construction of Habitat for Humanity homes.
To find out more about Habitat for Humanity, call 909-478-1176 or visit www.HabitatSB.org. We also ask you to LIKE us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/SBReStore.
Habitat for Humanity, San Bernardino Area, Inc. will be the beneficiary of a golf tournament Friday, Nov. 15 at Sierra Lakes Golf Club in Fontana.
(San Bernardino) “This golf tournament provides you an opportunity to enjoy a great day of golf at Sierra Lakes Golf Course, while supporting an organization that is helping many in San Bernardino and the surrounding communities achieve the dream of home ownership,” said Dennis Baxter, executive director of Habitat for Humanity, San Bernardino Area, Inc.
Habitat for Humanity is a faith-based non-profit organization that assists low-income families the ability to own their homes by either building new homes or purchasing and renovating existing homes. Participants not only make mortgage payments on the homes, but also provide “sweat equity” with Habitat for Humanity by helping to actually build or rehabilitate the home they will be moving into.
“The proceeds of the golf tournament will help us recruit and maintain relationships with volunteers, experienced construction workers, suppliers, city and other government agencies and banks,” Baxter said. “This is a collaborative effort to find deserving families, and help them to become productive and active members of the community where they will live.”
Sierra Lakes Golf Club is located at 16600 Club House Drive in Fontana, near Sierra Avenue. The club can be accessed from the 210, 10 or 60 freeways.
Tournament registration begins at 7 a.m. with a shotgun start at 8 a.m. Lunch and an awards ceremony will take place at 1 p.m.
Golfers’ registration is $400 for a foursome or $110 for an individual golfer, and includes lunch. Non-golfers can enjoy lunch for $25.
Habitat for Humanity, San Bernardino Area, Inc., also seeks sponsors for the golf tournament. Sponsorship packages are available from $150 to $5,000.
To register for the golf tournament or a sponsorship, or for more information, go online to www.habitatsb.org, call Dennis Baxter at (909) 478-1176.
Habitat for Humanity also maintains a ReStore, which feature gently used appliances and home renovation items. Not only are ReStore supplies used for Habitat families, they are open to the general public. The ReStore in Redlands specifically benefits Habitat for Humanity, San Bernardino Area, Inc., and is located at 25948 Business Center Drive, Redlands, CA.
The San Bernardino chapter serves San Bernardino County communities between Fontana and Yucaipa, as well as the Mountain Communities of Running Springs, Lake Arrowhead, and Crestline, and the Upper Desert towns of Hesperia, Apple Valley and Victorville. Proceeds from the upcoming golf tournament will allow Habitat for Humanity, San Bernardino Area, Inc. further its mission in the San Bernardino area. The agency currently has plans to build six homes in San Bernardino and Grand Terrace. All will be three-bedroom, two-bath homes with attached two-car garages. The homeowners will be able to add their personal touches on these homes by choosing paint colors and carpeting.
About Habitat for Humanity San Bernardino Area, Inc.
Habitat for Humanity San Bernardino Area is the local affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International, a faith-based nonprofit organization that works in partnership with families to strengthen communities and transform lives by building new homes, rehabilitating existing homes, and making affordable home ownership a reality for community members in need.
The Habitat for Humanity ReStore is a deep discounted home improvement store that sells building materials, appliances, home accessories, and furniture. The ReStore accepts donated goods, which are sold to the general public at a fraction of the retail price. All proceeds are used to fund the administration and rehabilitation or construction of Habitat for Humanity homes.
To find out more about Habitat for Humanity, call 909-478-1176 or visit www.HabitatSB.org. We also ask you to LIKE us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/SBReStore.
“We are looking forward to owning a home that my children can grow up in; a home that is for us, with no problems. We are very thankful and truly appreciative to partner with Habitat for Humanity!” said Steven Espinoza.
(Redlands, CA) The Ribbon Cutting and Dedication, of Habitat for Humanity’s, San Bernardino Area’s newest home in the high desert city of Hesperia is Sunday, October 13th from 2:00 to 5:00 pm.
“After we cut the ribbon, the Espinoza family will move into their new home,” said Dennis Baxter, executive director for Habitat for Humanity.
Chase Bank donated the one-story 1,600 square foot home with three bedrooms and two bathrooms and San Manuel Band of Mission Indians funded the $30,000 rehabilitation of the home.
Steven and Jessica currently live in Colton in a small house that they share with relatives. The house is overcrowded, poorly insulated with no heating, and the septic system is inadequate to handle the number of residents in the house.
Steven and Jessica are the parents of two children, son age 6 and daughter age 2. The Espinoza family is so excited about the prospect of owning their own home. Jessica spends some of her sweat equity hours in the Habitat ReStore!
“We are looking forward to owning a home that my children can grow up in; a home that is for us, with no problems. We are very thankful and truly appreciative to partner with Habitat for Humanity!” said Steven Espinoza.
“The house is a great fit for the four-member Espinoza family. It sits on a half-acre lot great for the kids to play and to entertain family and friends. The front yard is a low maintenance, xeriscape with 150 sq. ft. of grass for the kids to play on,” said Baxter.
The Mission of Habitat for Humanity is to eliminate substandard, poverty housing. “We plan to achieve this mission by providing decent, affordable housing for low-income families by bringing together the necessary volunteers, experienced help, suppliers, city and government agencies, and families to form partnerships in an atmosphere of God’s love for all people,” said Baxter.
Since the affiliate was incorporated in 1992, Habitat for Humanity has built or rehabilitated 25 homes in Redlands, San Bernardino, Fontana, Loma Linda, Colton, Yucaipa, Highland and now Hesperia, delivering housing for more than 100 people.
Habitat for Humanity is not a giveaway program. Selected local families who receive homes must:
Contribute 500 hours of sweat equity by participating in the actual construction of their own house and other Habitat projects
Pay closing costs
Pay a monthly payment of combined mortgage, taxes, and insurance payments, on an interest free loan over 20 – 30 years
For more information or if you would like to attend the Hesperia House Dedication please call Habitat for Humanity San Bernardino Area at (909) 478-1176.
About Habitat for Humanity San Bernardino Area, Inc.
Habitat for Humanity San Bernardino Area is the local affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International, a faith-based nonprofit organization that works in partnership with families to strengthen communities and transform lives by building new homes, rehabilitating existing homes, and making affordable home ownership a reality for community members in need.
The San Bernardino Area affiliate serves the communities of Redlands, Loma Linda, Fontana, San Bernardino, Highland, Yucaipa, Colton, Bloomington, Rialto, Grand Terrace, Mentone, Running Springs, Lake Arrowhead, Hesperia, Apple Valley and Victorville.
The Habitat for Humanity ReStore is a deep discounted home improvement store that sells building materials, appliances, home accessories, and furniture. The ReStore accepts donated goods, which are sold to the general public at a fraction of the retail price. All proceeds are used to fund the administration and rehabilitation or construction of Habitat for Humanity homes.
“I liked the ReStore because of what a positive impact it has on the mission of Habitat for Humanity and I wanted to be a part of that, giving back to the community,” said John Biggs. The over the range microwaves sold for $125 each.
(Redlands, CA) John Biggs is the new ReStore Manager for the San Bernardino Area Habitat for Humanity.
The ReStore is the Habitat for Humanity’s deep discount home improvement store that sells building materials, appliances, home accessories, and gently used furniture to the general public from 23,000 square feet of space in Redlands.
“The ReStore sells the donated items to the general public at a fraction of the retail price,” said Biggs.
All proceeds are used to fund the Habitat for Humanity San Bernardino Area, Inc. efforts to rehabilitate old homes or construction of new homes for needy families.
“We are fortunate to have John Biggs join us at the Habitat for Humanity, ReStore. He knows how to make ReStores work well and he really understands retail sales”, said Dennis Baxter, Executive Director of the San Bernardino Area Habitat for Humanity.
Biggs started his career with Habitat for Humanity in October of 2009 when he joined the Orange County ReStore first as warehouse manager, then assistant store manager, and finally store manager.
“John has four years of experience as a ReStore warehouse manager, assistant manager and manager at the 23,000 square foot Garden Grove and the 16,000 square foot Santa Ana ReStores in Orange County. He really knows this business and how to increase customer service, donations and the look of our store,” said Baxter.
“I did research on the ReStore before they hired me in 2009. I knew Habitat for Humanity built homes but I didn’t know anything about the ReStore. The more I learned, the more the ReStore really caught my attention because of how much the ReStore gives back to the community,” said Biggs.
John Biggs, is the new manager of the Habitat for Humanity ReStore dozens of doors available from just $5 each.
“I liked the ReStore because of what a positive impact it has on the mission of Habitat for Humanity and I wanted to be a part of that, giving back to the community,” he added.
Biggs moved to Upland in 2011 so their family could live in a home instead of an apartment. The family could not afford a home in Orange County. “It was a long commute from Santa Ana to Upland but worth it”, said Biggs. His wife is a student at Mt San Antonio College studying fine arts.
“When I heard of the opportunity to work in the Redlands ReStore I was excited. I asked my executive director if it was ok to apply for the position. She knew how long the commute was so she agreed,” said Biggs.
Now Biggs commute to work is 30 minutes not two hours.
A career in retail began in high school for Biggs. The day he turned 16 he found his first job working at Champ Sports where he worked for two years. “I wanted my own money,” he said.
Biggs has also worked at Footlocker, Olive Garden, and Red Brick Pizza. The pizza parlor was across the street from a high school where they had huge traffic for lunch. It taught Biggs the need for preparation to be able to keep up with the daily lunch rush.
It was at Red Brick Pizza where Biggs earned his first assistant manager position. Then Biggs moved to Game Stop for two years where he worked himself up to store manager.
His last job before the Santa Ana ReStore was three years at Big 5 Sporting Goods as assistant manager. “At Big 5 they really helped me grow as a professional with a lot of training in human resources, merchandising and customer relations,” said Biggs.
“After the birth of his first child and before he joined Habitat, Biggs was a stay at home dad for two months. “That was a real eye opener for me. It’s a lot of work taking care of a new born baby.”
Biggs has implemented new changes at the ReStore. He changed the layout of the store to make products easier to find and gets the new products on the floor as quickly as possible.
Biggs’ is also spending more time asking area businesses and community members for donations for the ReStore. He has secured donations from several local timeshare companies’.
Biggs is changing a few things at the ReStore. The first is to sell used TVs from a TV island in the store with 10 to 15 good used TVs running at all times.
“We get a lot of donated TVs. In the past we recycled them, but we were missing an opportunity. I decided to sell the working TVs and recycle those that don’t work. The new income will help put more families into affordable homes,” said Biggs.
He will also keep running the highly popular “Deal of the Day” and “Deal of the Week”. The deals are available to people that Like the ReStore on FaceBook at www.facebook.com/SBReStore.
Biggs invites do it yourselfers, homeowners, property maintenance professionals, property managers and the public to visit the Habitat for Humanity ReStore Tuesday through Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. at 25948 Business Center Drive in Redlands, CA 92374.
“You will love the deals you find on building materials, appliances, home accessories, and gently used furniture,” said Biggs.
For more information on Habitat for Humanity San Bernardino Area, Inc., or the ReStore call (909) 799-6738 or go online to www.HabitatSB.org.
About Habitat for Humanity San Bernardino Area, Inc.
Habitat for Humanity San Bernardino Area is the local affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International, a faith-based nonprofit organization that works in partnership with families to strengthen communities and transform lives by building new homes, rehabilitating existing homes, and making affordable home ownership a reality for community members in need.
The San Bernardino Area affiliate serves the communities of Redlands, Loma Linda, Fontana, San Bernardino, Highland, Yucaipa, Colton, Bloomington, Rialto, Grand Terrace, Mentone, Running Springs, Lake Arrowhead, Hesperia, Apple Valley and Victorville.
The Habitat for Humanity ReStore is a deep discounted home improvement store that sells building materials, appliances, home accessories, and furniture. The ReStore accepts donated goods, which are sold to the general public at a fraction of the retail price. All proceeds are used to fund the administration and rehabilitation or construction of Habitat for Humanity homes.
What is e-waste? That old laptop in your hall closet, that VCR you haven’t used since you got the new DVD player, the dust-covered monitor in your garage, or cell phone, pager, TV or computer, basically anything with a plug that is unused, obsolete or non-working.
(Redlands, CA) – Do you have old electronics cluttering up your home or office? Habitat for Humanity hosts a free e-waste collection so you can get rid of them responsibly.
Habitat for Humanity host the electronic recycling event on Saturday, September 7, 2013 from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. at the Habitat for Humanity ReStore, 25948 Business Center Dr. in Redlands.
“The event is free and open to anyone who is interested in disposing their e-waste in a safe and secure environment,” said John Biggs, manager of the Habitat for Humanity ReStore.
What is e-waste? That old laptop in your hall closet, that VCR you haven’t used since you got the new DVD player, the dust-covered monitor in your garage, or basically anything with a plug that is unused, obsolete or non-working.
E-waste contains heavy metals such as lead, mercury, chromium, cadmium, and zinc that contaminate our soil and water, and is responsible for 70 percent of all heavy metals found in landfills today. A recent report by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) says e-waste in landfills will grow four-fold over the next five years.
All of the electronics we collect are processed in North America using their processing center and other responsible recycler partner facilities. “Habitat for Humanity makes sure everything they accept and never send anything overseas for processing,” said Biggs.
For your protection the internal memory and hard drives in all computers, cell phones, copy machines, fax machines and printers are shredded or triple wiped.
Habitat for Humanity encourages community and businesses to clean out their garage, storage or attic and donate their old electronics to a good cause.
“Bring all of your old electronics to the Habitat for Humanity ReStore, including: computers, monitors, televisions, printers, mobile phones, laptops, DVD players, VCRs, microwaves, calculators, iPods, cables and wires, telephones, fax machines, scanners, computer parts, and more,” said Biggs.
For those that cannot make it to the event the ReStore accepts e-waste Tuesday through Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. at 25948 Business Center Drive in Redlands, CA 92374.
About Habitat for Humanity San Bernardino Area, Inc.
Habitat for Humanity San Bernardino Area is the local affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International, a faith-based nonprofit organization that works in partnership with families to strengthen communities and transform lives by building new homes, rehabilitating existing homes, and making affordable home ownership a reality for community members in need.
The San Bernardino Area affiliate serves the communities of Redlands, Loma Linda, Fontana, San Bernardino, Highland, Yucaipa, Colton, Bloomington, Rialto, Grand Terrace, Mentone, Running Springs, Lake Arrowhead, Apple Valley and Victorville.
To find out more about Habitat for Humanity, call 909-478-1176 or visit www.HabitatSB.org. We also ask you to LIKE us on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/habitatsb.
Habitat Committee member Teresa Dolan of ESRI came up with idea to build doghouses, and auction them off as a fundraiser at Habitat’s “Journey of Hope” Gala.
For more Information call
Carl Dameron @ (909) 534-9500
(Redlands, CA) Custom-built doghouses are just some of the items up for action at the Habitat for Humanity San Bernardino Area’s Journey of Hope Gala – Building Hope for Veterans on Friday, March 22nd from 5:30pm- 9:00pm at the University Hall in Redlands.
Habitat Committee member Teresa Dolan of ESRI came up with idea to build doghouses, and auction them off as a fundraiser at Habitat’s “Journey of Hope” Gala. Habitat for Humanity’s Executive Director Dennis Baxter and its board of directors thought that it was a splendid idea.
Dolan also made and delivered the first of three doghouses available for auction. Photos of the doghouses can be seen on Habitat for Humanity San Bernardino Area’s Facebook page at www.Facebook.com/habitatsb.
“Funds from the gala supports Habitat for Humanity’s goal of working in partnership with families to eradicate substandard, poverty housing, strengthen communities and transform lives by building new homes, rehabilitating existing homes, and making affordable home ownership a reality for community members in need,” said Baxter.
Funds will also be used to increase rehabilitation and home building of for San Bernardino area Veterans, said Baxter. Habitat for Humanity San Bernardino Area has built 28 homes since its founding in 1992.
According to Baxter, too many veterans have been left homeless by the economic recession, this together with difficulties many soldiers suffer as they return from deployments in Afghanistan and Iraq have really hurt their ability to keep or buy a home for their families.
“Building Hope for Veterans” uses Habitat for Humanity’s proven low-income home buyer tools to make Veteran’s housing affordable. The Habitat model has approved homebuyers that provide 500 hours of work in the construction or rehabilitation of their homes. Our interest free financing make mortgage payments under $500 a month, ensuring that families can keep their homes,” said Baxter.
Fifth District Supervisor, Josie Gonzales is the keynote speaker for Journey of Hope Gala and San Bernardino Mayor and Habitat for Humanity San Bernardino Area founding board member Mayor Pat Morris is the master of ceremonies.
“The gala also honors volunteers and donors who do so much help us accomplish our goals”, said Baxter. He added, “With our wonderful, hard working and dedicated volunteers and donors, Habitat for Humanity San Bernardino Area could not achieve our present success!”
Volunteers from the University of Redlands pose for a photo in the restore
Habitat for Humanity San Bernardino Area is the local affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International, a faith-based nonprofit organization that works in partnership with families to strengthen communities and transform lives by building new homes, rehabilitating existing homes, and making affordable home ownership a reality for community members in need.
Live entertainment for the Gala is provided by The Overeasy, a band dedicated to the groove. Born at the University of Redlands, The Overeasy has been grooving since May of 2009. Drawing from musical styles ranging from rock to funk, they incorporate these influences to produce uniquely original music.
The San Bernardino Area affiliate serves the communities of Redlands, Loma Linda, Fontana, San Bernardino, Highland, Yucaipa, Colton, Bloomington, Rialto, Grand Terrace, Mentone, Running Springs, Lake Arrowhead, Hesperia, Apple Valley and Victorville.
Tickets for the event are $75 per person, $125 a couple and $500 for a table of eight.
For more information call 909-478-1176 or visit www.HabitatSB.org.
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Top Achievements Of Habitat For Humanity San Bernardino Area, Inc.
2011 – 2012 / TWO YEARS
Rehabilitation of Home for Habitat Family in partnership with the City of Yucaipa and Kivett-Teeters Real Estate, Inc.
Critical repair of home belonging to a Veteran in Partnership with the Home Depot Foundation.
Eleven “Brush with Kindness” projects resulting in the painting/facelift of 11 homes in Fontana.
Partnered with the “Inland Caregiver Resource Center” on the installation of three handicapped ramps for a senior citizen in the City of San Bernardino.
Opened a 24-thousand square foot home improvement retail location open to the public called the ReStore, under Habitat for Humanity International guidelines.
Partnered with the City of Grand Terrace and The San Manuel Band of Mission Indians Community Outreach on preparation for two Habitat “Builds” within the City. Engineering plans, soils investigation, architectural renderings, publication notice and topographic surveys accomplished.
Four buildable lots in the City of San Bernardino previously donated by the Baker Estate. Engineering plans, topographic survey, and soil investigation completed.
Six Families chosen by our “Family Selection Committee” for four builds in San Bernardino and two in Grand Terrace.
We have recently been approved to participate in the National Community Stabilization Trust program. “NCST” facilitates the transfer of foreclosed and abandoned properties from financial institutions to housing organizations to promote productive property reuse and neighborhood stability.
Electronic recycling in partnership with “ALL Green”. Ongoing project to keep electronic waste from going into landfills. Over 60-thousand pounds recycled in the last year alone.
Active participation in the “Cars for Homes” program in which automobiles are donated to Habitat for Humanity, recycled with funds going to HFH San Bernardino Area, Inc.
Partnered with “Grid Alternatives” to provide and install solar panels for Habitat Homeowners at no charge with the goal of lowering energy costs for the Homeowner.
Succeeded in receiving funding for a new Box truck from the Weingart Foundation.
For more Information call
Carl Dameron @ (909) 534-9500
(Redlands, CA) Contractor and former talk show host of Construction Zone Radio on KVCR Matt Le Vesquerecently spoke to 20 people on How To Choose A Contractor at the Habitat for Humanity ReStore recently in Redlands. Here is his presentation:
First, make sure the Home Inspector has a license. Why? Because if he does, he will also have a license bond. That means that if you end up in a dispute, you will have a chance to collect on the bond (up to $12,500) if the contractor flakes out. Also, generally, it means the contractor presumably knows enough to pass a licensing test.
Second, do some homework on the contractor. Go online to see if the license matches his story. “Contractors” have been known to use other people’s licenses or maybe “forget” to mention that they have a long list of consumer complaints.
I can’t begin to tell you all the horror stories I’ve heard or written reports about.
Third, check some references. Naturally, if you ask anyone for a reference they aren’t going to have you call their worst customer, right? So, go beyond calling the friends and relatives of the person you’re planning to let into your house.
Ask contractors what they’ve been working on the last several months and call those people. Recent past is much more predictive of the near future, right?
Fourth, get it in writing. A home improvement contract is a very detailed document that should be several to dozens of pages. There should be a complete description of the work and lots of details. If there are plans, they should be professionally prepared and approved by the local building department. And no licensed contractor should tell you that permits are not required. They should be able to prove they’re not required.
Fifth, don’t hear what you want to hear. This goes hand-in-hand with number four. Someone may appeal to your more frugal side (cheapness) by telling you that you can save money by not getting plans, permits or inspections. As far as I’m concerned, that’s akin to selling or receiving stolen property. If you want a “deal” like that, be prepared to pay the consequences. Chances are very good that you’re being conned.
That leads to number six, which is all about money. I wouldn’t go with the cheapest bid. There’s usually a reason they’re cheap and I also suggest being careful about keeping work in line with payments. I don’t recommend giving down payments and will only make a payment when a major milestone or inspection is complete. Basically, if it doesn’t seem right, ask more questions.
Number seven is the most important item: Communicate. Have an open and honest, business-oriented communication. You’re not pals or buddies. You’re not a shoulder to cry on and neither is the contractor. Keep it professional and you will generally get professional results. If you get to be friends after the job, that’s great too.
About Habitat for Humanity San Bernardino Area, Inc.
Habitat for Humanity San Bernardino Area is the local affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International, a faith-based nonprofit organization that works in partnership with families to strengthen communities and transform lives by building new homes, rehabilitating existing homes, and making affordable home ownership a reality for community members in need.
The San Bernardino Area affiliate serves the communities of Redlands, Loma Linda, Fontana, San Bernardino, Highland, Yucaipa, Colton, Bloomington, Rialto, Grand Terrace, Mentone, Running Springs, Lake Arrowhead, Apple Valley and Victorville.
To find out more about Habitat for Humanity, call 909-478-1176 or visit www.HabitatSB.org. We also ask you to LIKE us on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/habitatsb.
