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ALPENA — Habitat for Humanity Northeast Michigan (Habitat NEMI) has officially released “Our Calling,” a new organizational declaration of purpose to address housing need across Alcona, Alpena, Montmorency, Oscoda, and Presque Isle counties.

Titled “We Build More Than Houses,” the document highlights the unique challenges of serving a vast, highly rural 6,630-square-mile territory — the largest geographic Habitat affiliate footprint in the United States. It reflects a movement, not a single organization: Habitat staff, volunteers, donors, neighbors, businesses, faith communities, and community partners working together toward a Northeast Michigan where every family has a safe, stable place to call home.

In a region where affordable housing options are limited, Habitat NEMI — alongside its growing network of community partners — is actively working to change that reality. The organization currently builds 8 to 10 new affordable homes annually and serves more than 65 families each year through critical, life-saving home repairs.

“There are so many families out there who just need the hand up that we can provide,” said Jonathan Reckford, CEO of Habitat for Humanity International. “How are you helping to create a Beloved Community with opportunity for all?”

“Our Calling” outlines four pillars of community action:

– New Construction: Building affordable, quality homes in partnership with local families to establish generational stability.

– Critical Home Repairs: Preserving existing housing stock by addressing health hazards and safety risks.

– Accessibility Modifications: Constructing ramps and modifying homes for seniors and residents with disabilities — preserving independence and offering a vital alternative to premature nursing home placement.

– ReStore: Funding regional operations by selling donated building materials and home goods, directly reinvesting the proceeds back into local neighborhoods.

Homeownership through Habitat NEMI is earned, not given. Every applicant completes certified financial counseling and homeownership education classes, arriving at the closing table prepared and invested in their future.

A stable home serves as the foundation for broader community health: children thrive in school, seniors maintain independent lives, and families build long-term financial roots. Every home built or repaired is an act of community preservation.

Habitat NEMI invites residents, volunteers, businesses, clubs, organizations and faith partners to join in the important work of continuing to provide housing for those in need, right here in Northeast Michigan.

To learn about volunteering, donating funds or items, supporting an upcoming build, or participating in an upcoming community event, call Habitat NEMI at 989-354-5555 or visit habitatnemi.org. For the latest updates, visit the Habitat for Humanity Northeast Michigan Facebook page or the ReStore Alpena, Habitat for Humanity NEMI Facebook page.