From Foundations
to Futures

Celebrating 35 Years of Building A Stronger Community

A Note from Our CEO

Dear Friends,

As we celebrate our 35th anniversary at Greater Matthews Habitat for Humanity, I am filled with gratitude and pride for all we’ve accomplished together. This milestone reflects the years spent building homes, the lives we’ve touched, and the communities we’ve strengthened. Our journey over the past three and a half decades has been marked by growth, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to providing safe, affordable housing.

Our affiliate has evolved significantly from its early days as a builder of single-story, single-family homes. We’ve expanded our approach to include multi-story homes and even our first-ever duplex, allowing us to serve more families while making the best use of limited land resources. In addition to diversifying our construction efforts, we have also expanded our programs to meet the growing needs of our community. In 2019, we launched the Critical Home Repair program to address essential health and safety repairs for low-income homeowners, as exemplified by Ms. M's story, which highlights the transformative power of a safe home. With the introduction of Rock the Block this year, we are further enhancing our impact through community-focused revitalization efforts. These shifts reflect our commitment to adapting and growing in response to the changing needs of our community.

This year, we completed construction on our 117th and 118th homes—a duplex which embodies our ongoing commitment to innovative construction and expanding homeownership opportunities. Our New Construction Program remains a cornerstone of our mission, but as land becomes scarcer, we are exploring alternative financing models and multi-family housing projects to serve even more families.

Volunteers remain at the heart of our work. In fiscal year 2024, 240 volunteers donated over 8,500 hours of their time, demonstrating the collective effort that drives our mission forward. Their contributions, whether in construction or ReStore operations, continue to strengthen our community.

Looking ahead, land acquisition remains a critical challenge, especially with rising costs. Donations of real estate and continued financial support are vital as we work to secure the resources needed to build more affordable homes. Your partnership and generosity make this work possible, and I am deeply grateful for your ongoing commitment.

As we reflect on 35 years of service, I am reminded that our mission is not just about building houses—it’s about building hope, stability, and a brighter future for all. Together, we have laid a strong foundation, and with your support, we will continue to build on it for many years to come.

Thank you for being an essential part of our journey.

Natisha Rivera-Patrick

President & CEO

FY 2024

new construction

Our New Construction program collaborates with low to moderate-income families to buy homes built by Habitat.

2

homes built

57

mortgages open

3

mortgages paid off

130

construction volunteers

4878

construction volunteer hours

240 8555

total volunteers

total volunteer hours

volunteers

Local community members donate their time and their talents to build, advocate, and raise awareness of the need for affordable housing.

17

volunteer groups

critical home repairs

Our Critical Home Repair program assists low-income homeowners with essential, cost-free repairs that improve health and safety.

20

homes repaired

serving

48

individuals

14

children

13

seniors

rock the block

Rock the Block enhances neighborhoods through essential exterior maintenance and landscaping which boosts health, community vibrancy, and property values.

13

homes rocked

70

RtB Volunteers

7

RtB Volunteer Groups

224

RtB Volunteer Hours

funding sources

ReStore

The Greater Matthews Habitat for Humanity ReStore is a public discount retail and donation center selling new and used goods to support affordable housing projects, while also diverting tons of waste from landfills, thereby reducing pollution and saving resources.

4002

donations

16710

transactions

49570

items sold

$63.87

average sale

97

ReStore Volunteers

3249

ReStore volunteer hours

Our Three Housing Initiatives

Building Blocks for the Future

At Greater Matthews Habitat for Humanity (GMHFH), our mission to create safe, affordable housing extends beyond building new homes. This year, we are proud to introduce three core initiatives: Homeownership, Aging in Place, and Home Preservation. These programs are integral to our mission, targeting different facets of the affordable housing crisis and setting long-term goals for financial stability, community engagement, and improved health.

Each initiative is designed to meet the diverse needs of our community, ensuring everyone has a decent place to live, regardless of their circumstances. By addressing specific challenges through Homeownership, Aging in Place, and Home Preservation, we adopt a holistic approach to housing that fosters long-term stability, economic growth, and stronger community ties. These initiatives are essential in helping us build a more resilient community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

Homeownership

Our Homeownership initiative remains at the heart of GMHFH’s efforts. By collaborating with limited-income families, we help them purchase homes built by Greater Matthews Habitat. This initiative not only provides families with safe and affordable housing but also empowers them through property equity and financial stability. Homeownership fosters a sense of pride and investment in the community, leading to improved education, civic engagement, and health outcomes. It creates a foundation for families to build brighter futures and contributes to the overall stability and vibrancy of our neighborhoods.

Our Homeownership Initiative is driven by our New Construction Program, which has been at the heart of our efforts since 1989. Over the years, we've built 118 homes in the Greater Matthews community. While our focus has traditionally been on one-story, single-family homes within Matthews town limits, we've recently expanded our approach by developing 4 two-story homes and our first-ever duplex. This shift allows us to serve more families while making the most of our limited land resources.

Looking ahead, we plan to further diversify our construction portfolio with more multi-family projects. We're also exploring alternative financing models and innovative strategies to expand homeownership opportunities, such as serving as a lender in the private market or providing down payment assistance to help more families achieve their dream of owning a home.

Home Preservation

Our Home Preservation initiative is essential for maintaining the existing affordable housing stock and preventing displacement. By providing support for necessary repairs and upkeep, we empower homeowners to maintain their homes and their ability to access affordable housing. This initiative addresses necessary maintenance issues, from minor exterior repairs through our Rock the Block program up to severe, life-threatening needs through our Critical Home Repair program. Home Preservation helps combat gentrification, boosts property values, and fosters community cohesion, ensuring that neighborhoods remain vibrant and inclusive.

Since the the implementation of our Critical Home Repair program in 2019, we have addressed a wide range of needs, from repairing roofs and fixing plumbing issues to enhancing accessibility for members of our community. In 2023, we also hosted our first-ever Rock the Block event, which brought together groups of volunteers to assist even more homeowners with exterior maintenance and landscaping.

Looking ahead, we are committed to expanding the reach of our Home Preservation Initiative to assist even more families in need and plan to explore new funding sources and community partnerships to increase our capacity for repairs and upgrades.

Aging in Place

The Aging in Place initiative focuses on helping older adults and individuals with disabilities make essential home modifications. By installing handrails, ramps, and widening doorways, we enhance their living environments, ensuring safety, ease of movement, and comfort. This initiative is crucial for maintaining the dignity and independence of our seniors, allowing them to stay in their familiar homes and communities. Aging in Place not only improves physical and mental health but also prevents the displacement of older individuals from affordable homes, ensuring they have a safe and secure place to live as they age.

Since its inception, the Aging in Place Initiative has completed 24 accessibility modifications, including installing handrails, ramps, and accessible bathrooms. These modifications not only improve the quality of life for our aging neighbors but also prevent accidents and health issues that can arise from living in homes that no longer meet their needs

As we look to the future, we are committed to expanding this program to serve even more members of our community. We aim to explore new partnerships and funding opportunities that will allow us to adapt and grow in our abilities to serve more households.

These three initiatives are integral to GMHFH’s mission of transforming lives and communities through affordable housing solutions. Each initiative addresses specific challenges faced by different segments of our community, ensuring that our support is comprehensive and impactful. By focusing on Homeownership, Aging in Place, and Home Preservation, we create a holistic approach to housing that fosters long-term stability, economic growth, and community engagement. These initiatives help us build a stronger, more resilient community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive in a safe, decent, and affordable home.

Agency Timeline

A Look Through 35 Years

In our agency’s first ten years, approximately 30 homes were built by volunteers that included faith partners who are still building with us today:

Sardis Presbyterian, St. Stephen United Methodist, Matthews United Methodist, and Matthews Presbyterian.

1980s

1989

We receive incorporation as a nonprofit organization on July 10, 1989. A person earning the federal minimum wage of $3.35 per hour would need to work 102.5 hours per week to afford a $446/month 2-bedroom apartment in the Charlotte Metro area.

1990s

1990

Our first two homes are built in Fullwood Trace thanks to donations from Church of the Saviour and Sardis Presbyterian Church.

1992

We tithe $10,000 to Habitat para La Humanidad Bolivia to build 6 homes.

historical billboard from "Matthews Habitat Week"

1991

Habitat for Humanity International celebrates its 15th anniversary by building 1,500 homes nationwide, including one in Matthews from July 14th-21st. The Matthews Town Council, who are participating in the construction, proclaim it "Matthews Habitat Week."

1993

1995

Fourteen members of the Habitat Matthews team visit Bolivia to build homes in the village of Nueva Canaan.

We hire our first staff member, Laura Albanese, as our part-time Executive Director. We also open our Habitat Store at its original 2,000-square-foot location on East Charles St., which includes space for offices.

1999

2000

We build our first home in Rainbow Ridge. A person earning the federal minimum wage of $5.15 per hour would need to work 100.5 hours per week to afford a $672/month 2-bedroom apartment in the Charlotte Metro area.

We build our first home in Tank Town.

2000s

2001

HFHI Founder, Millard Fuller visits to dedicate a home we built with 300 volunteers and 1,500 teens from around the world who are visiting Mecklenburg County for the National Association of Student Councils.

2009

We build our first home in Sunrise Crossing.

2010s

We dedicate our 100th home!

2013

2010

We adopt eco-friendly construction models and achieve LEED certification. A person earning the federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour would need to work 86.5 hours per week to afford a $807/month 2-bedroom apartment in the Charlotte Metro area.

2015

2017

Natisha Rivera-Patrick becomes President & CEO of Greater Matthews Habitat for Humanity, implementing a new strategic vision for our organization

Our affiliate experiences a year of significant changes! We expand our service area from just Matthews to include both Mint Hill and the Mecklenburg County side of Stallings. Reflecting this growth, we rebrand from Habitat Matthews to Greater Matthews Habitat. Additionally, we relocate our ReStore from its original 2,000 sq./ft. space on East Charles St. to its current 10,000 sq./ft. location on East John St.

2020s

2020

We build our first-ever multi-story home!

2024

We roll out our three core initiatives: Homeownership, Aging in Place, and Home Preservation. These initiatives set our overarching goals and objectives, focusing on long-term impacts such as financial stability, community engagement, and improved health. A person earning the federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour would need to work 165 hours per week to afford a $1,554/month

2-bedroom apartment in the Charlotte Metro area.

2019

We launch a new Critical Home Repair program dedicated to providing essential repairs that impact the health and safety of existing homeowners. This initiative allows us to serve more families while preserving the affordability of the existing housing stock.

2023

Another huge year for our affiliate! We start building our first duplex home and strengthen partnerships with local governments. We partner with the Town of Mint Hill to fund our Critical Home Repair program, and the Town of Matthews supports us with a $500,000 donation—the largest in our history. We also implement a new Rock the Block program which mobilizes volunteers to provide essential exterior home repairs and beautification for neighborhoods in need, fostering community pride and cohesion.

Restoring a Legacy

Home Preservation & Aging in Place through Critical Home Repair

“The changes are incredible. I don’t have to worry about trying to step over into the bathtub. Now I can take a bath without fear. I don’t worry about tripping anymore. It’s like I have a new home.”

Ms. M has lived in her family’s home in Matthews for decades, a place filled with memories and deep emotional ties. The house was given to Ms. M’s father when she was a child, by his employer, with one condition: that he pay to have it relocated from where it was on the employer’s property on Sardis Rd. to her father’s land close to downtown Matthews. The house was split into two pieces, transported, and then reassembled where it is today.

Over the years, Ms. M and her family have poured love into the home, making it a central part of their lives. However, as time passed, the house began to show signs of serious wear and tear. The foundation was shifting, the floors were uneven, and the bathroom had become inaccessible. For Ms. M, who was determined to stay in the home where she had been raised and where she raised her own children, these issues were not just inconvenient—they were dangerous. “I was scared I’d trip and fall,” she recalls, “I’m scared to even take a bath.”

Ms. M knew that in order to continue living in her home and eventually pass it down to her family, she would need to make some significant repairs. But with limited financial resources, she was at a loss for how to proceed. First, she applied for a mortgage to pay for the repairs. But due to the home’s condition, it didn’t qualify. “That was absolutely heartbreaking,” she said when she received the rejection letter from the bank. “I felt so defeated. I didn’t know what to do.”

Then, a cousin told her about Greater Matthews Habitat for Humanity and encouraged her to apply for help. With some hope and a lot of uncertainty, Ms. M submitted her application. To her surprise and relief, she soon received a call from Jeffrey, our Senior Manager of Housing Services, who set up a home visit. “Before I knew it, I was qualified for the Critical Home Repair Program,” Ms. M says.

Thanks to this program, Ms. M’s home underwent a much-needed transformation. We were able to repair the foundation, install new flooring throughout the house, and remodel the bathroom with an accessible shower, new toilet, and new vanity. The kitchen also received new flooring and cabinets, and a new exterior door was installed.

The changes are incredible,” Ms. M says. “I don’t have to worry about trying to step over into the bathtub. Now I can take a bath without fear. I don’t worry about tripping anymore. It’s like I have a new home.”

Ms. M’s story is a testament to the impact of community support and the importance of safe, affordable housing. Reflecting on her hopes for the future, Ms. M shares, “I want this house to remain a part of our family, a place where we can all gather and feel safe. Thanks to Habitat, I know it will be.”

Restoring Ms. M’s home is not just about fixing a building; it’s about preserving a legacy, honoring the past, and creating a safe and dignified space for the future.

6.8 million households in the U.S.

report difficulty navigating or using their homes

4.2 million households

report difficulty entering their home

3.2 million households

report difficulty using their kitchen

3.3 million households

report difficulty using their bathroom

Only 1 out 10 homes are “aging ready”

with a step-free entryway, a bedroom and bathroom on the first floor, and at least one bathroom accessibility feature.

Rock the Block

Community-driven restoration and preservation - one neighborhood at a time.

Our Rock the Block program is a new community effort that first started during fiscal year 2024, designed to bring together volunteers, homeowners, and local partners to revitalize neighborhoods through essential exterior repairs and beautification projects. As part of our Aging in Place and Home Preservation initiatives, this program focuses on improving the curb appeal and livability of homes in targeted areas, fostering a sense of pride and unity among residents while delivering broader community benefits.

We proudly hosted our first-ever Rock the Block event on Saturday, September 23rd, 2023, in the Rainbow Ridge neighborhood in Matthews, where volunteers worked diligently to elevate the area. Building on this success, we held another Rock the Block in Mint Hill on April 23rd, 2024, further extending our reach and impact. Since its inception, Rock the Block has brought together 70 volunteers from 7 corporate, civic, and faith volunteer groups to complete work on 13 homes, providing services such as painting, landscaping, and minor repairs.

The benefits of Rock the Block extend far beyond immediate visual improvements:

Community Safety and Cleanliness: A cleaner neighborhood helps deter crime and promotes safety.

Increased Property Values: Improvements and beautification efforts can raise property values, benefiting homeowners financially.

Community Unity: Events like these bring residents together, fostering a sense of pride and collective
purpose.

Quality of Life: A well-maintained neighborhood boosts the daily lives of its residents, making it a more enjoyable place to live.

Team Building: The initiative offers a great opportunity for team building among neighbors, community groups, and corporate teams.

As we move forward, we are excited to continue expanding the Rock the Block program to reach even more neighborhoods in need. We plan to strengthen our partnerships with local businesses, community organizations, and municipalities to increase the impact of our efforts. Our next Rock the Block event is planned for early November, where we look forward to bringing together even more volunteers and partners to continue building stronger, more connected communities. Rock the Block embodies our belief that small changes can make a big difference, and together, we can create lasting positive change in the places we call home.

Thank you to your FY24 Volunteers

Brian Beavers
Marsha Brooks
Timothy Elleby

Brian Fanelli

Board of Directors

LaShonda Hart

Clonnie Lambert

Joseph Salicco

Wayne Smith

Dave Weaver
Molly Zostant

Marty Blank
Chick Byrd
Nate Clements
Joseph Culpepper
Drew Foppe
Lee Goldstein
Ed Grant

Building Committee

Joe Hardesty
Kath Lebedz
Jack Locke

Ralph Messera
Jack Miller
Dan O’Brien
Walter Parmelee

Jeff Penwell
Dick Puryear
Robert Sharpe
Wayne Smith
Ben Wilson
Jeff Wilson

Homeowner Selection Committee

Susan Ralko

Aimee Reichert

Glenn Wynn

ReStore Lead Volunteers

Howard Adams
Marty Blank
Steve Bunker
Jennifer Cammeyer
Clay Campbell

Zoe Elmore
Laurie Engstrom

Nick Graham
Cindy Guthrie
Dave Guthrie

Dean Jacobsen
John McHan
Sandy McRae
Natalie Morgan
Brett Webster

2x4 Crew

Harold Dunning

Ed Ernst

Bud Moore

Decon Crew

Ralph Riley

Chester Lewis

Admin Volunteers

Danielle Webb