Working together to build a brighter tomorrow

First we would like to thank our sponsors of the event -- Chrysler of Culpeper, Rappahannock Electric Coop, Dominion Power, and Swift Corporation.

We would also like to express our thanks to those who provided door prizes and goods for the meeting -- Wal-Mart, Raven's Nest, Pepperberries, Frost Café, Safeway of Culpeper, It's About Thyme, Giant of Warrenton, IHOP, Safeway of Warrenton, County Cookin of Culpeper and Warrenton, Martins, Susan Ellsworth, Culpeper Petroleum Coop, Orange-Madison Coop, Digital Caffeine, Lowes, Hair Cuttery, Warrenton Coop, Hair Quarters (Lake of Woods) and Bloom of Warrenton.

We are also grateful to Culpeper Presbyterian Church for the use of their facility.

We had about 40 folks in attendance including some of our faithful past volunteers, previous board members, new volunteers, those interested in applying for a home, and some local business folks interested in partnering with us in the future. We spent the first ½ hour socializing and enjoying fresh donuts from Knakel's Bakery and fresh fruit trays. Thanks to Linda Perry, Janet Hyler, and Harriet Poulos from Alum Spring Baptist Church for setting up and serving the food.

The meeting started at 9:30. We first watched a 10 minute video celebrating the last two homes we built. We then recognized our current board members and Thanked our previous board members in attendance. Then we discussed what Habitat is all about and the history of our affiliate. From there we talked about our committees and what opportunities are available to get involved. Next we rolled out our plans for 2010 including building a new home in Griffinsburg and starting a refurbish project.

Next we shared our criteria for the home owner selection process and discussed how to apply for a Habitat home. Then we finished up with a short presentation on "A Brush with Kindness" which is a Habitat refurbish project that was implemented in Prince William County in 2007 and they have repaired 30+ homes.

Then we handed out the many door prizes donated by local businesses. No one went home empty handed.

We also collected a trunk full of food for the Culpeper Food Closet. Thanks to those who attended the meeting. The food bank was very appreciative especially since the Thanksgiving Holiday was quickly approaching.

We are looking for a family for our next house in Griffinsburg so if you are interested in applying or know somebody who you think may qualify, drop us an email or call the office (829-6947) for a guideline and home interest form. We will also try to get it up on our website soon.

We also need help on all of our committees such as Construction, Fund Raising, Publicity, Church Relations, Family Selection, Family Nurturing, Finance, Site Selection, and Volunteer so if are interested in helping, Please contact us. There is much more to Habitat than just pounding nails.

We also now have T-Shirts ($15), Polo Shirts ($20), Hats ($15), Tote bags ($15), and Nail Aprons ($10) for sale all with the Habitat for Humanity of Culpeper logo just in time for your Christmas gift giving. All proceeds will be used to help fund our next house build.

We are a 501c3 non-profit organization... just incase you would like to make a year-end tax-deductible donation. Thanks.