Young professionals build framework for new Habitat for Humanity chapter

Ben Rathbun was looking for a cause he could build on. He found it through Habitat for Humanity.
 
In January, Rathbun worked with Habitat leadership in the Capital Region to bring a Habitat Young Professionals chapter to Greater Lansing. Rathbun will serve as the HYP chair, while recruiting young professionals who want to get involved.
 
Rathbun says that while Lansing has many great organizations for people early in their careers, most are oriented toward business networking. The new chapter of Habitat, he says, creates a positive outlet for young professionals to get involved, develop leadership skills, and give back to the community while building their network at the same time. In addition, the new chapter helps broaden the volunteer base for Habitat, since many of Habitat's current volunteers come from an older demographic.
 
"The older volunteers in Habitat have a wealth of knowledge that young professionals can appreciate and learn from," says Rathbun. "These young professionals have the capacity to serve as leaders, volunteers, advocates and donors in the community."
 
Habitat for Humanity Capital Region builds and sells homes to people in need of decent and affordable housing in Ingham County. Habitat for Humanity Capital Region is part of a global non-profit housing organization, and has served more than 800 families throughout its 28-year history in greater Lansing.
 
Rathbun says the young professional affiliate is hoping to help more families by focusing projects on neighborhood revitalization projects rather than single dwellings.
 
"We'll redo siding, fix windows and porches, paint, that sort-of thing," says Rathbun. "Instead of just doing one house, we'll be looking to do entire blocks."
 
The Habitat Young Professionals Chapter will be holding a launch party on April 20, 2016 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at the Lansing Brewing Company. People interested in learning more about the fledging chapter or to volunteer may attend or email Rathbun here.
 
"We hope to inspire, mobilize and connect young professionals," says Rathbun. "You don't need to be handy or have any construction skills since Habitat works with a team of licensed contractors who will help us. If you can hold a paintbrush, you can join."
 
Source: Ben Rathbun, Chapter Chair, Habitat Young Professionals Chapter
Writer: Ann Kammerer, News Editor
 
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