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What you may not know about loans, money and credit A good credit report and credit score influence your ability to get a loan, qualify for a home mortgage, and, even, land a job. Your credit score plays a crucial role in determining your financial health. Have you ever asked yourself: “How can I improve my credit score?” or “How can I get a better interest rate on my mortgage?” If you have, then read on. With the right strategies and discipline, you can learn how to boost your score and pave the way to a much more comfortable financial future. What is a good credit score? A credit score of 700 or higher is considered good or desirable by lenders, according to the credit bureau Experian. Above 800 is excellent. For most Americans, the norm falls between 600 and 750 but in 2022, during the pandemic, the average FICO® Score – a model used by 90% of lenders to determine if a borrower is likely to repay a loan – fell to 714. Credit scores are now once again on the rise. If your score is below 700, you may still qualify for a home mortgage and some credit cards. More on that to come. How are credit scores calculated? It is essential to understand what a credit score is and how it's calculated so that you don’t accidentally lower yours by making, what may seem like, very reasonable and sensible financial decisions. Your credit score is determined by the following: 1.         Payment History: This accounts for the largest portion of your score and reflects whether you've made timely payments on your credit accounts. 2.         Credit-to-Debt Ratio: This is the ratio of your credit card balances to your credit limits. To calculate your credit-to-debt ratio, also known as credit-utilization ratio, add up the credit limits of all of your credit cards and your credit card balances. Divide your total credit limit, or the total credit that is available to you, by the amount of debt on all of your accounts. That is your credit-to-debt ratio. The lower the better, but under 30% is the target. 3.         Length of Credit History: The longer your credit history, the better. It shows lenders that you have experience managing credit over time. 4.         Types of Credit: Having a mix of credit accounts, such as credit cards and installment loans, such as car loans and student loans or mortgages, can positively impact your credit score. 5.         New Credit Inquiries: Opening multiple new credit accounts within a brief period can temporarily lower your score as it may indicate financial distress. Where can I find out my credit score for free? And can I monitor my credit report for free? Yes and yes! Every 12 months, by law, you can get a free credit report from each of the three credit bureaus – Experian, Equifax and TransUnion. Request your free credit reports online, by phone, or by mail. Only AnnualCreditReport.com is authorized to fill orders for the free annual credit reports that you are entitled o by law. You will get a free report from AnnualCreditReport.com, but not your credit score. There are other options for getting your credit score and credit monitoring for free. Ask your bank or credit card companies if they offer free credit-monitoring services to their customers. Some will notify you if there are changes to your credit report, if new accounts are opened in your name or if significant changes to your credit score occur. Credit Karma offers free access to your credit scores and reports from Equifax and TransUnion only, as well as credit-monitoring services, including alerts about the opening of new accounts, credit inquiries, and potential identity theft. Signing up for Credit Karma is quick and easy, making it a convenient option. Some of its services are free and some are paid. Credit Sesame offers similar services. By law, you are also legally entitled to a free credit report from AnnualCreditReport.com when the following happen: You’re denied credit, employment, insurance, or experience a negative ramification from information in your credit report. You must ask for your report within 60 days of being notified of such an incident You’re out of work and plan to look for a job within 60 days You’re getting public assistance Your credit report is inaccurate because of identity theft or other fraud You have a fraud alert on your credit file How can I improve my credit score? Great question!!! Let's explore some ways to boost your credit score: Check your credit report regularly Remember AnnualCreditReport.com. Get your Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion reports and review them carefully for inaccuracies, including credit information and personal history, as well as fraudulent activity. Report any errors. Make timely payments Your payment history is the most significant factor influencing your credit score, so it's crucial to pay your bills on time, every time. Set up automatic payments or reminders to ensure you never miss a due date. Even one overdue payment can have a significant negative impact on your score. Missing a mortgage payment is considered a major credit-score killer. Avoid that at all costs. Reduce credit card balances Keeping your credit-to-debt ratio low demonstrates responsible credit management to banks and other lenders. Aim for under 30%. If possible, pay down your credit card balances aggressively to lower your ratio and to save money on interest payments. Maintain one credit card with a zero balance If you’ve worked hard to pay off a credit card and now have a zero balance, congrats. Don’t close that account because, if you do, you will likely see your credit score drop. You’ve just increased your credit-to-debt ratio. Yes, you lowered your debt but you’ve also lowered your total access to credit– making you seem more cash strapped to lenders. Instead, put the card away and don’t use it. Better yet, cut up the card so you aren’t tempted. Also, the length of your credit history matters. Older accounts show longevity. Keeping these accounts open can improve your score for several reasons. Avoid opening too many new accounts While it's essential to have a diverse credit mix, opening multiple new credit accounts within a short period can signal financial instability to lenders. Don’t open new credit cards just before you apply for a mortgage or other installment loan. In fact, don’t apply for more credit or make any major purchases until you have the keys to your new home or car in your hand. Even after being approved, the bank can reverse their decision to loan you money – up until the moment your loan closes. This has happened to some very shocked and disappointed homebuyers. Build Credit If you're new to credit or have a limited credit history, consider alternative credit-building tools, such as secured credit cards or credit-builder loans. This form of credit can help establish or rebuild your history. You may also benefit from being added as an authorized user to an existing account (a parent or spouse’s credit card). Then, as your family member builds credit (by using that credit card and paying it off) so do you. Credit cards, when used strategically, can help you become more attractive to lenders, earn points, and get free stuff. Knowing how to pick the right credit card is key. Improving your credit score is a gradual process that requires patience and persistence. Stay disciplined with your credit habits, and over time, you'll see your credit score improve. What credit score do I need to buy a house? While different types of loans may have varying criteria, there are general thresholds that can help you gauge where you stand in the qualifying process. Conventional Loans: These are loans not insured or guaranteed by the government. A credit score of at least 620 is typically required to qualify. Banks often offer more favorable interest rates and terms to lenders with a score of 740 or higher. Buying a Habitat home requires a minimum credit score of 620. FHA Loans: Backed by the Federal Housing Administration, FHA loans are popular among first-time homebuyers due to their more lenient credit requirements. While FHA lenders may consider borrowers with credit scores as low as 500, a score of 580 or higher is usually needed to qualify for the minimum down payment of 3.5%. If your score is between 500 and 579, you may still qualify but will need to make a down payment of at least 10%. VA Loans: These loans offer competitive terms to eligible veterans, active-duty service members, and certain surviving spouses. They often do not require a minimum credit score, but most lenders prefer borrowers with a score of at least 620 to qualify for a VA loan. USDA Loans: Designed to assist low- to moderate-income homebuyers in rural areas, USDA loans also have flexible credit requirements. While there is no official minimum credit score, most lenders look for scores of 640 or higher. If I have a  good credit score, is that enough to get a home mortgage? While your credit score and credit history are crucial factors, mortgage lenders also consider your income, employment history, debt-to-income ratio, and down payment amount. So while a high credit score and strong credit history is not all you need, that can compensate for weaknesses in other areas. If you have a lower score, however, you may be required to show more qualifications in other areas. How can I correct an error on my credit report? Mistakes on credit reports are most commonly found in personal information (Look for misspellings, wrong addresses and outdated information), account details (Check for accounts that don't belong to you, duplicate accounts and incorrect balances) and fraudulent activity, including unauthorized accounts and inquiries resulting from identity theft. Report inaccuracies immediately to the credit bureau listing the error. All three – Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion – provide the ability to do this on their websites, via phone or mail. Be prepared by compiling support information to prove your case, such as billing statements, account statements or correspondence with creditors. Credit bureaus have 30 days to investigate and respond to your dispute, but stay on it – following up regularly to ensure your dispute is being reviewed. If the error involves a specific creditor or lender, it may be simpler to notify them directly. They are required to investigate the dispute and report their findings back to the credit bureau. When the investigation is complete, review the findings of the credit bureau, and request a free copy of your updated credit report to verify changes have been made. You have the option to add a consumer statement to your credit report if the error is not corrected despite your efforts. The statement allows you to explain your side of the story and provide context for future creditors. How can I protect myself against identify theft? Should I put a lock on my credit? You can put a lock, also called a freeze, on your credit report. It will restrict access to the report and make it more difficult for identity thieves to open new accounts in your name. So, if you suspect identify theft, locking your credit report is a good safeguard. Here's how it works: Initiate a freeze by contacting each of the three major credit bureaus individually. You can usually do this online, by phone, or by mail. Each bureau will provide you with a unique PIN or password that you'll need to manage the freeze. Once it is in place, lenders and creditors will not be able to access your credit report unless you temporarily lift or "thaw" the freeze. You can do this using the PIN or password provided by the credit bureau. You can lift the freeze temporarily when you need to apply for credit, then re-freeze it afterward. It is free to start, lift, and remove a credit freeze. But fees may apply in some states for certain related actions, so check with each credit bureau for details. A credit lock doesn't prevent all types of identity theft, such as unauthorized charges on existing accounts, so it’s essential to continue monitoring your accounts for any suspicious activity. Is it worth it to pay for credit monitoring? Here are some factors to consider when deciding whether to pay for credit monitoring: Level of Concern about Identity Theft: If you're particularly concerned about identity theft or unauthorized access to your credit information, a credit monitoring service can provide peace of mind by alerting you to any suspicious activity on your credit report. Convenience and Accessibility: Paid credit monitoring services often offer additional features and benefits, such as access to credit scores from multiple bureaus, identity theft insurance, and more frequent monitoring. A paid service may be worth it if you value these added conveniences. Financial Situation: Consider your budget and whether paying for credit monitoring fits into your overall financial plan. While some services offer relatively low monthly fees, the cost can add up over time. Evaluate whether the benefits you receive from a paid service justify the expense. Your Commitment to Self-Monitoring: If you know that you won’t have the time or motivation to continually monitor your own credit, then paying for that convenience may be well worth it. The cost of identity theft or uncorrected errors can be high. Do I have legal rights that protect me against unfair or inaccurate credit reporting The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) gives you certain rights to protect your credit report, including: ·       The right to dispute inaccuracies on your credit report ·       The right to a free credit report every 12 months from each of the three major credit bureau ·       The right to seek damages from creditors or credit bureaus that violate your rights under the FCRA Remember, your credit report is a powerful tool – make sure it works for you, not against you.

Susan Rich’s commitment to building homes, communities and hope has a very personal foundation. Having been a single mother for many years, she understands at her core what raising children on one income is like. More than anything, that drives her belief in Habitat for Humanity Seminole-Apopka’s mission, one that has only grown over the years. Susan shares that belief wherever she goes, inspiring her employer, One Florida Bank (OFB); colleagues; friends; and family members (yeah husband Mark!) to take the philanthropic journey with her. One might say she has infused them with her passion to provide affordable homeownership in Central Florida. Susan’s journey with us began in 2015. Merging her dedication to helping women and families and amazing vigor, she jumped right in to build houses, serve on Board committees, and participate in raising money and womanpower for Women Build, involving her then-bank employer. Devoting many hours to support Habitat’s belief that everyone deserves decent housing, Susan took that dedication with her to OFB in 2019, as Executive Vice President and Chief Compliance Officer. Did we mention she was also elected Board Chair that year and has since served two terms in that position? Susan was the impetus for the OFB Community Builders Program. The program supports deserving families in the Central Florida community having access to quality, affordable homes and, gratefully, does this alongside Habitat Seminole-Apopka. A wonderful relationship has developed that melds the local, community-minded bank with a nonprofit that builds strength, stability, and self-reliance through shelter locally. In fact, most Future Homebuyers who turn to our “Hometown Habitat” are products of the area. They want to stay here, but want decent, affordable housing in which to raise their families. Susan is also at the forefront of OFB’s monthly volunteer “Build Days", has served on our Board for nine years, serves on the Board of Habitat Florida, and uses her knowledge as a member of both our Finance and Homeowner Selection Committees. (She’s unstoppable and we love it!) Thanks to Susan’s passion, One Florida Bank was the Presenting Sponsor for the 2023 Women Build, with a generous $30,000 donation and is doing so again right now in 2024. That wasn’t enough for Susan, who raised another $11,930 from everyone she knows last year and is attempting to top her own total this year! In fact, during her nine years of fundraising and team leadership for Women Build alone, she has personally raised more than $60,000. In addition, Susan has enlisted yearly contributions from One Florida Bank. (Talk about donation and fundraising opportunities!) Susan is a Habitat ambassador both in the workplace and in the community by bringing the issues of access to affordable homes and the long-term impact of homeownership to the forefront of discussions at OFB. Too, she promotes the free, online Financial Academy and Habitat’s other financial offerings. Presently, five senior team leaders and several community members serve on our committees thanks to Susan. We can’t do what we do without supporters like Susan, who expresses her heart in so many ways. Is there any wonder why she was honored as our Official Habitat Cheer Captain and wears that heartfelt badge with pride? Want to hear more amazing stories like Susan’s? Follow us on Instagram!

In today's fast-paced world, managing personal finances effectively is more crucial than ever. Having a solid budget in place is essential whether aiming to pay off debt, trying to build your savings account or putting away money for a down payment on a new home. A personal budget empowers you to take control of your financial future, providing a roadmap to achieve your goals and aspirations. The information, tools and resources provided in this article will help you master the art of how to budget & get what you want. What is a budget and why do I need one? At its core, a personal budget is a financial plan that outlines income, expenses, and savings goals over a specific period, typically monthly. The primary objective of a budget is to ensure that you're living within your means, spending less than you earn, and allocating funds to your priorities. By tracking your income and expenses, you gain insights into your spending habits and identify areas where adjustments can be made to achieve financial stability. How do I create a budget? It helps to have a written budget plan to effectively track your income and expenses. Get started with this online budgeting tool. First, you will calculate your total monthly income, including salaries, bonuses, and any other sources of revenue. Next, list all your expenses, categorizing them into fixed (e.g., rent, utilities) and variable (e.g., groceries, entertainment). Be thorough and include discretionary expenses such as dining out and shopping. Once you have a clear picture of your income and expenses, subtract your total expenses from your income to determine your discretionary income—that is the amount left for additional spending or, better yet, for increasing your designated savings amount (More on that later). You can find a wide range of free tools and resources on the Habitat for Humanity Seminole- Apopka website. Try out the budgeting and savings calculators, test your financial wellness and learn how to use credit to improve your credit score. With a little bit of effort, you will learn a lot and improve your financial future. Follow us on Facebook for more great information and keeping up with the latest tips and tools. ↓ Tips for creating your budget Use these key concepts to help stay on track with your budget and maximize your income: 1. Pay yourself first: Before you give your money to others, pay yourself by deciding on an amount each month you can put into savings. Savings is not what is left over after you finish your budgeting process. It’s where you begin your budget. This can be any amount as long as it is consistent each month. Whether it is $20 or $2,000, if you pay yourself first, you automatically choose saving over buying something you may not really need. 2. Prioritize your spending: Identify your needs versus wants and allocate funds accordingly. Focus on covering essential expenses first, such as housing, food, and utilities, before allocating money towards discretionary items. 3. Set realistic goals: Establish short-term and long-term financial goals, e.g. saving for emergencies, paying off debt, or investing for retirement. Break down larger goals into smaller, achievable milestones to track your progress effectively. 4. Track your expenses: Use tools like budgeting apps or spreadsheets to monitor your spending habits regularly. Review your transactions to identify areas where you can cut back and adjust to stay within your budget. 5. Be flexible: Life is unpredictable, and unexpected expenses may arise. Build flexibility into your budget by setting aside a portion of your income for contingencies or emergencies. 6. Review and adjust: Periodically review your budget to assess your progress towards your financial goals. Be prepared to adjust as needed, such as reallocating funds or revising your spending habits to stay aligned with your priorities. Why should I have a personal budget? Mastering personal budgeting offers numerous benefits: 1. Financial Awareness: Budgeting fosters a deeper understanding of your financial situation, including income, expenses, and saving patterns. 2. Control Overspending: By tracking expenses and adhering to a budget, individuals can curb unnecessary spending and make more informed purchasing decisions. 3. Debt Management: Budgeting helps you prioritize debt repayment and avoid accumulating high-interest debt, ultimately improving financial health. 4. Goal Achievement: Setting clear financial goals and incorporating them into your budget increases motivation and accountability, leading to greater success in achieving objectives such as saving for a down payment, funding education, or retiring comfortably. 5. Emergency Preparedness: Building an emergency fund through budgeting provides a financial safety net, ensuring peace of mind and resilience in the face of unexpected expenses or income disruptions. Top 10 Tips for Saving Money 1. Yes, you guessed it. The #1 recommendation of financial professionals is to create a budget. 2. Track Your Expenses: Keep a record of your spending to identify areas where you can cut back. Utilize apps or spreadsheets to track expenses easily and identify patterns or unnecessary purchases. 3. Set Savings Goals: Define specific short-term and long-term savings goals, such as building an emergency fund, saving for a vacation, or purchasing a home. Having clear objectives can motivate you to save consistently. 4. Automate Savings: To ensure you do pay yourself first, set up automatic transfers from your checking account to your savings account each month. This way you know that a portion of your income goes directly into savings without the temptation to spend it. 5. Reduce Discretionary Spending: Evaluate your discretionary expenses, such as dining out, entertainment, or subscription services. Look for ways to reduce or eliminate unnecessary spending in these areas to free up more money for saving. 6. Shop Smart: Comparison shop before making purchases to find the best deals and discounts. Utilize coupons, apps, wait for sales, and consider buying generic brands to save money on everyday items. 7. Limit Impulse Buys: Avoid making impulse purchases by declaring a waiting period before buying non-essential items. Take time to consider whether the purchase aligns with your budget and savings goals. 8. Cut Utility Costs: Reduce your energy and water bills by adopting energy-efficient habits, such as unplugging electronics when not in use and using programmable thermostats. Consider investing in energy-saving appliances for long-term savings. In Florida, publicly owned power companies are required to offer energy-saving programs to their customers, so contact your provider to see if it offers free energy assessments and incentives to help you reduce your bill. 9. Review Subscriptions and Memberships: Regularly assess your subscriptions and memberships to determine if you're getting value from them. Cancel any services you no longer use or need to save money each month. 10. Ask for Discounts: Contact companies with which you often do business to see if they can reduce your rate. With competitive services, such as cable, Wi-Fi, cell phones, insurance and credit cards, providers are likely to offer you a better package or price if they know you are considering going elsewhere. By incorporating these tips into your financial habits, you can effectively save money and work towards achieving your financial goals. Remember that consistency and discipline are key to successful saving. What should I do if I get off track with my budget? Despite your best efforts, unexpected circumstances may derail you. Getting your budget back on track after it veers off course requires a combination of reflection, adjustment, and discipline. Here are some steps to help you regain control of your finances: 1. Assess the Situation: Take a close look at your current financial situation. Analyze where you overspent or where unforeseen expenses arose. Identify the factors that led to the budget deviation. 2. Review Your Budget: Make sure it is realistic and aligns with your financial goals. Determine which categories you overspent in and where you can make cuts to compensate. 3. Cut Unnecessary Expenses: Identify non-essential expenses that you can cut back on. This could include dining out less frequently, canceling unused subscriptions, or finding cheaper alternatives for certain products or services. 4. Increase Income: Consider ways to increase your income to offset overspending. This could involve taking on extra work, selling items you no longer need, or finding ways to monetize your skills or hobbies. 5. Prioritize Debt Repayment: If your overspending resulted in increased debt, prioritize paying it off. Focus on high-interest debt first while making minimum payments on other debts. 6. Build an Emergency Fund: Allocate funds to build or replenish your emergency savings. Having a financial safety net can help prevent future budget deviations when unexpected expenses arise. 7. Track Your Spending: Keep close track of your spending going forward. Use budgeting tools or apps to monitor your expenses in real-time and adjust, as needed. 8. Stay Disciplined: Stick to your budget religiously. Avoid impulse purchases and stay committed to your financial goals. Regularly review your budget to ensure you're staying on track. 9. Seek Professional Help if Necessary: If you're struggling to get your budget back on track or if you have significant debt, consider seeking advice from a financial advisor or credit counselor. They can provide personalized guidance and help you develop a plan to regain control of your finances. Remember, regaining control of your budget won't happen overnight. It requires patience, discipline, and a willingness to make necessary changes to your spending habits. Stay focused on your goals and take initiative in managing your finances to achieve long-term financial stability. Personal budgeting is a powerful tool for achieving financial stability and realizing your dreams. By creating a budget tailored to your unique financial situation and goals, you can take control of your finances, reduce stress, and build a secure future for yourself and your family. Start your journey towards financial mastery today by embracing the principles of personal budgeting and taking proactive steps to manage your money effectively. You can, start building your budget IQ now with free tools from Habitat for Humanity Seminole-Apopka, Banzai and One Florida Bank.

Sandra left South Florida and her marriage about eight years ago and moved to Orlando. Things were going well until the daycare where she worked closed, her rent more-than-doubled, and her car became undrivable. Her only recourse was to live with a colleague and depend on a friend to drive her back and forth to the two part-time daycare jobs she found. That started her unstable living situation of renting rooms in other people’s homes. Sandra was able to save money and build her credit score, with the goal of buying a home. But when she sought mortgage approval on the conventional market, the loan amount her income allowed would only buy an “awful” house that would “set me her up for problems!” Happily, she was hired as an Orange County Public School substitute teacher at Apopka High School and learned about Habitat Seminole-Apopka from a coworker. She applied to our Homebuyers Program, was accepted, and began her sweat equity hours. She took our Financial Academy, in addition to her mandatory classes, worked on houses, helped at a food bank, and did everything she was required to do. Sandra is a true example that, “Things happen for a reason.” Originally choosing a lot in Apopka for her home, permitting issues delayed the start of construction. Understanding her frustration, staff offered her the choice of several sites in Sanford. Hearing an address on Holly Avenue, she immediately fell in love with the name. Sight-unseen Sandra said, “That’s the one I want!” And this is the home Sandra is thrilled to be buying and into which she’ll be moving her 15-year-old grandson from South Florida to give him a brighter future. She wants him to get a good education in Seminole County and then go to the University of Central Florida for Engineering. “I now feel secure about my grandson’s future. He will always have a place…and me too,” she says. “This is the best thing that could have ever happened! It was worth the wait!”

“Mom, when are we going to stop moving?” asks Devora’s 12-year-old son. “We’re moving every year!” Devora has tried to explain to her three children that she can only rent where she can afford. Unfortunately, those places have been full of mold…and even bats! Trying to escape those unhealthy environments, as well as the rising rents, has led to constant moves. She has not escaped, though. She’s now paying a whopping $2,045 per month for a three-bedroom unit with mold. When Devora moved to Orlando in 2020, wanting to get her children out of Miami and leave an unhealthy family situation, she rented a house and found a job. With dreams of homeownership, she first applied to Habitat in 2021. As she didn’t meet the financial criteria, she was denied. Still determined, she took our Financial Academy classes and found the higher-paying position she has today as a custodian at a medical facility. She also improved her credit score and began to save money. Getting a raise within her first six months on the job, quarterly bonuses for a job well done, and working extra hours, sure helps in that regard! With her homeownership dream fueled by stark memories of living in a Miami shelter with her kids, Devora reapplied to Habitat. She was accepted in our Homebuyers Program in May 2023 and began her sweat equity hours. Emergency surgery stopped her short in July, with a three- month hiatus from work, and she credits the Habitat team and her kids for encouraging her not to give up. Devora’s children not only inspire her, but the two older ones have helped earn sweat equity hours by laying sod, painting, working community hours, and getting A grades. “It’s a family affair,” she says. “They are happy. Finally, we won’t have to move anymore!” The fact her future home is being built by Women Build 24 teams thrills Devora to no end! She can’t wait to meet and work alongside everyone, as her job allows, and wanted to make sure it wasn’t too early to tell you… “I want to thank the Women Builders ahead of time for everything!”

The nomadic lifestyle of growing up with parents in the military, and no real sense of “home,” seems to have followed Calesha into adulthood as a mom of two daughters. After a job transfer from Ohio to Tampa, she got hurt and had to depend on a short-term disability of half her income until she could work again. Then, her rent DOUBLED, and she didn’t know what to do. What she did was move her girls to Orlando at a friend’s invitation, quickly realizing the friend did not own the home but was sharing with multiple people who didn’t want Calesha and her daughters there. In August 2022, the car became their home, with just a sporadic night in a hotel. Thankfully, a teacher referred them to a church, which referred them to a shelter. They at last had a room, hot meals, and support. Calesha worked onsite and received training to help her get back into the workforce, which she did! She now works hard in internet technical support and is thrilled to do so! Calesha applied to Habitat. She was denied at first, as she hadn’t been in her job long enough; but a fire started in her to buy a house and break a “generational curse” of moving often and renting. She and her girls agreed to “do this as a family,” save money, and live in the shelter until they could buy their own home. When Calesha reapplied to us, she was accepted. Their Habitat journey has truly been a family project. Her daughters have earned sweat equity hours by volunteering at the shelter and their grades are better than ever. Recently, they were excited to help choose the lot and colors for their future home. “It’s not really me doing it,” Calesha says. “It’s we!” When the family learned theirs would be a Women Build 2024 home, they were thrilled. The fact that groups of women will raise money for and construct their home is a great model for the girls; and mom can’t wait to work alongside the teams. Talk about women supporting women. With the support and all Calesha is learning about maintaining a house and managing finances, she is more than grateful for the opportunity. “It’s a hand up. It’s hard work,” she says. “You will work harder than you thought. Just don’t give up. It’s worth it!”

Our hot-off-the-press 2022-23 Impact Report is here for your reading pleasure! We invite you to see what YOU have helped us accomplish this year to build strength, stability and self-reliance through shelter in Seminole County and Apopka. Through your generous time, talent and treasure, we have provided 16 hardworking families with their American Dream of buying an affordable home. Other neighbors began their journey in our Homebuyers Program; many in the community improved their financial literacy through our flourishing Habitat Financial Academy; more than $17 million of economic impact resulted from our construction and financial wellness programs this year; and much more! We’re not saying anymore here, or you won’t want to check out the six pages. We’ve included some super photos (maybe of you?), much appreciation, and the local outcomes of your Hometown Habitat! Thank you for helping us be such an asset to our community

We invite you to log into our Zoom Happy Hour Wednesday, March 8th from 6:00-7:00 pm to hear Lauline Mitchell, ESP, our Special Guest Speaker for International Women’s Day (#IWD23). Lauline, of BBI Construction, is President of the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC). She’ll share what the Day means to her as professional in a male dominated industry. You’ll also meet the homebuyers for our 2023 Women Build home! International Women’s Day is preceded by International Woman’s Week from March 4-7. The day was formalized by the United Nations in 1977 to create awareness and educate the world about women’s rights. In the 1980s, the day was expanded to a full week of activities that celebrate women in society and foster equality. Changing society’s attitudes is not an easy task and we are heartened that the U.N. has been fronting the endeavor. The theme for #IWD23 is #EmbraceEquity, which seeks to get the world talking about why “equal opportunities are no longer enough.” Equity recognizes that each person has different circumstances, and allocates the exact resources and opportunities needed to reach an equal outcome. (The IWD website has a GREAT explanation of the difference between equity and equality. https://bit.ly/41lxbSo) Coincidentally – or perhaps not – March is also the month for Women in Construction Week. Established by NAWIC, it is observed the first full week of March (March 5-11, 2023) and highlights the initiatives and work of women within the construction industry. The event traces the history of women in construction, their challenges, and the ways they have been able to overcome them. This year’s theme is, “Many Paths, One Mission.” So why are these observances especially meaningful to us at Habitat for Humanity Seminole-Apopka? First, 68% of our Future Homebuyers in 2021-2022 were women. Next, nearly three-quarters of all homebuyers last year were families with children, most of which were headed by working, single mothers. Thirdly, as more than 60% of single women with children in Florida live in poverty, each home purchased was a true victory. Lastly, all of our single homebuyers were women. In addition to those female-centered stats, we’re embarking on the 10th Annual Women Build, where 24 Teams of Divas will be raising money and building their hearts out to help two families realize the American Dream of homeownership! One of those Future Homebuyers is Mary, our very own WOMAN IN CONSTRUCTION. She’s a plumbing apprentice and is thrilled to be working hard on her own Habitat home alongside our women builders! Adding some icing to this construction cake, NAWIC Greater Orlando is a Women Build 2023 team; Mary is a NAWIC member and was honored with the group’s 2022 Outstanding Woman in Construction Award! Women’s Day, Construction Week, Lauline, Mary, NAWIC, Women Build, and embracing equity…what important reasons to celebrate women – in March and otherwise!

Mary Hawkins had a dream. Not only did she want to be a homeowner, but she wanted to BUILD her own home. Having a learning disability that has affected her capacity to read and write, working extra-hard to succeed because of it, and watching housing prices go “sky high,” she believed it was impossible to realize that two-fold dream. Mary, though, is smart and persistent. Those strengths, a very supportive friend, and a Facebook post, have helped the trajectory of her life to change! She obtained her long-awaited high school diploma, attended a construction trades job fair, talked with a major mechanical contractor, and started a plumbing apprenticeship there in May 2019. She’s been in work Heaven and will graduate in May 2023! Mary’s already won a coveted award from the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) and has installed the exterior plumbing for a Habitat house. To her, the award felt “like an Oscar” and she “wished” to do more on the house. Talk about a wish – and a dream – come true! She IS building her own Habitat home and others, now that she’s a Habitat Seminole-Apopka Future Homebuyer! (Her sister’s Facebook post encouraged her to apply for her Habitat journey, which began in February 2022.) “Words can’t describe how I feel,” she says. “I’m excited to have Women Build constructing my house because I’m a WOMAN IN CONSTRUCTION! That’s what we women stand for – we’re VERY powerful!” That woman power extends beyond the desire to build and buy her house. Mary wants to be a part of building up her entire community and truly hopes to “give back” to the youth. Come ask her how!

As Carletha and Eugene (Gene) Nathan recount their history of being “ripped off” when trying to buy a house, we can’t help but feel the pain. That pain has now turned to joy and disbelief as they work towards buying their forever home. The Nathans have been together for 40 years. They’ve raised five children, are the proud grandparents of 20 and the great-grandparents of six! Their dream of homeownership has been front and center for most of those years. Way back when they were both working and raising their family, they moved into a “rent to own” property. But Carletha started to get seizures and their world began to turn upside down. She couldn’t work and was put on expensive medication. Gene had to cut his work hours to be her rock; they moved into a rental property and then relocated from Orlando to Sanford, where Eugene’s mom was able to check on Carletha while he worked. Such was their saga of long-term rentals, only the most recent of which was a good experience. Carletha’s health had stabilized to the point that, after 18 years, she began working part-time in an elementary school cafeteria. Gene’s health and eyes, though, had deteriorated and he could no longer see. Surgery improved this, but he has been unable to work. Life turned 180 degrees and SHE became HIS rock these past 18 years. Still bent on buying, they put down money for a “first-time homebuyer” program, went to a class, got a fancy certificate, and…NOTHING! It was a scam, as were several other “opportunities.” “Everything we think is legit, we end up getting bamboozled,” says Gene. No wonder Carletha threw out the Habitat Seminole-Apopka postcard when it came in the mail. But, when a second card came, she thought someone above might be telling her something. The couple applied, got their finances in order, and were accepted into our Homebuyers Program. Still doubting, they asked a friend if she’s, “sure they’re for real?” The friend – a Habitat homeowner – assured them the program was “for real.” They began their journey in November 2021. How do they feel now? “This is heaven-sent. You guys are legit, and we stand behind you like you stand behind us,” says Gene. “I feel overwhelmed and joyful,” adds Carletha. “FINALLY, we’ll own a house!”

We’re thrilled to share an article from the Florida Catholic newsletter of the Diocese of Orlando that highlights Annunciation Catholic Church in Altamonte Springs as longtime volunteers at Habitat Seminole-Apopka. Our staff, Board and – especially – Future Homebuyers are extremely grateful for the hardworking souls from the church, who come monthly to build alongside those in our program putting in their required “sweat equity” hours. The volunteer group, led by parishioner Dennis Vandendriessche, gives of themselves to serve God. Read how they serve our Habitat family even more than they know!

We’re bursting with pride and appreciation! Habitat Seminole-Apopka, your Hometown Habitat, was recently awarded a $15,000 grant from CAHEC, a nonprofit engaged in developing affordable housing for sale to low-income households. They have offered their Open Doors Homeownership Grant since 2004; and only three grants are being awarded in 2022. CAHEC’s focus this year is to assist nonprofit developers, such as our Habitat Affiliate, in their weatherization efforts. We are THRILLED to be selected because of the impact and quality of our proposal, and even more thrilled that our Future Homebuyers in Florida’s historic Goldsboro community will directly benefit! The funding will help us weatherize EIGHT Habitat homes in the Goldsboro area of Sanford, from attic to ground floor. Specifically, the monies will be used to purchase insulated, glazed double-paned windows as well as heavy duty weatherstripping. This economically disadvantaged area is undergoing a long overdue revitalization; and these homes will be constructed with efforts that equal or surpass those seen in wealthier communities. All our Habitat homes are constructed to Energy Star standards, making the home energy-efficient, healthy, and sustainable. They offer cost-savings features such as the reflectively coated, double-paned windows, WaterSense efficiency/performance products, Energy Star appliances, and incorporate green building materials and practices when possible. We are most grateful to CAHEC for their generous contribution to our mission of building homes, communities and hope. THANK YOU!