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Writer's pictureAudree Grubesic

Building Hope with Habitat for Humanity: Wesco's Commitment to Affordable Housing

Habitat for Humanity is a renowned global nonprofit organization dedicated to helping families in need of decent and affordable housing. With the support of volunteers and donations, Habitat works to build, renovate, and repair homes for those who may otherwise struggle to access safe, stable housing. Driven by the belief that everyone deserves a secure place to call home, Habitat’s vision has transformed communities worldwide.



Key Aspects of Habitat for Humanity’s Work:

•           Partnership Model: Habitat’s unique approach involves families in need contributing "sweat equity," working alongside volunteers to help build their own homes.

•           Affordable Mortgages: Habitat provides homes to partner families at no profit, offering affordable financing to make homeownership accessible.

•           Global Reach: Operating in over 70 countries, Habitat for Humanity has impacted millions of lives, serving low-income families around the globe.

•           Volunteer-Powered: The organization relies on volunteers for everything from construction to community outreach, fundraising, and more.

 

Since its founding in 1976, Habitat for Humanity has been a beacon of hope, promoting community development and empowering families with the stability of homeownership.


Wesco’s Involvement in Habitat for Humanity

Wesco, a proud supporter of Habitat for Humanity,  took part in the Jimmy & Rosalynn Carter Work Project in October 2023. Kent Anderson, the Senior Business Development Manager of Wesco’s Manufactured Structures Group, along with other team members, spent a week volunteering at a local build site in Charlotte, NC.


Reflecting on the experience, Kent shared how impactful the day was, not only for the families they helped but also for the Wesco team. Contributing to such a meaningful project, building homes, and creating opportunities for families to thrive left a lasting impression.


This is just one of the many ways Wesco is dedicated to making a difference in the communities it serves, demonstrating a commitment to giving back through partnerships like Habitat for Humanity. Together, they’re helping build stronger, more resilient communities—one home at a time.



Offsite Dirt: What was the over goal and purpose of the project?

 

Kent Anderson: The goal was to build a community of homes for local Charlotte residents through the work of Habitat for Humanity.

 

Offsite Dirt: Why did Wesco want to be a part of it?

 

Kent Anderson: Wesco has committed to work with Habitat for Humanity International on a broad basis.  This was a great opportunity for local Wesco personnel to participate in a nationally recognized event.

 

Offsite Dirt: What did you learn from this project about building, people and purpose?

 

Kent Anderson: I’ve been in the building industry for a long time, but this was the first time that we were able to “call in” experts in certain product installations simply by going next door.  The community style of the Carter Work Project lends to this being possible as so many homes are under construction at once with many different aspects happening during each day.

 

The Wesco team worked together on one house, but on different parts of the project from windows and trim to porch columns and flooring installation.  We were a diverse team with different roles and responsibilities at Wesco and each with different capabilities to enhance and help the project.

 

When we started in the morning, the supervisors and team leaders gave us instructions. I think in our minds our purpose was to work on the project, but by the end of the day, it was clear that our purpose was to LOVE our neighbor and that was accomplished through working on a home.

 

Offsite Dirt: What was the overall accomplishment?

 

Kent Anderson: At the end of the project, over two dozen new homes were occupied by residents.  I know our Wesco team left with tired bodies, but with full hearts at the end of our day.

 

Offsite Dirt: How did this project change you after being involved in it?

 

Kent Anderson: This project made me realize that it’s about helping “just one”.  You don’t have to do something that impacts a great number of people.  Sometimes “just one” is enough and sometimes---it’s everything.

 




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