Build a home.

Habitat for Humanity builds homes all over the world (including the US and Canada) for those who might not otherwise be able to afford a home of their own. Since 1976, Habitat has built over 125,000 "simple, decent, affordable houses in partnership with those who lack adequate shelter." Habitat volunteers have provided shelter for more than 1,000,000 people in over 100 countries worldwide. There's a Habitat house built every 26 minutes! Think of the difference that makes!

Habitat houses are sold to partner families at no profit, financed with affordable, no-interest loans. The homeowners' monthly mortgage payments are used to build still more Habitat houses. Habitat is not a giveaway program. In addition to a down payment and the monthly mortgage payments, homeowners invest hundreds of hours of their own labor -- sweat equity -- into building their Habitat house and the houses of others.

Volunteering with Habitat is a great way to develop and refine construction and other skills, all while providing a wonderful service. Here are some of the many ways you can get involved:

* Apply for a home for yourself, or pass this information on to someone in need. Homeowners are chosen based on the applicants' level of need, their willingness to become partners in the program, and their ability to repay the no-profit, no-interest loan. Call 1-800-422-4828, ext. 2551 or 2552 for more information.

* Volunteer with Habitat on or off the construction site. There are international opportunities and opportunities in Americus, Georgia (the headquarters); short-term and long-term opportunities, and opportunities for students, seniors, women, prisoners, and everyone else.

* Donate to Habitat. Financial and in-kind donations are welcomed. Don't forget to ask if your employer will match your donation.

* Shop the Habitat store. Proceeds benefit Habitat's good works. And when you need items that aren't available from the Habitat store, find them by shopping with a purpose.

* Learn more about how Habitat works so that you can speak intelligently about it to others. Who knows, you just might encourage someone else to volunteer!

"All the average human being asks is something he can call a home; a family that is fed and warm; and now and then a little happiness; once in a long while an extravagance." - Mother Jones (1830–1930), U.S. labor organizer