Santa Monica, CA – May 10, 2013: Habitat For Humanity of Greater Los Angeles’ ReStores and Deconstruction & Reuse Network (DRN) will be joining forces at this year’s Alt Build Expo in Santa Monica to show what the community can gain from their collaboration.  There is a direct benefit to the environment and community through the efforts of deconstruction and reuse of building materials, including supporting the building of affordable homes and ensuring materials are repurposed and diverted from local landfills.  Through its deconstruction and reuse services, DRN provides a consistent flow of building materials and home fixtures for HFH GLA’s ReStores located in Gardena and Norwalk.

DRN, an environmental and social benefit organization develops programs for property owners to ensure materials from structures slated for remodel or tear down will be reused and recycled, and are gifted to HFH GLA in their current state.  The benefit of reuse for property owners is a tax deductable donation based on salvaged materials.  The benefit for the community is extensive, including the diversion of several tons of reusable materials from landfills; those items being made available at affordable prices to the public and the development of more affordable housing.

Alt Build Expo in Santa Monica is one of the most established Green events in the country and each year it attracts professionals, homeowners and experts from a variety of industries and environmentally responsible organizations. This year’s expo will be held May 10 and 11, 2013 at the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium.

About Habitat for Humanity of Greater Los Angeles

Habitat for Humanity of Greater Los Angeles (HFH GLA) strives to eliminate substandard housing through advocacy, education and partnership with families and individuals in need to build decent, sustainable and affordable housing. Since 1990, HFH GLA has built and renovated nearly 800 homes locally and worldwide, transforming the lives of hundreds of individuals. HFH GLA is a GuideStar® Valued Partner and has achieved the coveted Charity Navigator 4-Star rating awarded to non-profits for sound fiscal management and commitment to accountability and transparency. For more information, please visit http://www.habitatla.org or call 310-323-4663. Visit our blog at http://buildingagreaterla.blogspot.com.

About Deconstruction & ReUse Network: 
Deconstruction & ReUse Network is an environmental and social benefit corporation 501(c)(3), whose mission is to promote and empower deconstruction practices and to grow a greater reuse network for quality building materials through partnerships with complimentary operations and organizations. Deconstruction & ReUse Network currently serves Northern and Southern California with partnerships that benefit Habitat for Humanity and Corazon. www.Decon-Network.org

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Media Contact:
Angela Moore, Starfish P.R.
T: 310-429-8868
angela@starfish-pr.com

Los Angeles, CA – April 23, 2013: In honor of National Volunteer Week, Habitat for Humanity of Greater Los Angeles (HFH GLA) will be hosting special build days, today through Saturday, welcoming volunteers from Sit ‘n Sleep, Fox Broadcasting Company, Sony Pictures Entertainment and more. National Volunteer Week is about inspiring, recognizing and encouraging people to seek out imaginative ways to engage in their communities.

Volunteers will be giving back with Habitat at various build sites throughout greater Los Angeles, taking on a variety of tasks that include demolition, trenching, drywall, framing, roofing and more.  In addition to building, volunteers are encouraged to “share the good” with photos and posts to social networks to inform and inspire more people to get involved with Habitat for Humanity and other community strengthening efforts.

“National Volunteer Week continues to inspire so many to seek out ways to serve their community and we are thrilled to welcome back some familiar groups as well as some who are joining us for the first time,” said Erin Rank, president and CEO, HFH GLA.  “Each year, over 10,000 volunteers help us build hope, lives and communities and it’s an honor for us to recognize them during this special week.”

Volunteer building events during National Build Week include:

Tues. 4/23: Women in Non-Traditional Employment Roles (WINTER) – Long Beach

Wed. 4/24: Sit ‘n Sleep – Long Beach

Thurs. 4/25: WINTER – Long Beach

Friday 4/26: Fox Broadcasting Company – Lynwood

Friday 4/26: WINTER – Long Beach

Sat. 4/27: St. Matthews Episcopal Church – Long Beach

Sat. 4/27: Sony Pictures Entertainment – Lynwood

National Volunteer Week also gives organizations and communities an opportunity to thank those who continually give of themselves throughout the year. HFH GLA will acknowledge special volunteers during a Volunteer Appreciation Event Friday, April 26 at the South Gate Park Municipal Auditorium.  Honors will be given for the winner of the Department Volunteer of the year and special “Trusty Rusty”, who were nominated by HFH GLA department staff and Presidential Awards will be handed out based on hours volunteering throughout the year.  Volunteers who have given more than 100 hours of service in 2012 will be in attendance and honored for helping to propel the mission of Habitat.

Notable 2012 HFH GLA statistics:

• More than 11,000 volunteers gave over 124,000 hours
• 85% of homes were built by volunteers
• Volunteers worked on construction sites, in ReStores, in HFH GLA office and at special events
• A Habitat home is built every six minutes worldwide!
• HFH GLA has helped to build nearly 800 homes – locally and internationally

HFH GLA will also be recognizing volunteers by sharing photos and stories on its blog, Facebook, Google Plus, Instagram, YouTube and Twitter platforms throughout the week and encourages everyone to share their posts with friends, family and followers.

Habitat for Humanity of Greater Los Angeles builds Tuesday through Saturday year-round and offers a variety of opportunities to volunteer from building on homes to working in their ReStores.  All volunteer opportunities may be found at www.habitatla.org.

About Habitat for Humanity of Greater Los Angeles

Habitat for Humanity of Greater Los Angeles (HFH GLA) strives to eliminate substandard housing through advocacy, education and partnership with families and individuals in need to build decent, sustainable and affordable housing. Since 1990, HFH GLA has built and renovated nearly 800 homes locally and worldwide, transforming the lives of hundreds of individuals. HFH GLA is a GuideStar® Valued Partner and has achieved the coveted Charity Navigator 4-Star rating awarded to non-profits for sound fiscal management and commitment to accountability and transparency. For more information, please visit http://www.habitatla.org or call 310-323-4663. Visit our blog at http://buildingagreaterla.blogspot.com.

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Media Contacts:

Jo-Ann Turman

Habitat for Humanity GLA
424-246-3175

jturman@habitatla.org

Angela Moore

Starfish PR

310-429-8868

angela@starfish-pr.com

Los Angeles, CA – April 11, 2013: On Saturday, April 6, 2013, Habitat for Humanity of Greater Los Angeles (HFH GLA) hosted the 2^nd Annual Palos Verdes Ride for Habitat at the Terranea Resort.   The event offered three courses around the beautiful Palos Verdes Peninsula including an expert 50-mile ride, an intermediate 34-mile ride and an amateur 17-mile ride.  Nearly 200 cyclists participated, helping to raise more than $90,000 and still counting, which will help HFH GLA build more decent, sustainable and affordable housing.

The PV Ride for Habitat began last year when HFH GLA board member and Palos Verdes resident, Arnold Ng, had a vision to bring together his passion for Habitat for Humanity and cycling. .  Special guests included USA Olympic Silver Medalist, Dotsie Bausch as the Ride Marshall and Emmy award-winning journalist and ABC7 Eyewitness News Health Specialist, Denise Dador, who served as master of ceremonies during the post-ride celebration.

“It took months of planning, hard work and the generosity of many to make this event a reality,” said Erin Rank, president and CEO, HFH GLA.  “Arnold Ng had an incredible vision to start this event last year and he led an incredible committee that has worked with passion and commitment. We thank them for their tireless dedication and our incredible sponsors for their generous support.”

WATCH HIGHLIGHT VIDEO NOW

Los Angeles continues to be one of the least affordable cities for housing.  Thanks to its partners and volunteers, HFH GLA is transforming lives and communities by building decent, sustainable and affordable housing.  The board of directors supports this mission by reaching out to the community to raise awareness and the necessary funds to continue this work.  The PV Bike Ride Committee who oversaw the planning and execution of this year’s event include: Leslie Chan, Kay Chesnut, Tom Huang, Anne Laguzza, Doug Mew, Arnold Ng, Karin Takusagawa, Leslie Tanouye, Arthur Wong and Greg Woo.

This event raised more than $90,000 to date through participant registrations, individual fundraising, raffles and the generosity of sponsors.  HFH GLA would like to acknowledge the following major sponsors of this year’s event: Terranea Resort; Bike Palace; McCormick Ambulance Service; Aqua Hydrate; St. Paul’s Lutheran Church; Vons; Whole Foods; Cathay Bank and Phillips 66.

About Habitat for Humanity of Greater Los Angeles

Habitat for Humanity of Greater Los Angeles (HFH GLA) strives to eliminate substandard housing through advocacy, education and partnership with families and individuals in need to build decent, sustainable and affordable housing. Since 1990, HFH GLA has built and renovated nearly 800 homes locally and worldwide, transforming the lives of hundreds of individuals. HFH GLA is a GuideStar® Valued Partner and has achieved the coveted Charity Navigator 4-Star rating awarded to non-profits for sound fiscal management and commitment to accountability and transparency. For more information, please visit http://www.habitatla.org or call 310-323-4663. Visit our blog at http://buildingagreaterla.blogspot.com.

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Media Contacts:

Los Angeles, CA – March 26, 2013

The Affiliates of Distinction program was established this year by Habitat for Humanity to honor those Habitat affiliates that meet or exceed best-practice standards.

“We are extremely honored to be acknowledged as one of the Inaugural Affiliates of Distinction,” said Erin Rank, president and CEO, HFH GLA. “This award belongs to all of the staff, Board Members and volunteers who carry out our work with passion and integrity every day. We applaud the work of Habitat for Humanity affiliates across the nation, and we are proud to be part of this ministry.”

Watch a video with Erin Rank here.
Since 1990, HFH GLA has built and renovated nearly 800 homes locally and worldwide, transforming the lives of thousands of hardworking families and individuals. HFH GLA has developed programs that engage local industries and partners to increase its ability to serve more Angelenos, including helping veterans to purchase affordable housing and assisting current homeowners with home repairs.  Through Hollywood for Habitat for Humanity, a program of HFH GLA, the entertainment industry has rallied to support Habitat’s mission through funding, volunteering and advocacy.  HFH GLA also has two area ReStores, which serve as self-sustaining funding sources by accepting new and used donations that are resold to the community, while helping to keep tons of materials out of local landfills.

Habitat affiliates considered for the honor were reviewed by seven criteria: sustainable and green building; overall organizational leadership; community development; financial sustainability; alignment with Habitat for Humanity’s strategic plan; effective use of technology to better communication with the public; and support for Habitat’s global mission.

“We are incredibly thankful for the extraordinary efforts and service of these first seven Affiliates of Distinction,” said Jonathan Reckford, CEO, Habitat for Humanity International. “Their innovative thinking and commitment to decent, affordable housing helps many families control their long-term housing costs and contributes to the development of strong, sustainable communities.”

About Habitat for Humanity of Greater Los Angeles

Habitat for Humanity of Greater Los Angeles (HFH GLA) strives to eliminate substandard housing through advocacy, education and partnership with families and individuals in need to build decent, sustainable and affordable housing. Since 1990, HFH GLA has built and renovated nearly 800 homes locally and worldwide, transforming the lives of hundreds of individuals. HFH GLA is a GuideStar® Valued Partner and has achieved the coveted Charity Navigator 4-Star rating awarded to non-profits for sound fiscal management and commitment to accountability and transparency. For more information, please visit http://www.habitatla.org or call 310-323-4663. Visit our blog at http://buildingagreaterla.blogspot.com.

About Habitat for Humanity International

Habitat for Humanity International is a global nonprofit Christian housing organization that seeks to put God’s love into action by bringing people together to build homes, communities and hope. Since 1976, Habitat has served more than 600,000 families by welcoming people of all races, religions and nationalities to construct, rehabilitate or preserve homes; by advocating for fair and just housing policies; and by providing training and access to resources to help families improve their shelter conditions. For more information, to donate or to volunteer, please visit www.habitat.org, or follow us at www.facebook.com/habitat or at www.twitter.com/habitat_org or join Habitat’s blog community at www.habitat.org/blog.

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Contacts:

Jo-An Turman

HFH GLA

T: 424-246-3175

jturman@habitatla.org

Angela Moore

Starfish PR

T: 310-429-8868

angela@starfish-pr.com

 

Los Angeles, CA – March 21, 2013:  For the first time, Habitat for Humanity of Greater Los Angeles (HFH GLA) is offering the opportunity to design the collectible t-shirt for its most anticipated event of the year “Power Women, Power Tools.”  Every year, “Power Women, Power Tools” attracts high-profile women volunteers from various sectors, including corporate, government, faith and the entertainment industry, as well as celebrities who spend the day building homes and bringing much needed awareness for affordable housing.  This year’s event will be held on Saturday, June 15, 2013 at Sony Pictures Studios from 8am to 4pm.  “Power Women, Power Tools” is an invite-only event and prior volunteers include: Julie Bowen, Tia Carrere, Lauren Conrad, Cat Cora, Kristen Davis, Rosario Dawson, Jennifer Grey, Kristina Guerrero, Paige Hemmis, Stacy Keibler, Mary Murphy, Pauley Perrette, Tom Shadyac, Raven-Symone, Randall Wallace and Chandra Wilson.

The winning designer will be announced in a press release including his/her name; receive an invitation to attend “Power Women, Power Tools” on June 15, 2013 (transportation will not be provided) plus special recognition online, on-site at the event and in printed materials for the event. Additionally, there will be a special announcement during the event honoring the winning designer.

For the past eight years, the “Power Women, Power Tools” t-shirt has become a collectible item, which some consider bragging rights for having participated in the special build day.  Until now, HFH GLA has designed the t-shirt in-house, however the organization has opened up the opportunity to the public as a way of engaging a new audience in a creative and organic way.  The contest is a fun way to support a local designer, while promoting the mission of Habitat for Humanity in Greater Los Angeles.

Contest Rules:

• Eligibility: Must be over 18 years of age; multiple entries are allowed; there is no local requirement.
• Design Requirements: Each t-shirt design must include the “Power Women, Power Tools” event name AND Habitat for Humanity of Greater Los Angeles.
• Logo Optional: Habitat for Humanity of Greater Los Angeles logo is not required but logos are available for download at http://bit.ly/Zxt157
• Entries must be received by Wednesday, April 3, 2013 at 11:59 pm PDT.
• The winner will be announced on Monday, April 8, 2013 and contacted within 2 days of announcement.

How to Enter:

Entries may be submitted via email or Facebook:

• To enter via email, send a PDF file to pwpt2013@habitatla.org
• To enter on Facebook, Like the HFH GLA Facebook Page, then upload the entry and tag HFH GLA in the post.

For more information, please email Yvonne Lara or call 424-246-3187 or visit Habitatla.org.

About Habitat for Humanity of Greater Los Angeles

Habitat for Humanity of Greater Los Angeles (HFH GLA) strives to eliminate substandard housing through advocacy, education and partnership with families and individuals in need to build decent, sustainable and affordable housing. Since 1990, HFH GLA has built and renovated nearly 800 homes locally and worldwide, transforming the lives of hundreds of individuals. HFH GLA is a GuideStar® Valued Partner and has achieved the coveted Charity Navigator 4-Star rating awarded to non-profits for sound fiscal management and commitment to accountability and transparency. For more information, please visit http://www.habitatla.org or call 310-323-4663. Visit our blog at http://buildingagreaterla.blogspot.com.

# # #

Media Contacts:

Jo-An Turman

HFH GLA

C: 310-749-6613

jturman@habitatla.org

Angela Moore

Starfish PR

C: 310-429-8868

angela@starfish-pr.com

“We want all Americans to have access to quality, affordable housing,” said Zack Boyers, chairman and chief executive officer of U.S. Bancorp Community Development Corporation. “Working with partners like Smith NMTC, CCML, ICD, Harbor Bank, and many others over the years to generate capital, leverage sponsorship dollars raised by Habitat for Humanity affiliates, and increase the affiliates’ building capacity is one important way that we are helping make affordable housing available to more families.”

The investments are the latest in a series of similar funding commitments made by U.S. Bank. Over the past five years, U.S. Bancorp Community Development Corporation (USBCDC) has provided more than $80 million of New Markets Tax Credit equity and leverage to support the development of Habitat for Humanity homes in 30 states, working with St. Louis-based Smith NMTC Associates. Those combined investments have helped finance a total of 2,975 homes across the country. More detail about where those homes are located is provided below.

U.S. Bancorp, the parent company of U.S. Bank, has also supported Habitat for Humanity through charitable contributions and low-interest loans, in addition to the equity investments it makes through USBCDC. Since 2011, U.S. Bancorp Foundation has contributed more than $650,000 to Habitat for Humanity affiliates across the United States and provided another $23,000 in matching gifts. During that same timeframe, the company provided nearly a dozen loans to Habitat for Humanity affiliates worth more than $6 million.

U.S. Bancorp employees also regularly partner with Habitat for Humanity affiliates to help build and rehabilitate properties that will provide safe housing for families in need. Since January 2011, nearly 1,000 U.S. Bank employees have volunteered 9,168 hours serving Habitat for Humanity affiliates across the country. Recently, 65 U.S. Bank employees volunteered more than 500 hours working with Habitat for Humanity of Greater Los Angeles to help build two new homes and rehabilitate properties that will provide safe housing for families in the Greater Los Angeles area.

“U.S. Bancorp has been a valuable partner for Habitat for Humanity because they not only recognized a need for decent and affordable shelter in this country, they stepped up and are doing something to address it,” said Erin Rank, President & CEO of Habitat for Humanity of Greater Los Angeles. “Thanks to their efforts, our organization is able to help more hardworking families purchase homes that are safe and affordable, and that will have a positive impact on these families for generations to come.”

In October, U.S. Bancorp received the Financial Supporter of the Year award at the Southern California Association of NonProfit Housing (SCANPH) conference in Los Angeles, in part for its participation in the Greater Los Angeles “Build Day.” U.S. Bancorp was honored for its support of organizations that encourage the purchase, preservation, rehabilitation, and construction of affordable housing through direct lending, tax credit investments, partnership with investment lending programs, grants or volunteer support of affordable housing nonprofits in Southern California, and particularly for its work in Los Angeles.

Other Habitat for Humanity affiliates that have benefitted as a result of U.S. Bancorp’s investment since 2008 include:

Alabama Arizona California

Colorado Connecticut

Delaware Florida

Indiana Iowa

Louisiana

Habitat for Humanity of Greater Birmingham, Inc. (AL) – 107 homes Habitat for Humanity of Southwest Alabama (AL) – 44 homes

Habitat for Humanity Central Arizona (AZ) – 15 homes Habitat for Humanity Tucson, Inc. (AZ) – 28 homes

Habitat for Humanity Greater San Francisco, Inc. (CA) – 53 homes Habitat for Humanity East Bay/Silicon Valley (CA) – 94 homes Sacramento Habitat for Humanity, Inc. (CA) – 52 homes Habitat for Humanity of Greater Los Angeles (CA) –14 homes Habitat for Humanity of Orange County, Inc. (CA) – 30 homes

Habitat for Humanity of Metro Denver, Inc. (CO) – 67 homes

Habitat for Humanity of Coastal Fairfield County (CT) – 14 homes Hartford Area Habitat for Humanity (CT) – 24 homes Habitat for Humanity of Greater New Haven, Inc. (CT) – 15 homes

Habitat for Humanity of New Castle County, Inc. (DE) – 41 homes

Habitat for Humanity of Greater Miami, Inc. (FL) – 248 homes Habitat for Humanity of Pinellas County, Inc. (FL) – 37 homes Highlands County Habitat for Humanity Inc. (FL) – 124 homes Indian River County Habitat for Humanity, Inc. (FL) – 92 homes

Habitat for Humanity of Evansville, Inc. (IN) – 48 homes

Cedar Valley Habitat for Humanity (IA) – 19 homes Siouxland Habitat for Humanity (IA) – 24 homes Greater Des Moines Habitat for Humanity, Inc. (IA) – 56 homes Heartland Habitat for Humanity (IA) – 27 homes Iowa Valley Habitat for Humanity (IA) – 9 homes

Bayou Area Habitat for Humanity (LA) – 9 homes Habitat for Humanity St. Tammany West (LA) – 42 homes

Maryland

Michigan

Missouri Mississippi

Nebraska New Jersey North Carolina

Oklahoma Ohio

Oregon Pennsylvania

Tennessee

Texas Virginia

West Virginia Washington, D.C.

Chesapeake Habitat for Humanity (MD) – 82 homes Habitat for Humanity of the Chesapeake, Inc. (MD) – 94 homes Sandtown Habitat for Humanity (MD) – 16 homes

Habitat for Humanity Detroit (MI) – 20 homes Habitat for Humanity of Kent County, Inc. (MI) – 23 homes

Habitat for Humanity Saint Louis (MO) – 77 homes

Habitat for Humanity Metro Jackson, Inc. (MS) – 54 homes Habitat for Humanity of the Mississippi Gulf Coast, Inc. (MS) – 131 homes

Habitat for Humanity of Omaha, Inc. (NE) – 65 homes Paterson Habitat for Humanity, Inc. (NJ) – 21 homes

Chatham Habitat for Humanity (NC) – 20 homes Habitat for Humanity of Durham, Inc. (NC) – 158 homes Habitat for Humanity Wake County (NC) – 41 homes

Central Oklahoma Habitat for Humanity, Inc. (OK) – 143 homes

Cincinnati Habitat for Humanity (OH) – 38 homes Habitat for Humanity of Cleveland, Inc. (OH) – 31 homes

Habitat for Humanity Portland/Metro East (OR) – 92 homes

Habitat for Humanity Philadelphia, Inc. (PA) – 9 homes Habitat for Humanity of Bucks County, Inc. (PA) –14 homes

Habitat for Humanity of Greater Memphis, Inc. (TN) – 200 homes Habitat for Humanity of Greater Nashville (TN) – 17 homes Loudon County Habitat for Humanity, Inc. (TN) – 18 homes

Austin Habitat for Humanity (TX) – 23 homes

Habitat for Humanity of Greater Charlottesville, Inc. (VA) – 29 homes Rockbridge Area Habitat for Humanity, Inc. (VA) – 7 homes

Almost Heaven Habitat for Humanity, Inc. (WV) – 38 homes Habitat for Humanity of Washington, D.C., Inc. (DC) – 17 homes

Washington Habitat for Humanity – Spokane (WA) –35 homes Habitat for Humanity of East Jefferson County (WA) – 33 homes

Habitat for Humanity of Seattle/South King County (WA) – 17 homes Tacoma/Pierce County Habitat for Humanity (WA) – 61 homes

Wisconsin Milwaukee Habitat for Humanity (WI) – 18 homes

About U.S. Bancorp Community Development Corporation (USBCDC)

With more than $10.2 billion in assets, St. Louis-based USBCDC, a subsidiary of U.S. Bank, provides innovative financing solutions for community development projects across the country using state and federally sponsored tax credit programs. USBCDC’s commitments provide capital investment to areas that need it the most and have contributed to the creation of new jobs, the rehabilitation of historic buildings, the construction of needed affordable and market-rate homes, the development of renewable energy facilities, and the generation of commercial economic activity in underserved communities. Visit USBCDC on the web at usbank.com/cdc.

About U.S. Bancorp

Minneapolis-based U.S. Bancorp (NYSE: USB), with $352 billion in assets as of September 30, 2012, is the parent company of U.S. Bank National Association, the 5th largest commercial bank in the United States. The Company operates 3,086 banking offices in 25 states and 5,080 ATMs and provides a comprehensive line of banking, brokerage, insurance, investment, mortgage, trust and payment services products to consumers, businesses and institutions. U.S. Bancorp and its employees are dedicated to improving the communities they serve, for which the company earned the 2011 Spirit of America Award, the highest honor bestowed on a company by United Way. Visit U.S. Bancorp on the web at usbank.com.

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Contacts:

Jo-An Turman, HFH GLA, 424-246-3175 jturman@habitatla.org

Nicole Garrison-Sprenger U.S. Bank Public Relations (612) 303-0731, nicole.sprenger@usbank.com

 GH Cast Members will Raise Money & Build Alongside Fans February 9^th

Los Angeles, CA – December 12, 2012:  Fans of the long-running, ABC daytime drama, General Hospital will once again have the opportunity to spend a day building a Habitat for Humanity home with their favorite cast members.  The 4^th Annual General Hospital Fan Build has been announced for Saturday, February 9, 2013 in Los Angeles.  This year’s event will pay tribute to the late John Ingle, the beloved actor who portrayed Edward Quartermaine on the show.

On Saturday, February 9^th, Habitat for Humanity of Greater Los Angeles (HFH GLA) will host the 4^th Annual General Hospital Fan Build Day as part of its entertainment partnership program, Hollywood for Habitat for Humanity (HFHFH).  General Hospital cast members are donating their time and talents to help build affordable and sustainable housing alongside their fans. Fans may register here for a limited number of build spots online for a minimum donation of $300.

General Hospital Fan Build Days originated in 2009 with Brandon Barash and Lisa LoCicero who created the event as a way to reward loyal fans of the show, while becoming more involved with Habitat for Humanity.  Each year cast members and fans enjoy a day of building a home and raising awareness for affordable housing.  This year, the cast members decided to honor their co-star and friend John Ingle by dedicating the event to him. Ingle, who was a big supporter of Habitat for Humanity and this special event, will be remembered in a moment of silence during the lunch presentation.

General Hospital cast member volunteers confirmed to attend include:

Nancy Lee Grahn (Alexis Davis)             

Jen Lilley (Maxie Jones)

Lisa LoCicero (Olivia Falconeri)

Kelly Sullivan (Kate Howard)

Jason Thompson (Dr. Patrick Drake)

Dominic Zamprogna (Dante Falconeri)

A limited number of build spots have been made available on a first come first served basis. In addition to building with fans, several cast members have donated exclusive “VIP experiences” for an online auction on Charity Buzz, which will begin in January 2013. The 4^th Annual General Hospital Fan Build Day will take place Saturday, February 9, 2013 at an undisclosed location in greater Los Angeles. Registered volunteers must be at least 18 years old.  Register here to attend.

HFH GLA builds decent, sustainable and affordable homes in partnership with hardworking, low-income families and individuals who agree to pay back a zero-interest loan and volunteer up to 500 hours of sweat equity in the building of their home.

Habitat for Humanity of Greater Los Angeles (HFH GLA) strives to eliminate substandard housing through advocacy, education and partnership with families and individuals in need to build decent, sustainable and affordable housing. Since 1990, HFH GLA has built and renovated nearly 800 homes locally and worldwide, transforming the lives of hundreds of individuals. HFH GLA is a GuideStar® Valued Partner and has achieved the coveted Charity Navigator 4-Star rating awarded to non-profits for sound fiscal management and commitment to accountability and transparency. For more information, please visit http://www.habitatla.org or call 310-323-4663. Visit our blog at http://buildingagreaterla.blogspot.com.

 # # #

Media Contacts:

Jo-An Turman

HFH GLA

O: 424-246-3175

C: 310-749-6613

jturman@habitatla.org

Angela Moore

Starfish PR

310-429-8868

angela@starfish-pr.com

 Los Angeles, CA – November 26, 2012: The need for affordable housing brought together volunteers from the faith traditions of Baha’i, Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Islam, Judaism, the Religious Society of Friends and Unitarian Universalism for the first Interfaith Build Week in Habitat for Humanity of Greater L.A.’s (HFH GLA) history. Volunteers from eight faith traditions built alongside each other November 14-17^th to complete renovation projects on two homes being rehabilitated in Lynwood, which will be sold to qualified, low-income families. Faith leaders from greater Los Angeles emphasized the importance of setting aside differences in order to build hope, lives and communities in partnership with Habitat for Humanity.

“So many rich faith traditions exist in the communities we serve here in greater Los Angeles,” said Erin Rank, President/CEO of HFH GLA. “We were thrilled to bring these communities together under the common goal of affordable housing for our Interfaith Build Week and look forward to continuing our work together in the coming year.”

The Interfaith Build Week was planned to coincide with Fighting Poverty with Faith’s annual mobilization. During a two-week period, the organization encourages communities to participate in volunteer and awareness activities to address root causes of poverty like the lack of affordable housing. Fighting Poverty with Faith is an interfaith movement dedicated to cutting domestic poverty in half by 2020.

In addition, HFH GLA is one of six affiliates leading a yearlong interfaith initiative in partnership with Habitat for Humanity International. Along with New York City, Atlanta, Grand Rapids, Denver and Seattle, HFH GLA is bringing together volunteers from diverse faith backgrounds to build and rehabilitate homes, as well as advocate the need for affordable housing worldwide.

Special thanks to these faith leaders for their support of HFH GLA’s inaugural Interfaith Build Week:

Father Alexei Smith, Archdiocese of Los Angeles

Milia Islam Majeed, South Coast Interfaith Council

Ven. Miao Hsi, International Buddhist Progress Society

Swami Sarvadevananda, Vedanta Society of Southern California

Rev. John Morehouse, Pacific Unitarian Church

Rabbi Charles Briskin, Temple Beth El

Rabbi Adam Kligfeld, Temple Beth Am

Randy Dobbs, Los Angeles Baha’i Community

Dr. Simon Simonian, Religious Society of Friends

Those interested in getting involved with HFH GLA’s interfaith initiative should contact Chris Untiet, faith relations manager, at chrisu@habitatla.org.

About Habitat for Humanity of Greater Los Angeles

Habitat for Humanity of Greater Los Angeles (HFH GLA) strives to eliminate substandard housing through advocacy, education and partnership with families and individuals in need to build decent, sustainable and affordable housing. Since 1990, HFH GLA has built and renovated more than 700 homes locally and worldwide, transforming the lives of hundreds of individuals. HFH GLA is a GuideStar® Valued Partner and has achieved the coveted Charity Navigator 4-Star rating awarded to non-profits for sound fiscal management and commitment to accountability and transparency. For more information, please visit http://www.habitatla.org or call 310-323-4663. Visit our blog at http://buildingagreaterla.blogspot.com.

# # #

Media Contacts:

Jo-An Turman

HFH GLA

C: 310-749-6613

jturman@habitatla.org

Angela Moore

Starfish PR

C: 310-429-8868

angela@starfish-pr.com

Mendoza Family

South Gate Mayor, HUD representative, City Officials, Volunteers& New Partner Homeowners Join in Ribbon Cutting Event

Los Angeles, CA – November 21, 2012:  The Neighborhood Stabilization Program2 (NSP2) was established by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to stabilize neighborhoods whose viability has been and continues to be damaged by foreclosed and abandoned properties. Through the NSP2 program, Habitat for Humanity of Greater Los Angeles (HFH GLA)has partnered with the City of South Gate to purchase 32 foreclosed homes; rehabilitate them with volunteer support and sell them to qualified low-income homebuyers.NSP2 has allowed HFH GLA to serve more families and individuals in greater Los Angeles through the rehabilitation of more than 100 homes and contribute to the area economy by utilizing the services of local companies.

“We are so thrilled for our new partner homeowners and we feel blessed to share in this wonderful new chapter in these family’s lives,” said Erin Rank, President & CEO, HFH GLA. “It’s been rewarding to partner with these hardworking families and the City of South Gate.”

South Gate’s new homeowners are:

To qualify for homeownership, these new homeowners donated at least 200 hours of sweat equity building their homes, or other Habitat homes; they attended home buyer education classes and have agreed to pay back a zero-interest loan.

South Gate Mayor Bill De Witt and Ray Brewer, HUD LA Field Office Director spoke at the event held at the South Gate Park Girls Club House.  Other special guests in attendance included Steven Lefever, Director of Community Development from the City of South Gate;Abel Torres, Housing and Grants Analyst, City of South Gate; HFH GLA board member Gerry Bross, and Larry Schroeder from Malarkey Roofing.

L.A. County remains one of the least affordable places to live and more than half of its residents live below the poverty level. Since 1990, Habitat for Humanity of Greater Los Angeles has built or renovated nearly 800 homes locally and internationally. Partnerships with South Gate and programs such as NSP2, along with volunteer builders, make it possible for HFH GLA to build hope, lives and communities.

Habitat for Humanity would like to thank all of its partners for making this dedication possible including HUD,the NSP2 program and the City of South Gate.  Additional in-kind partners Malarkey Roofing, Whirlpool, Valspar, Kohler, Dow, Simpson Strong Tie, US Air Conditioning and Square D also provided valuable services and materials.

Rank added: “We wish these families many happy years in their new Habitat for Humanity homes.”

About Habitat for Humanity of Greater Los Angeles

Habitat for Humanity of Greater Los Angeles (HFH GLA) strives to eliminate substandard housing through advocacy, education and partnership with families and individuals in need to build decent, sustainable and affordable housing. Since 1990, HFH GLA has built and renovated nearly 800 homes locally and worldwide, transforming the lives of hundreds of individuals. HFH GLA is a GuideStar® Valued Partner and has achieved the coveted Charity Navigator 4-Star rating awarded to non-profits for sound fiscal management and commitment to accountability and transparency. For more information, please visit http://www.habitatla.org or call 310-323-4663. Visit our blog at http://buildingagreaterla.blogspot.com.

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Media Contacts:

Jo-An Turman

HFH GLA

C: 310-749-6613

jturman@habitatla.org

Angela Moore

Starfish PR

C: 310-429-8868

angela@starfish-pr.com

The 1920s Home was Completely Renovated by Delta Volunteers in 6 Weeks & Fully Funded by In-Flight Recycling Program

Los Angeles, CA – November 2, 2012: Habitat for Humanity of Greater Los Angeles (HFH GLA) and Delta Air Lines recently celebrated the completion of the second sponsored home in Long Beach. Partner homeowner, Irma Ulloa, and daughter Vanessa, received the keys to their rehabilitated Spanish style home, originally built in 1926, in a touching ceremony attended by key staff members from both organizations and the City of Long Beach. All of the work on the 86 year-old home took place in just six weeks thanks to dedicated teams of Delta Air Lines employees who volunteered on their own time Wednesday through Saturday, building alongside new partner homeowner, Irma Ulloa.

“Delta Air Lines has amazed us with their commitment to affordable housing and employee volunteers who traveled from near and far over the last six weeks to complete this home in time for the holidays,” said Erin Rank, President and CEO of HFH GLA. “This is the second home in Long Beach sponsored by Delta Air Lines and we know the Ulloa’s will feel their love and support in the walls of this home for years to come.”

Delta Air Lines first partnered with HFH GLA in 2010 to rehabilitate a craftsman-style home for partner homeowner, Wendy Castillo, her mom and two young children. This year’s build, had a unique, green twist in that Delta Air Lines funded the rehabilitation of the Ulloa home through its Comprehensive In-Flight recycling program. In addition to putting their mission into action as a Force for Global Good locally with HFH GLA, Delta has also been busy building with Habitat for Humanity affiliates in four other cities across the country.

“All of us at Delta Air Lines were so excited to come back to Long Beach and rehabilitate a second home,” said Ranjan Goswami, Managing Director for National Account Sales, Delta Air Lines. “This build was unique because it was completely funded by our in-flight recycling program and also because we were able to complete the transformation of the home and see Irma Ulloa’s dream realized in only six short weeks with the help of the nearly 500 Delta employees who volunteered their time.”

Barry Matthews, Program Manager, Delta Air Lines, added: “I could not be more proud to be a part of an air line that is so committed to improving lives.”

HFH GLA has been honored to work closely with the City of Long Beach and HUD to provide the Neighborhood Stabilization Program. Through this program, HFH GLA is transforming foreclosed properties into affordable homeownership opportunities while strengthening neighborhoods in Long Beach.

Irma Ulloa will be able to celebrate the gift of homeownership this holiday season, which is a dream she has held close to her heart for over 15 years. Ulloa is a dental assistant and her daughter Vanessa is a student at Santa Monica College. In addition to completing her sweat equity hours building her own home, Ulloa will also pay back a zero-interest mortgage.

The dedication event also recognized partners, volunteers and all those whose contributions made the rehabilitation of the Ulloa home possible. Special thanks were given to Barry Matthews and Ranjan Goswami from Delta Air Lines headquarters; Councilmember Al Austin; Val Lerch from Congresswoman Laura Richardson’s office; Stacey Fong Toda representing Long Beach Mayor Bob Foster; and Jonathan Kraus, Chief of Staff for the City of Long Beach.

Watch Delta Air Lines volunteers in action in videos from the kick-off and from one of the build days and learn more about Delta Air Lines work with Habitat for Humanity and the Force for Global Good here.

About Habitat for Humanity of Greater Los Angeles

Habitat for Humanity of Greater Los Angeles (HFH GLA) strives to eliminate substandard housing through advocacy, education and partnership with families and individuals in need to build decent, sustainable and affordable housing. Since 1990, HFH GLA has built and renovated more than 700 homes locally and worldwide, transforming the lives of hundreds of individuals. HFH GLA is a GuideStar® Valued Partner and has achieved the coveted Charity Navigator 4-Star rating awarded to nonprofits for sound fiscal management and commitment to accountability and transparency. For more information, please visit http://www.habitatla.org or call 310-323-4663. Visit our blog at http://buildingagreaterla.blogspot.com.

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Media Contacts:

Jo-An Turman

Habitat for Humanity GLA

T: 424-246-3175

jturman@habitatla.org

Angela Moore

Starfish PR

T: 310-429-8868

angela@starfish-pr.com