Rose Rock Habitat for Humanity programs in Cleveland County focus on building homes and supporting individuals and families in the community. I spoke with Elle Shroyer, vice president of donor and community engagement, about all the ways this nonprofit is working to elevate the lives of all who live in this area, as well as ways you can help.
What is your mission? What communities do you serve?
Since 1993, Rose Rock Habitat for Humanity has been devoted to addressing the critical issue of affordable housing in South Central Oklahoma. Our mission is to put God's love into action by building homes, community and hope.
With over 55 affordable homes built and the introduction of the ReStore in 2000, which sells gently used items to generate sustainable funding, we've expanded our impact beyond construction. Our holistic approach includes emergency repairs, wheelchair ramps and support through financial literacy programs.
In 2022, we extended our service area to include Pottawatomie County, and we’re thrilled to announce the upcoming opening of a new ReStore in Shawnee in February 2024, further enhancing our reach. The ReStore's sales, combined with community donations, empower us to serve South Central Oklahoma by constructing and renovating homes for working-class families, providing ramps for aging individuals or those with disabilities, and ensuring inclusivity and accessibility.
Can you provide data on your community impact?
The Rose Rock Habitat for Humanity's diverse programs contribute to both community engagement and the organization's mission. In 2023, the Norman ReStore Programs, including Donation Pick Up (1,409 individual households), Donation Drop Off (2,529 individual households), Deconstruction (five sites with 95 items recovered), and Community Service (749 individuals served 5,868 hours, with four individuals gaining employment with the ReStore) ensure a streamlined and impactful process for individuals looking to contribute to affordable housing.
ReStore also collaborates with the local court system to provide Community Service options and partners with Novelis for Aluminum Recycling. The upcycle program showcases the organization’s commitment to waste reduction and sustainability by repurposing items.
Rose Rock Habitat for Humanity Programs in Cleveland County focus on building homes and supporting individuals and families. In 2023 the Homeownership program benefited two households and six individuals, while ramps were constructed for 11 households (35 individuals). Emergency Repairs, serving 169 households (541 individuals), Community Clean-Ups, aiding seven households (24 individuals), and Code Violation Assistance for five households (10 individuals) exemplify the organization’s commitment to community improvement.
Additionally, the Family Support team assisted 68 individuals by referring them to organizations that could meet their needs. Four Homeownership Workshops were held for the community to connect families no matter where they are in the homeownership experience, with contractors to support them in maintaining their homes (impacting 37 households, 111 individuals).
The Financial Education program further contributes to community well-being, with four in-person classes reaching 17 households (49 individuals) and providing certificates to 328 participants.
Overall, Rose Rock Habitat for Humanity's impactful initiatives touch the lives of numerous individuals, promoting affordable housing, community engagement and financial well-being.
Upcoming events?
The Common Grounds Coffee Festival (9 a.m.-4 p.m. March 2 Cleveland County Fairgrounds), is about building community by bringing people together to support a powerful local cause while celebrating the unique blend of culture and commerce that makes Oklahoma so unique, so come celebrate community through coffee.
https://roserockhabitat.org/coffee2024/
The Rose Rock Habitat for Humanity Family Disc Golf Festival (Oct. 6) is an inclusive and community-driven event that combines competitive play with family-friendly fun, all in support of Habitat for Humanity’s efforts to provide safe and affordable housing.
https://roserockhabitat.org/disc-golf/
What can our readers do to support you?
Readers can engage in various ways. Firstly, they can contribute by donating to our organization, whether it be financial support or by donations of gently used furniture, appliances and household items to our ReStore.
Volunteering is another impactful way to get involved, and individuals can participate in a range of activities such as home construction, community events or assisting at the ReStore.
Additionally, spreading awareness about our mission within the community and on social media helps amplify our reach. We welcome individuals to explore our website or contact us directly to learn about specific volunteer opportunities and areas where their skills and interests align with our initiatives.
Together, we can continue to build homes, foster community and instill hope in the hearts of those in need.
What else would you like readers to know?
While the information provided covers various aspects of Rose Rock Habitat for Humanity’s mission and ways to support, it’s crucial for readers to recognize the transformative impact that community support can have, especially in the context of homeownership.
Every contribution, whether financial, material, or through advocacy, plays a vital role in making a lasting difference in the lives of individuals and families in need.
Beyond the immediate benefits of providing shelter, homeownership has a profound impact on future generations. Stable housing creates a foundation for stability, security and generational progress, positively influencing the educational, emotional and overall well-being of children.
By supporting Rose Rock Habitat for Humanity, readers contribute not only to building homes, but also to breaking the cycle of poverty and empowering families to build a better future for themselves and their descendants. The ripple effect of positive change echoes through families, communities and society as a whole, creating a lasting legacy of hope and progress, while ensuring that everyone has the opportunity for a decent place to live.
"Together, we can continue to build homes, foster community and instill hope in the hearts of those in need."
"Every contribution, whether financial, material, or through advocacy, plays a vital role in making a lasting difference in the lives of individuals and families in need."
