One year ago, in spring 2024, Twin Cities Habitat launched a new program for homeowners and homebuyers: Volunteer and Learn with Habitat. We got rid of the previous Sweat Equity program that required homebuyers to complete a set number of volunteer hours, instead creating a new vision grounded in our equity work and centering homeowners. The program aims to help homeowners thrive in their new homes by offering workshops, skill-building days, and events for participants to build community, learn about financial wellbeing, and improve home maintenance skills. Check out the amazing progress that's been made in the last year.
Our next Skill Builder Day is Saturday, April 12, at The Heights in St. Paul. This is a great chance to meet and learn from other Habitat homeowners, and get your burning DIY questions answered by Habitat site supervisors. Lunch is provided.
Date: Saturday, April 12, 2025 Time: 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. Location: The Heights
Don't miss Capital Improvement Credits for Habitat-Developed Homes, an online webinar for homeowners who bought Habitat-developed homes. Learn how home improvements might affect your home's value at the time of sale. Discover the process for obtaining a Capital Improvement Credit that can be applied when you're ready to sell your home.
Join Twin Cities Habitat supporters, staff, and homeowners at the Capitol on Tuesday, May 13 for Habitat's annual day of advocacy, Habitat on the Hill! You'll experience an inspiring program, have the chance to meet with your legislators, and you'll get all the training you need to advocate effectively. All you need to bring is your passion for Habitat’s mission. You’ll receive a light breakfast, boxed lunch, and Habitat swag—and it's completely free to participate!
Gutters – Gutters can fill up with dirt, fall leaves, and other debris that can cause a variety of issues. This water can back up into your roof and cause rot and leaks, or it can seep into your foundation and cause flooding. Safety is key for this project. Make sure to have the proper size of ladder, and if you are not comfortable climbing it, enlist help. Gutter Cleaning Video
Check water flow from downspouts – After your gutters are clean, pour water through them and make sure the water is running away from your home instead of pooling around the foundation. Pooled water can leak into your home’s foundation and cause cracks. Downspout Water Flow Video
Test your sump pump – Springtime is when snow starts to melt, and flooding becomes a higher risk than at any other time of the year. It’s better to test your sump pump to make sure it’s working than to deal with the aftermath. Sump Pump Video
Check for water intrusion –Springtime thawing and precipitation can often lead to water intrusion in your basement. Regularly check your home for any water that might be entering from the exterior. Consider some of these fixes to waterproof your basement.
Air exchanger – If you have an air exchanger, change the settings to standby for spring, summer, and fall. This video details how air exchangers work and some simple maintenance. Be sure to look at your manual for details specific to your unit. Air Exchanger Video
Money Minute
April 7 – 11 is America Saves Week, encouraging people to save for the future at a time when many people receive tax refunds. Here are a few ways to join the cause:
Minnesota 529 College Savings Plan (MNSAVES) has been helping Minnesota families save for education for more than 22 years. A 529 plan is a college savings plan sponsored by a state or state agency. Minnesota taxpayers can qualify for a state tax deduction up to $3,000 by opening a 529 and contributing (if married and filing jointly). Families can pay for a range of qualified educational expenses, withdraw money as needed, and even transfer funds to eligible beneficiaries. It only takes 15 minutes and $25 to start saving for college! Learn more at: https://www.mnsaves.org/
Share Your Story With the Habitat Community
Every Habitat homeowner has a valuable story to share. Publicly sharing your homeownership experience inspires our community, improves awareness of the importance of homeownership, and helps more families buy homes. There are several ways to share your story! If interested, please email: homeowner@tchabitat.org.
