Disability Network, Habitat for Humanity form New Collaboration
Midland Daily News
Midland County Habitat for Humanity and Disability Network of Mid-Michigan formed a joint venture to create a condominium association to give both
organizations joint-ownership of the former Hawkins Printing building on South Saginaw Road, where both organizations have been located for the past three years.
“This collaboration will help both agencies substantially increase the investment of our respective resources back into the community,” said MCHFH
Board President Shawn Pnacek. “We are increasing our ability to provide needed services while creating long-term sustainability for both of our
organizations.”
“Three years ago, Donald and Joann Hawkins were instrumental in facilitating a partnership between our agencies,” said DNMM Board President Jerry Pritchett. “This effort is a continuation of that partnership which has provided significant enhancements to both organizations’ services and programs.”
“At Disability Network, our Nursing Home Transition Program helps people move from nursing facilities into their own homes,” said Executive Director David
Emmel. “Our staff assist with acquiring home furnishings and, frequently, these furnishings are found next door at MCHFH’s ReStore. These purchases, in turn, support MCHFH’s building projects and those building projects can benefit DNMM consumers.”
“Recently, we partnered with DNMM to replace a roof of the house of one of their consumers,” said MCHFH Executive Director Jennifer Parks. “Our
construction coordinator and a team of volunteers provided free labor. This collaboration substantially reduced costs, improved a neighborhood, and kept a
resident with a disability in his home.”
The collaboration has already garnered significant support from community partners.
“The Dow Chemical Foundation has committed $100,000 to this effort,” said Rob Vallentine, director of public affairs at The Dow Chemical Co.. “Through this
partnership and the leveraging of their respective resources, future opportunities for improving quality of life for area residents are endless.”
Disability Network of Mid-Michigan is a consumer-run, grassroots disability organization dedicated to promoting independence for all people with
disabilities. Disability Network’s goal is to change societal attitudes about people with disabilities and to provide an environment where everyone,
regardless of ability, can experience and contribute based on their interests, skills, and desires. For more information, visit www.dnmm.org.
Midland County Habitat for Humanity is a non-profit, inter-denominational Christian ministry dedicated to eliminating substandard housing by building