MO.HO.CO. Business Spotlight: Habitat for Humanity of the NC Sandhills

Two Habitat for Humanity construction team members wearing green hard hats and work clothing stand outdoors at an active build site with tools and equipment visible in the background.

Habitat for Humanity of the NC Sandhills

Affordable Housing & Workforce Pathways | Moore and Hoke Counties, North Carolina

 

 

Habitat for Humanity of the NC Sandhills builds homes, careers, and community across Moore and Hoke Counties

 

For 37 years, Habitat for Humanity of the NC Sandhills has helped turn the dream of homeownership into reality for working families while creating hands-on opportunities for volunteers, students, and jobseekers across Moore and Hoke Counties.

Formed in February 1988 by local volunteers, the Sandhills affiliate was established to address a growing gap in affordable housing for residents earning between 30 and 80 percent of the area’s median income. Since then, the organization has remained rooted in the belief that everyone deserves a safe, decent, and affordable place to call home.

Habitat for Humanity is part of a global movement founded in 1976 by Millard Fuller and supported by millions worldwide, including longtime volunteer and advocate President Jimmy Carter. Locally, the Sandhills affiliate operates as a multifaceted organization: part nonprofit, part residential builder, part retail operation, and part mortgage originator.

Each year, proceeds from the Habitat ReStore help fund the construction of approximately seven homes, while partnerships with municipalities and professional service providers make it possible to offer affordable mortgages to partner families. A recent milestone includes collaboration with the Town of Aberdeen on Sandhills Station, a planned development that will support the affiliate’s homebuilding efforts for the next 15 years.

 

Nearly 40 years of building affordable housing and workforce pathways
in Moore and Hoke Counties.

 

While the homes themselves are the most visible outcome, Habitat’s impact also shows up in workforce development and civic engagement. The organization relies on a steady pipeline of volunteers and provides internships for students interested in construction, nonprofit management, retail operations, fundraising, and community development. Job opportunities are available for individuals who enjoy working with volunteers and believe in the mission, offering purpose driven careers with real community impact.

“Our work brings together fundraising, construction, retail, lending, and volunteer coordination,” said Executive Director Farrah Newman. “It gives people a chance to learn practical skills, serve alongside others, and see the tangible results of their work.”

Habitat’s culture is known for balancing hard work with humor. Staff and volunteers describe it as high energy, community centered, and fun. Inside jokes, meaningful traditions, and a shared sense of purpose help create an environment where volunteers feel valued and where service feels rewarding.

After nearly four decades, Habitat for Humanity of the NC Sandhills remains proud to call this region home. “This affiliate was started by volunteers, and it continues to thrive because of them,” Newman said. “That commitment is what allows us to keep building.”

How to get involved

Habitat for Humanity of the NC Sandhills invites community members to be part of the mission by volunteering on build sites, serving on a committee or board, supporting the ReStore, or making a financial contribution. Students and jobseekers interested in internships or employment opportunities can learn more at .

Learn more about opportunities with Habitat for Humanity of the NC Sandhills

Habitat for Humanity of the NC Sandhills is now part of a new apprenticeship opportunity developed in partnership with 鶹, creating a direct pathway for individuals to earn while they learn in construction, community development, and nonprofit operations. This apprenticeship offers hands-on experience with a mission-driven organization while building skills that translate into long-term careers.

Students, jobseekers, and career changers interested in this apprenticeship can learn more by contacting:

Jason Levister
SCC Director of Workplace Learning
(910) 695-3778
levisterj@sandhills.edu.

For those looking to make a tangible impact while building a future, this apprenticeship offers a chance to help build affordable homes and stronger communities across Moore and Hoke Counties.


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