Habitat for Humanity of East Jefferson County recently celebrated its 75th home dedication, and it could not have been more special. The event recognized not only the hard work of Habitat EJC volunteers and staff, but also the perseverance and partnership of the family receiving the keys to their new home.

David, Marlen, and their two children, Karen and Arelith, are the proud owners of the 75th Habitat home, part of the Cliff Street Cottages community. They have shown tremendous commitment throughout their journey to homeownership. David, a professional house painter, used his skills to not only help build his family's future, but also to share his knowledge and generous spirit with our staff and volunteers. His dedication inspired everyone who worked alongside him.

Patrick James, construction site supervisor, shared that even though he has only known David for a year, “I can't help but appreciate the persistence and perseverance he has displayed, working so diligently to secure a new home for his family. In particular, he has utilized his masterful skill as a painter to knock weeks off our efforts, while teaching us some tips and tricks along the way. We are so grateful that he and his family have their new home in the Cliff Cottage community."

The dedication ceremony was attended by the growing and enthusiastic Habitat community of homeowners, community partners, volunteers, and donors. After Executive Director Jamie Maciejewski welcomed us all, Homeowner Services Manager Leanne Smith introduced the family. David and Marlen’s elder daughter Karen spoke, adding a sweet and touching moment to the ceremony as she expressed thanks to her parents, Habitat, and God for her family’s new home.

A heartfelt thank you goes to Beth Weaver, who sponsored the family's home and presented the keys to David, Marlen, and their children. Beth has a remarkable history of support for Habitat for Humanity in East Jefferson County. She sponsored the 25th, 50th, and now the 75th Habitat homes. Her ongoing commitment reflects a deep investment in the success and wellbeing of local families and in the long-term growth of the community.

Top photo collage, clockwise left to right: house sponsor Beth Weaver presents Arelith with the key to their new home; the family by their new home, with dedication guests in the background; Arelith and Karen on the stairs of their new home; Karen speaking to dedication guests.

Photos, left to right: Arelith, David, Marlen and Karen in front of their new home; Father Gali, Parochial Vicar at St. Mary's Star of the Sea, blessed the family's home in a private moment with friends and family.

Photos, left to right: friends and family of David and Marlen generously prepared a special meal for the occasion, underscoring the spirit of community that defines every Habitat build and every Habitat homeowner; guests at the dedication lining up for the delicious meal. 

Besides their friends and family, it was wonderful to see so many Habitat homeowners and future homeowners attending the dedication in support of David, Marlen, Karen and Arelith!

Many ways to serve, one mission

Volunteering at Habitat EJC goes far beyond construction and the Store. You can help in the office, support fundraising and events, help with the final cleaning of homes prior to dedication, assist with landscaping, and even bake treats or make lunches for our teams. There is a role for every interest and comfort level.

Store and construction

In the Store, volunteers work with art, books, crystal, antique furniture, jewelry and more. If you enjoy finding treasures or helping customers, we can find a way to put your talents to work. .

On construction sites, volunteers help with building, cleanup, project support, and specialized tasks. No experience is needed; we will happily train.

Community Builds

Join one of our open-signup Community Build Days, including Women Build, Pride Build or our first Veteran’s Build. Women Build dates are April 9-11, August 6-8, and September 17-19, and are available for registration now. Save the dates: Pride Builds will be May 2, July 18, and August 29. The Veteran’s Build will be November 4-7. Sign-ups will be available soon; keep an eye on our website.

How to volunteer

Everyone can make a difference. There is no minimum commitment, and every task helps a family move closer to a safe home. Apply online at habitatejc.org/new-volunteers.

We look forward to welcoming you to the Habitat community and working together to build safe, affordable housing and a more resilient, prosperous East Jefferson County.

Photos, left to right: event planning volunteers Susan, Karen, Cindy and Emily, with Amy (Manager of Volunteer Engagement), at the Habitat Appreciation Party; office volunteer Katy with Habitat staff Beth and Lisa.

Saturday, April 25
Herb Beck Marina, Quilcene

Sponsoring the first annual Blessing of the Fleet is one way we live out our commitment to community. From kayaks to schooners, this event honors the people, work, and traditions that have shaped Quilcene’s waterfront for generations.

That same commitment guides our work to build community and repair homes in Quilcene and Brinnon

Join us at Quilcene’s Herb Beck Marina on Saturday, April 25 for music, boats, and community celebration, and stop by our booth to learn how neighbors can apply to have their home repaired as well as how your support helps create stability for families in our community. Visit here for more information.

Accepting applications for homes in Port Townsend and Port Hadlock

Fling out the old. Find what’s next.

Spring cleaning meets spring savings. Join us April 9-11 for our Spring Fling & Tool Sale event, featuring a tool sale and deep discounts on The Store’s most popular categories. Bring in what you are ready to let go of, then fling yourself into finding something useful, affordable, and full of new life.

Watch our social channels April 9-11 as we announce category discount levels each day.