HABITAT FOR HUMANITY

GREATER VANCOUVER

BUILDING
HOPE
ONE
RELATIONSHIP
AT A TIME

Annual Report 2013

Families Preserved, Hopes Fulfilled

and Destinies to Realize

The children at Government Streets Habitat community

are most definitely the integral driving force of what it
means to be part of a community. The children are the heart
and soul here. We have had so many get-togethers, birthday
parties (kids, and adults alike). A real sense of belonging
and community happens here. We feel safe. Our children,
and we as parents, feel so happy and safe. We watch out for
one another, and most importantly, we watch out for one
anothers children. Home. We are absolutely home.
Lisa Fedorak, Habitat Partner Family

Vision
A world where everyone has a safe and
decent place to live

Mission
To mobilize volunteers and community
partners in building affordable housing and
promoting homeownership as a means to
breaking the cycle of poverty.

Values
HOUSING FOR ALL: We believe that access to

safe, decent and affordable housing is a basic

human right that should be available to all.
HUMAN DIGNITY: We believe in the worth

and dignity of every human being. We

respect the people we serve and those that
help us in this effort and recognize them as
our greatest resource.
PARTNERSHIP: We believe we can best

Board of Directors
Our Partners in Decision
Making
Our volunteer board of directors generously donate their
time and expertise to ensure that our annual objectives as
a non-profit organization are met successfully. They serve
with dedication and commitment and we are grateful for
their support and guidance on strategic direction, financial
decisions and the overall governance of our chapter.

Our Board Partners

Tim Clark - CEO
Gordon MacPherson Board Chair
Vida Morkunas - Vice Chair

achieve our mission through meaningful and

mutually beneficial partnerships with others.

Jennifer Kwok Treasurer

FAITH IN ACTION: We believe that faith

Oliver Hamilton Director

in lived through action. Building on our

Christian foundation, we serve and work
with people of all faiths and beliefs in a spirit
of justice and compassion.
DIVERSITY & INCLUSIVENESS: We believe

there is a role for everyone committed to our

vision, mission, and values and we seek to
enrich our organization through diversity.

Cherie L.W. Mah Secretary

Jamal Temirova Director

The cornerstone of Habitats success is our partnership
framework that connects our community partners, volunteers,
employees, families and the home building industry in a
common vision, home-by-home and personto-person. We are
proud of the local support we have built in Vancouver and the
homes that we have produced for families in need.

Table of Contents

Vision, Mission & Values

CEO and Board Chair Message

The Habitat Model

Partner Families

A Hand Up, Not A Hand Out

Ash Street Project, Richmond

Milestones and Accomplishments

10

Community Partners

11

Partner Family Spotlight

12 Volunteers

Habitat for Humanity Greater Vancouver

14

Volunteer Spotlight

15

ReStore: ReThink Where you Shop

16

Restore: Community Partners

17

Restore: The Environmental Impact

18

Habitats Social Responsibility

19

Truck Fleet Drivers

21

Our Generous Community Partners

22

Financial Highlights

CEO AND BOARD CHAIR MESSAGE

Relationships are our Foundation

Habitat for Humanity Greater Vancouver in 2013, continued on a

path of accountability and successful achievements, to deliver a
stronger future for our partner families by following our mission to
mobilize volunteers and community partners in building affordable
housing and promoting homeownership as a means to breaking
the cycle of poverty.
Every single moment spent with our amazing community partners, volunteers,
partner families, Board members and staff at Habitat for Humanity Greater
Vancouver is truly a humbling experience. It is the strength and commitment of
our community relationships that brings us all closer to building a stronger sense
of community. It is through these meaningful and mutually beneficial partnerships
with others that our efforts, successes, and alliances with other organizations
and governments have set the stage for the work ahead. Our relationships are the
foundation for positive change, transforming lives and experiences.
Tim Clark,
CEO

Given the challenges we faced as an organization last year it is easy to lose sight
of the significant strides that we actually made. When we reflect back over the
last year, 2013 was definitely a year chalk full of milestones and accomplishments.
Our greatest achievements being the completion of Government Street, Burnaby,
offering six new partner families, inclusive of 17 wonderful children, the security
of homeownership and of course the purchase of our next build site, 8180 Ash
Street, Richmond.
With an eye to the future and the continued commitment to provide affordable
homeownership we will maximize our expertise and strengths to position Habitat
for Humanity Greater Vancouver, for the longer term, as leaders in providing
affordable homes to families in need through ongoing relationship building and
partner family empowerment.
It is with heartfelt gratitude that we thank all of our incredibly brave partner
families, dedicated volunteers, generous community partners, inspirational Board
members, and tireless staff engagement. It is because of these relationships that
families will be empowered to build their own futures.

Gordon MacPherson,
Board Chair

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

THE HABITAT MODEL

Building a Better Tomorrow for Families

Habitat for Humanity is different from other affordable housing options. It starts
with a partner family contributing 500 hours of sweat equity towards building their
home. We offer low-income working families a hand up, not a hand out. Our partner
families are empowered by becoming owners of property. They buy the homes we
build at fair market value, through a no-interest mortgage and with no down-payment.
Habitat families have stability and security in knowing they do not pay more than 30%
of family income for mortgage payments, insurance and property taxes. This hand
up gives them a home they can afford, a chance to add to savings, and a way to break
free from the cycle of poverty.

On behalf of myself and my

family, I wish to express our
thanks to Habitat for Humanity,
volunteers, sponsors and all
those who directly or indirectly

Habitat for Humanity works because we bring together community, businesses and
volunteers to build safe, decent, affordable homes that are completely paid for by
the time they are built. Mortgage payments are reinvested directly into a fund to
build more Habitat for Humanity homes, known as the Fund for Humanity. This
revolving fund leverages current mortgage payments into more homes for more
low-income families. Over time, the Fund for Humanity will grow into a sustainable
funding source, reducing the need for outside funding sources. It is one more way
that Habitat for Humanitys partner families give back to their community.

contributed to this project.

But what really sets Habitat for Humanity apart from all other affordable housing
options is the return to taxpayers on an investment in Habitats affordable
homeownership homes. Other housing options leave families continuing to depend
on taxpayers to subsidize the annual operating costs for their social housing units.
With Habitat for Humanity, our partner families not only assume responsibility for
the cost of running and maintaining their homes, they pay back taxpayers as much
as $3,600 on average through property taxes each year.

everyone involved

Habitat for Humanity Greater Vancouver

Without them, our dream of

having a roof over us would
have been just that a dream.
Our belief in the goodness of
humanity has been enhanced by

Nawaz Soomro,
Habitat Partner Family

PARTNER FAMILIES

Power to Change Lives for the Better

Criteria
There are three criteria to qualify for a Habitat home:
1. N
 eed for affordable housing. The family income is within the recognized government-set low-income guidelines
for their particular region and inadequate living conditions exist in terms of structure, cost, safety or size,
2. A
 bility to repay a Habitat mortgage. The family requires a stable income sufficient to cover the monthly mortgage
payments and other expenses that come with homeownership. Household income must fall between predetermined
minimums and maximums based on family size; and
3. Willingness to partner with Habitat. Families are required to invest 500 hours of sweat equity which serves to
build self-esteem, pride of ownership, and a feeling of community.

Selection Process

APPLICATION

FIRST
SCREENING

FIRST
INTERVIEW

CREDIT
CHECK/INCOME
VERIFICATION

HOME VISIT

REFERENCES/
POLICE
CHECKS

FAMILIES
SELECTED
FOR FAMILY
HOMES

How Partner Families are Chosen

Each family is required to complete a detailed application
form, which is then screened by our Family Selection
Committee, a staff-supported group of volunteers who
represent all aspects of society.
Family finances and credit ratings are carefully reviewed
before the committee members interview the family in their
home. References provided by the family are checked and
communication is made with the landlord and employers.
Once selected, an agreement is signed and the family is required
to volunteer 500 hours of sweat equity before they are eligible to
purchase their home.
We offer many ways to complete the sweat equity hours
including helping in the ReStore, assisting in fundraising
efforts, labouring on someone elses home and, of course,
working on their own home.
Families are required to attend workshops to help them learn
about the responsibilities of homeownership. They cover
topics such as setting goals, budgeting, use of credit, problem
solving and how to be part of a strata. They are designed to
prepare the family for the financial, property and community
responsibilities that come with owning a home.
ANNUAL REPORT 2013

A HAND UP, NOT A HAND OUT

Benefits to Partner
Families and the Larger
Community
Habitat for Humanity provides access to a simple, decent home
through a no-interest, no down payment mortgage, making
affordable homeownership possible for low-income Greater
Vancouver Families each year.
Over time, the families equity in their home increases. Habitat
families can often see an improvement in their financial situation
since the percentage of their income being spent on housing remains
at 30 percent. Prior to purchasing a Habitat home many of these
families spend over 50-70 percent of their income on rent.
A safe, healthy living environment contributes to the positive growth
and development of the family. Studies sponsored by Canadian
Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) and The University of
Guelph in 2004 and 2012 have provided strong evidence that Habitat
families become healthier, happier, experience improvements
in education and financial position, and are contributors to the
community rather than reliant on government assistance.
Habitat projects also offer an opportunity for community members,
of all walks of life, to come together and work side by side in a
meaningful way.
Pride of ownership leads to a renewed sense of confidence, and along
with their stable, long-term housing arrangement, they become longterm contributors to the community and the local economy.

Habitat for Humanity Greater Vancouver

58%

of families report they are better off

financially now than before they moved
into their Habitat home

36%

were less reliant on social assistance

65%

report their childrens confidence has

improve

70%

report improved health including reduced

illnesses

89%

say their family life has improved

86%

reported being happier since moving into

their Habitat home

THE ASH STREET PROJECT, RICHMOND

More Families in More Homes

On January 27, 2014, another landmark Habitat for Humanity Vancouver project
became a reality. A 25,000 square foot parcel of land was purchased from BC Housing
by Habitat at a discounted rate for a project to be developed at 8180 Ash Street in
Richmond. With this significant land transfer, Habitats reach is set to expand by 43%,
providing more affordable housing for families in Greater Vancouver. The plans call
for the construction of six affordable homes, each with rental suites.
This rental component is part of a new model for Habitat for Humanity Greater
Vancouver and was created to address the incredible need in our extremely
expensive housing market. The new family partners will benefit from the rental
income as it will be applied directly towards their mortgages. The impact of this
model will have homeowners paying off their mortgages sooner, while allowing
renters with minimal to moderate wages to live in safe, clean and affordable housing.
Twelve families will be given a hand up out of the cycle of poverty.

We didnt have to think about

the opportunity too much, says
David OSheehan, a principal of
the firm, one of our suppliers,
Ledcor, contacted us to see if we
would be interested in helping
Habitat for Humanity. Its a good
project, we like the site. Well
see it through to the end, doing
whatever it takes to get it there.

Partner family applicants for the rental suites will be accepted based on the Habitat for
Humanity homeownership partner family criteria which has been slightly modified
to accommodate a lower income threshold. Through their generous donation our
community partners for the project, Abbarch Architecture Inc. and PWL Landscape
Architects have committed to design both the building and landscape architecture for
Ash Street. Our vision and their expertise have been pooled to create a community
of homes where families come together over shared pathways, gardens, gathering
areas, and a communal playground. We strive to build not just homes, but inclusive
communities that put our Partner Families on a path to success.

PWL Partnership is honoured to partner withHabitat for Humanity to create a special community project within
the City of Richmond. This project is so important for the families that will live here, grow here, and connect here.
The shared community living concept embedded in this project will benefit both the individual families and also the
Richmond community at large. While providing residents with opportunities to grow their own food and connect to the
land, it will also blend in with the existing neighbourhood and enhance the public realm. At the heart of this project
is a community garden and communal space where residents can meet, socialize, grow food, rest, and where children
can play.Gardening and growing food helps facilitate community connections and has proven to be highly therapeutic
and rewarding. PWL Partnership is a strong supporter of this concept of housing and development and the benefits it
provides to families, the environment and the larger community.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

Milestones and Accomplishments

JANUARY, 2013

Closed the deal to Purchase 8180 Ash Street, Richmond

APRIL 2013

New Restore opened in North Vancouver on Harbour Street

JUNE 2013

Phase 6 of 8745 Government Street Townhomes in Burnaby completed

Six new partner families, inclusive of 17 wonderful children, move into their homes
Habitat for Humanity ReStores awarded the Excellence in Retail Award from the
Retail Council of Canada.

APRIL DECEMBER 2013

The Vancouver Restore was renovated with the incredible energy and
enthusiasm of 16 corporate build groups consisting of over 256 individuals
volunteering 1,792 hours of labour

Habitat for Humanity Greater Vancouver

COMMUNITY PARTNERS

The Impact of
Our Community
Relationships
Relationships at Habitat for Humanity Greater
Vancouver are the vital and driving energy of
our organizations success. Beyond generosity,
our many partners bring genuine concern,
commitment and determination to see Habitat
families prosper, thrive and succeed. Every
home is the result of the many relationships that
have collaborated to fulfill our common cause
with dignity and respect.
As we look back on 2013 we want to
recognize the energy and dedication of our
Community Partners and relationships we
have benefited from throughout the year. You
volunteer, coordinate events, get your hands
dirty, build, raise funds, donate, give time,
contribute hope, and most importantly, provide
a legacy foundation for our partner families for
generations to come. Simply put, you are our
success. We would like to highlight and thank
our many dedicated and stead-fast supporters
for your wonderful commitment to Habitat for
Humanity Greater Vancouver.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

10

PARTNER FAMILY SPOTLIGHT

Meet Margaret Van Essen

Habitat for Humanity exists for one single purpose; to assist families
who are without the means to secure a home to live and grow.
Typically, despite best efforts, our partner families are vulnerable
and trapped in a low-income cycle that limits their ability to make
financial progress and safeguarding lasting family stability. This is the
story of Margaret Van Essen, who as a single mom of eight children,
turned to Habitat for Humanity for assistance to help secure a home
for herself and her three remaining youngest children.

Life had landed Margaret and her boys

in an area of the lower mainland that
had numerous societal problems. She
was fearful that the living conditions
there would have a life-long negative
impact on her family. A friend had told
her about Habitat for Humanity and she
pursued the option immediately, but the
process took three years to complete.
In 2009, Margaret and her boys Yahoel,
Yahoshibah and Shemuel found a new
place to live the newly built Habitat
for Humanity home on Government
Street, in Burnaby. Once moved in,
Margarets life and that of her three
youngest sons began to flourish and
thrive in an environment that was safe,
financially secure and free from fear.
As she carefully reviewed the impact
of her familys Habitat journey, she
said with all sincerity, It gave us a
normal life. My children could play in
safety, they were educated by teachers
who really cared about them, and
most importantly, they developed
very healthy attitudes about life and
how to become responsible citizens.
The Habitat values became a part of
their daily lives. Her voice was full of
optimism when she shared; For me, it
gave me a choice to love with fullness,
without the distraction of fear and to

11

be autonomous, self-sufficient and to

plan for my future years. Her boys
grown and ready to leave the nest,
Margaret is now looking to buy her
own home with the mortgage money
she invested over the last several years.
When asked by his mother about the
impact of Habitat in his life her son
Yahoel shared; Habitat for Humanity
completely changed my direction in
life.Before Habitat for Humanity we lived
in a shaky neighbourhood and my life
had been heavily influenced by crime and
what I consider now low-class society.
It was difficult for my family to develop
a good family life in the midst of all the
stress and worry. At the time it did not
look good for our family.
He continued, When I was 14 we
got the news wed been selected for a
Habitat home and at 16, we moved to
Burnaby. The area was very convenient
for all and peaceful. I made new friends
and was able to pull away from the bad
influences. My life began to steer in a
positive direction. My family had more
money for food and day-to-day living, in
general our quality of living increased.
Since we had stability I was able to go to
university and now Ive graduated with a
degree in Business Administration.

Habitat for Humanity Greater Vancouver

Im building my life on the foundation

our family was able to build through
Habitat for Humanitys generosity.We
now have a positive outlook for our
future and can hope for better things.
The impact of Habitat was also shared
by his brother Shemuel; It was
better because we didnt have to keep
moving around so much, and I liked
school much more than I did before.
Everything was just better.
For Habitat for Humanity the story
doesnt get any better than this
the Van Essen family has blossomed
and grown with a sense of lifes
purpose that is prosperous, healthy,
independent and confident. Margaret
is keenly aware that her determined
persistence all those years ago, will
have had an impact and affect future
generations of the Van Essen family.
Stability builds confidence and a deeper
sense of commitment to others and in
turn, your community. The Van Essen
family has grown strong supportive
roots that will carry them forward in
life knowing that they were once given
a hand up, not a hand out.

VOLUNTEERS

Our Loyal Community

Volunteers
Putting more families in more homes faster is a result of one of
our most valuable Habitat assets our outstanding volunteers.
We are so very grateful for their commitment of time, vitality and
enthusiasm that they share so generously with us day-after-day,
month-after-month and for many of them, year-after-year. Having
them by our side to share our message of hope for families is
truly a gift!
On October 7, 2013, World Habitat Day, Habitat for Humanity
Greater Vancouver honoured our volunteers for their countless
hours of service to the organization. As many volunteers had not
met one another due to different locations and schedules this
was a great opportunity for all to see the true depth of volunteer
support and celebrate their goodwill together. The evening, fully
sponsored by the Delta Vancouver Suites and the Delta Vancouver
Airport Hotel, featured the Drum Caf (an interactive and energetic
activity), a chef created incredible five course meal, much laughter
and recognition of significant volunteer milestones by staff and the
Board of Directors. Volunteers are at the core of our ability to fulfill
our mission and for all that they give, we are honoured.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

12

Volunteering By The Numbers

VOLUNTEERS

Build Days

The Foundation of
Our Success
Our Volunteers!
Habitat for Humanity Greater Vancouver has been the
recipient of some great volunteering through the years. One
cold, wet January morning saw 40 UBC International Students
arrived for some heavy lifting. Their task that day was a dirty,
heavy and labour intensive one as they emptied and sorted
tools and material from the old Burnaby Build Site containers
to ready them for our next build in Richmond. Additionally,
they were tasked with the sorting, separating and disposal of
unusable wood and recyclable metal from the Burnaby ReStore
yard to make space for more saleable product.
The students worked hard, made a difference, supplied
enthusiasm and youthful fervor to complete a job no one really
wanted to tackle. But they did it!

240

1680
hours

weeks

42

$34,000

256

1792

44.8

$36,000

people

people

224

tons of gravel
Habitat for Humanity Greater Vancouver

weeks

labour

OTHER COMMITMENTS

In 2013, 32 volunteer groups donated their muscle, energy,

expertise AND contributed financially. This outstanding
collaboration of resources allows us to break the cycle of
poverty for more families.

13

hours

labour

632

plants

2400

sq. ft. of turf

16

dump trucks

VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT

What Drives Silvano Girardi?

Silvano started his volunteering career with Meals on Wheels but wanted to help
the community just a little bit more. Why, because, like most Habitat for Humanity
volunteers he likes to help others. In 2009 he started with Habitat for Humanity
Greater Vancouver as a volunteer in the Vancouver Restore. Retired and healthy,
Silvano is happy that he has the time and energy to support meaningful causes like
Habitat for Humanity.
He had heard of Habitat for Humanity and wanted to come here to play. One day
he was given a list of items that needed to be taken care of during his volunteer shift.
Well, Silvano shared that he had a honey do list at home and when he comes to
Habitat, he doesnt need to have another one, so, with that said If I can come and
go and enjoy and myself and work independently, I would make the commitment.
Silvano no longer gets a to do list at Habitat but is always happy to take requests.
Silvano by nature loves to help and as he said, gets a kick out of it. He is here once a
week testing donated electronics, tools and other products. Silvanos dedication goes
beyond just his hours in the ReStore as he sometimes uses his own money to buy
a small missing part that will mean a product can be sold for a higher price in the
ReStore. He loves what he can do for the organization while he has time available.
Since October of 2009 he has registered 542 hours with Habitat for Humanity
Greater Vancouver. Now there is a winning partnership!

Silvano Girardi,
Habitat for Vancouver Volunteer,
since 2009

VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT

Carrol Whitwell A Habitat for Humanity

Volunteer Extraordinaire
Carrol Whitwell has been a regular volunteer with Habitat for Humanity Greater
Vancouver for the last two years seeing her invest over 800 hours at the Vancouver
ReStore. She has always been socially aware and mindfully conscientious of making
a difference in her community blooming where she is planted so to speak.
It is her belief that everyone deserves a hand up, which drives her dedication to
helping others. Having spent her career as a teacher and a union representative she
long ago realized that not everyone gets the same breaks in life. With this realization
she wanted to make a commitment to a worthwhile cause that made a difference
in the community. Thats what brought her to Habitat the combination of a good
cause, helping families in need and the opportunity to be of genuine and committed
service to her community.
Being a volunteer with the Vancouver ReStore provides her with the opportunity
to give back and help others to move forward in life. For Carrol that is what is
important - giving back where possible .We are very proud to have her as our Habitat
volunteer extraordinaire!

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

14

Supported by hundreds of dedicated volunteers and donors, the Habitat ReStores

are not only a depot for used and reclaimed construction materials and home dcor
items, they are the financial engine that supports the general operations of Habitat
for Humanity Greater Vancouver while also providing, net revenue for building
homes. Our three ReStores divert over 1,800 tons of usable material from our local
landfill annually.
Essential to the success of every ReStore in Greater Vancouver and Habitats
ability to build homes as a means to end the cycle of poverty, are our corporate
community partners.
The Home Depot is by far our largest partner as they donate an average of four,
five-ton truck- loads of merchandise for resale every week. The national partnership
with The Home Depot and The Home Depot Canada Foundation has led to over $47
million in cash and product being donated Canada-wide since 1996 - $7.7 million
in 2013 alone. The Home Depot is focused on addressing shelter challenges that
affect our youth. They are part of our foundation and their generosity and ongoing
commitment is truly remarkable.
Habitat for Humanity Greater Vancouver is equally grateful that many of our
corporate partners are invested in a long-term commitment and support the ReStore
efforts by donating resalable goods on a regular basis. Donations and purchases from
individuals and companies large and small are the backbone of our success as we
work to generate revenue for the homes we build. We strongly encourage everyone
to Rethink Where They Shop by supporting a local ReStore.

15

Habitat for Humanity Greater Vancouver

COMMUNITY PARTNERS

Our Loyal ReStorers

Bryan York and ReStore staffer,
Everton Bennett.

Recycling and up
cycling are a huge
environmental benefit
that just makes sense.
Bryan York

It takes the contributions of many to carry on the building of Habitat Homes.

Bryan York and her husband are just one example of the many generous
community partners that make up Greater Vancouvers commitment to Habitat
for Humanity. Having worked in the construction industry for many years, they
understand that to raise a productive family, it is best to give them a hand up,
and a not a hand out Bryan says: because it allows a recipient to feel a sense of
accomplishment and build a sense of ownership. She believes the Habitat ReStore
model is different from giving money because it has a human-to-human value
if you give something away it is used by someone else, perpetuating the models
future with every partner donation.
Bryan and her family also believe in the green impact of the ReStore Social
Enterprise model as recycling and up cycling are a huge environmental benefit
that just makes sense. Bryan donates because she loves the idea that something
that is no longer of use to her might help make another persons home beautiful.
Paying it forward and sharing her good fortune with others makes Bryan and her
family characteristic of many of our community partners.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

16

Cardboard Recycling Program

THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

ReStoring Our Universe

The social enterprise of the Habitat ReStore model has a
significant environmental impact by diverting thousands
of tons annually of reusable and resalable goods bound for
the landfill. These items are sold to the general public at 5080% of retail costs and in turn contribute to the well-being
of the economy.

Light Metals Recycling Statistics

In 2013 we recycled more than 110,900 pounds
(55 metric tons) of tin and light metal materials
through our arrangement with community partners
Schnitzer Metals. The value of the materials resulted
in a cash contribution of $ 5,320.75 towards our
annual operational cost. This program is being
expanded in 2014.

This well fed, seven day a week social enterprise model has
far reaching consequences as it provides a program not only
of self-sufficiency, but also safeguards the environment from
the stock-pile of reusable/recyclable materials. The ReStores
ensure that all items that can be recycled are; Styrofoam,
metal, ferrous metal, batteries, light bulbs, soft and hard
plastics, appliances, wood and cardboard, all find their end
at a recycler versus a landfill.
Urban Impact is one of our community partners in
environmental stewardship. Their weekly collection of
our Vancouver ReStore cardboard is generously donated.
The Impact of this donation reaches far beyond our social
responsibility and allows us to reduce our carbon footprint.

110,900 lbs.
of light metal materials
recycled in 2013

17

Habitat for Humanity Greater Vancouver

$5,320

towards annual
operational cost

HABITATS SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

Habitats Outreach to the Community

YMCA Job-Skills Training Program
Habitat for Humanity Greater Vancouver realizes that it is vital to recognize that when one is in the position of receiving from
the community, you have a social responsibility to give back as well. Our union with the YMCA is one where we give back and
happily so. Joined by a common goal to see our community prosper and succeed the YMCA job-skills program is a perfect fit
with Habitat for Humanity Greater Vancouver. For the last year the YMCA has provided job ready students with their first work
experience being in the Habitat Restores.
The program, which is managed by Clare Davey of Habitat for Humanity Greater Vancouver, is into its first year of facilitation.
When asked about the program Clare is keen to recognize the value to both, Habitat and the students, Its been a wonderful
collaboration for us and has really worked out well. Habitat ReStore Manager, Suzanne Hoffman is also a proud supporter of the
program, as she can see the genuine results of the students progress and capacity to work in a retail environment. We really have
seen the students grow from really shy and awkward initially to using the stores public announcement system without hesitation,
said Hoffman.
In the last year Habitat has provided six students with placements in either one of our three ReStores as sales associates or the
Society office as administrative support. We provide the candidates with the opportunity to learn everything from the daily
running of the store or office to more individual tasks and experiences in their preferred areas of the business.

Working for the ReStore in Vancouver, Ive learned

customer service skills, communication, retail experience
and pricing. Its been good for me and has helped me
learn new things.
Ryan T.

I found working with the YMCA Habitat program really

very helpful. It helped me to focus on my strengths and to
overcome my weaknesses. I really liked how everyone focuses
on you as a person. That built up my confidence and helped
me secure a good job with the Vancouver ReStore as an
employee. It worked out really well for me.
Sam G.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

18

TRUCK FLEET DRIVERS

Habitats Rock Stars

The retail product, thanks to the generous donations of our community partners, is
constantly changing in our three Habitat for Humanity Greater Vancouver ReStores.
The one constant, however, consists of three amazing individuals. This team
nicknamed by our CEO, Tim Clark, as her Rock Stars not only manages the daily
demands of picking up and delivering resalable goods to the three Restore locations
in Metro Vancouver, they are also the face and public ambassadors of Habitat for
Humanity Greater Vancouver. Mike, Everton and Gary are the vital link between
our generous community and corporate partners and the long-term sustainability of
the Habitat ReStores.
Our Rock Stars always show up with a smile and an enthusiastic handshake for
everyone they meet along their journey. Simply put, they are the drive and energy
our ReStores need to work.

Gary Booth: Five Ton Driver

Gary Booth, one of our most engaging rock stars joined Habitat in 2013 and ever
since his energetic and cheeky behaviour has brought a smile to everyone he has come
into contact with. At the crack of dawn Gary is en route to meet one of the Home
Depot Return to Vendor Managers picking up resalable goods for the Habitat ReStores
in Greater Vancouver. His friendly demeanour is reflective of his genuine nature.
Gary has become widely known by the Home Depot staff as he arrives each morning
with a fresh cup of Tim Hortons in hand and a big smile for all on deck. He is
definitely the face of Habitat and many on his route look forward to his greeting
at the crack of dawn with a cheerful Hey Gary, Good to see you! He jumps out
of his truck and swings into action happy to be a part of an organization that
makes a difference in our community. Gary loves to laugh and his joy is infectious.
Our Habitat office is always cheered by his arrival at the end of a day as he comes
in search of popsicles (orange preferred)! The enthusiasm that Gary exudes is truly
remarkable. He is a rock star extraordinaire and hes all ours!

1t

~780
individual pickups

5t

~936
individual pickups

19

Habitat for Humanity Greater Vancouver

10,515km
travelled in 2013

24,050km

520

travelled in 2013

Trips to nine
Lower Mainland
Home Depots

500+

Cups of
Tim Hortons
Coffee
consumed

Everton Bennett: One Ton Driver

Mike Swindells: One Ton Driver

If you think navigating the streets of Vancouver are

difficult try keeping up with the daily innovative Everton
handshake. Always with a warm smile, genuine hug, and of
course the hand-shake of the day, Everton sets the days tone
for all of us here at Habitat for Humanity Greater Vancouver.

Mike was one of the first Rock Stars to join the Habitat
family. There is no task too obscure for Mike to take on. A
willing heart and positive attitude easily makes Mike our goto-guy. Mike has the responsibility of driving the ReStore one
ton truck around the Lower Mainland loading up items that
can be refurbished, restored or just resold as is in one of the
three Habitat for Humanity Greater Vancouver ReStores.

Everton began his career with Habitat as a ReStore volunteer

in 2012. Since joining the staff at Habitat for the last a year
and half Everton has fulfilled multiple roles. We are unable
to create job description for Everton as he does everything.
If youve ever called for a household pick-up then you have
been fortunate enough to encounter his positive outlook, and
compassion for others.
When not riding shotgun on the one ton with his buddy
Mike, he can be found renovating at the ReStores, assisting
with Build Site needs, or working alongside and mentoring
volunteer groups who have offered their time.
Everton says, I get up every morning glad to be going to
work, in a job that I love, with people who make me happy
and Im contributing to an organization that I greatly admire.
Everton, we have a handshake for that its a high five!

Additionally, Mike also rides shotgun in the office

coordinating the pick-ups from businesses and households
throughout Greater Vancouver. Well okay he is also our
Tech savvy go-to-guy, our fix it repair person, volunteer
coordinator, and most importantly - he lets us play with Link
(his golden retriever) when he comes to the office for a visit.
When asked about working for Habitat Mike is quick to
respond, I love working here! Its the best job Ive ever had. I
love meeting our community partners, working with the other
drivers, and making a difference in the lives of others! It just
doesnt get any better!

Always sharing their passion and caring, our Rock Stars are true ambassadors of
Habitat for Humanity Greater Vancouver and valued contributors to breaking the cycle of
poverty for many partner families.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

20

Our Generous Community Partners

January 2013-December 2013
We are grateful for all donations of cash and in kind gifts. Gifts of over $1,000 for which a receipt
has been issued are recognized here for the 2013 fiscal year.
2013 Community Partners
Gold $500,000 +
BC Housing

Silver $250,000+
Vancity

Developer $50,000 +
Alpha Group (Alpha Technologies)

Ground Breakers $ 25,000 +

Nissan Canada Inc.
BC Social Venture Partners Vancouver

Craftsmen $ 10,000 +
Genstar Development Company
Genworth Financial Canada
RBC Foundation
TD Canada Trust
The Brick
The Home Depot Canada Foundation
Builders $5,000 +
Ausenco Engineering
Cana Coast Equities Ltd
Hilti (Canada) Corp
Kryton International
Old Navy
Ricoh Canada Inc.
Turner Construction

Champion $1,000 +
Best Buy Canada
Community Savings Credit Union
Dan Haugseng
Delta Burnaby Hotel & Conference Centre
Delta Vancouver Airport
Delta Vancouver Suites
Dozyn Dezyn
Edelman
GIVE Group
HYDRECS Fund
IATSE Local 891
International Union of Operating Engineers
Jobs Construction
MacQuarie Group Foundation
Marketplace Events
Sandy Strukoff
Teema Solutions Group Inc.
Wayne Helfrich

Gift-in-Kind and ReStore Partners

Gold $500,000 +
The Home Depot

Silver $250,000 +
Mr. and Mrs. S. Jones

Ground Breakers $25,000 +

KPMG LLP Vancouver

Craftsmen $10,000 +
Allran Electric
Armstrong Mechanical
Columbia Street Holdings Ltd.
Interior Design Institute of BC
Metropolitan Hardwood Floors, Inc.
Norburn Lighting Div. BA Robinson
Russell Industries Ltd.
The Brick
The Hudson Bay Company
Vitrum Glass Group
Builders $5,000 +
Rory Matheson
Atlas Pots Ltd.
Dryco Building Supplies
Mainland Sand & Gravel
Ms. Sabine Thoering
Primesource Building Products Canada

21

Habitat for Humanity Greater Vancouver

Champion $1,000 +
Aaron Davis
Ames Tile & Stone Ltd.
Banner Carpets Ltd.
BMS Plumbing and Mechanical Systems Ltd.
Brent Comber Originals
C&S Tile Distributors
CanStore Rentals Ltd
Cathy McDonald
Clive and Carol Ann Jackson
Cowry Cabinets Inc.
David Cannell
E Roko Distributors Ltd.
Edgewater Site Contracting Ltd.
Erv Parent Co Ltd.
Karnak Pro Builders Ltd.
Kingstar Products
Mary Kersey
Monarch Paving Ltd.
Ms. Linda N. Perkovic
North Shore News
Piroche Plants
Provide Home Inc.
RCABC Guarantee Corp
Tim Clark
Weatherguard Exteriors

Financial Highlights
HABITATS REVENUES
$3,058,312
9%
5%

2013

20%
3%

Proceeds
60%

Fund Raising Expenses

Net Contributions, Grants and Donations

17%
2013

497,767

59%

(129,934)

(180,346)

-28%

659,242

317,421

108%

1,848,422

1,737,432

6%

(1,392,372) (1,079,647)

29%

ReStore Operations
ReStore Revenue
ReStore Operating Expenses

HABITATS EXPENDITURES
$2,289,212

Net ReStore Operations

456,050

657,785

-31%

385,165

542,760

-29%

(102,443)

(901,689)

-89%

$2,705,391
33%

Constructed Properties (1)

Sale Proceeds (2)

61%

789,176

2012

Sale of constructed properties sold

Interest
ReStore revenues
Contributions, grants and donations

4%

Contributions, Grants and Donations

60%

26%

2012

$2,893,259

40%

6%

6%

29%

21%

Cost of Constructed Properties

Net Proceeds from Constructed Properties

2013

282,722

(358,929) -179%

2012

Cost of constructed properties

Restore operations
Fundraising expenses and depreciation
Administration

HABITATS ASSETS
$5,619,193

General Administration Expenses

Administration

(664,463)

(534,225)

24%

(11,838)

(9,484)

25%

(676,301)

(543,709)

24%

Interest Revenue

137,992

115,299

20%

Excess of Revenues over Expenditures

859,705

187,867

358%

Depreciation
Total General Administrative Expenses

$4,625,250

50%
65%

1%

1%

45%

29%
4%

2013

5%

Mortgages receivable
Equipment
Property under construction
Cash and term deposits

Note (1) The last 6 units at 8745 Government Street are anticipated to be sold in 2014. In 2013, the

2012

Society also repurchased 2 strata units at 66 West Cordova St and are anticipated to be resold in 2014.
Note (2) Sales proceeds from property have been discounted at an imputed interest rate of 3.75%.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

22

69 W. 69th Avenue
Vancouver, BC V5X 2W6
Phone: 604.681.5618
Email: info@habitatgv.ca
www.habitatgv.ca

facebook.com/hfhvancouver
twitter.com/hfhgv_ReStore
flickr.com/photos/hfhgv

BURNABY RESTORE

2475 Douglas Road

Burnaby, BC V6C 5A9
Phone: 604.293.1898
NORTH VANCOUVER RESTORE

126 Harbour Avenue

North Vancouver, BC V7J 2E4
Phone: 604.985.5618
VANCOUVER RESTORE

69 West 69th Avenue

Vancouver, BC V5X 2W6
Phone: 604.326.3055

Charitable Registration Number:

88198 3183 RR001

Partner Families, Government Street, Burnaby, B.C.