Habitat for Humanity Corvallis, Oregon
About a month ago, I began devoting some time to the Benton county Habitat for Humanity, assisting them with the design and construction of two homes in Philomath Oregon. The two homes are for low income families, and are designed to be very cost effective, sustainable, and ultimately functional. The two houses, or duplex rather, are connected by a party wall, but are intended to feel very much like two seperate residences.
The homes are pursuing a similar green certification to LEED for Homes, and in fact is offered by the same LEED for Homes provider here in Oregon, Earth Advantage. The Earth Advantage rating system covers many, if not all of the same types of environmentally friendly concepts that LEED does. The major difference however, is cost. And when working with a non-profit, the extra 2500$ to go for LEED for Homes is a LOT of money. I am still encouraging LEED for homes on future project, but it is difficult to secure funding especially in these times.
The drawings have been submitted for permit, and we are to begin construction in the next few weeks. So if you are in the area and want to give back, please join us for the volunteer construction sessions. A schedule will be posted on the Benton county Habitat website found here.
Thanks, and please give back!
-Elliot Young