Breaking the cycle of poverty - Habitat for Humanity and MarineMax partner up
by Lisa Harrison 1 Jul 2020 08:37 PDT
2020 Habitat for Humanity ceremony © MarineMax
For the third year in a row, MarineMax partnered with Habitat for Humanity to present a deserving family the keys to their new home in Clearwater, Florida.
"A Habitat for Humanity house dedication ceremony is life-changing," states Brett McGill, MarineMax Chief Executive Officer and President. "The pandemic presented challenges, but our leadership team came out to celebrate the occasion and honor the Taylor family."
On the morning of June 23, 2020, a single mother with twin 13-year-old's, an 11-year-old, and a 3-year-old received keys to their new home. MarineMax chooses to partner with Habitat for Humanity because their core values and mission are closely aligned. They wanted something that helps local communities and involves teamwork outside of the typical work environment.
McGill continues, "when you take time to volunteer, you hear the history of Habitat and it's a moment that sets you back and makes you say - WOW! Their mission is very powerful. MarineMax has dedicated three houses, but we've been a part of two or three more builds. I started with them seven years ago because community service is significant to my family and me. And it never gets old. Every year you see smiling faces from volunteers and you get to meet a new, deserving family."
Habitat for Humanity helps low-income families purchase a house with a zero-interest mortgage to build generational wealth and equity in the family, breaking the cycle of poverty. Recipients participate in educational seminars to set them up for success and work alongside sponsors to accrue 350 to 450 "sweat equity hours."
A decent home offers the strength, stability, and independence that families need to thrive. Through donations and volunteer efforts, Habitat for Humanity houses are accessible in all 50 U.S. states and more than 70 other countries. MarineMax looks forward to continuing its long-standing relationship with Habitat for Humanity for many years to come.
Hear more about Habitat for Humanity's mission from Mr. Mike Sutton, President and Chief Executive Officer of Pinellas and West Pasco Counties, on MarineMax's show From The Helm Boating Broadcast. The interview will premiere on Facebook and YouTube on Thursday, July 2, at 11:00 am EDT.
For more information, visit marinemax.com/connect/lifestyles/from-the-helm.