Habitat holds New Waves phase two celebration
From staff reports
Six Habitat families are already enjoying the benefits of homeownership in the New Waves community. Beyond expectations, the New Wave homeowners have developed meaningful relationships and created a stronger community than simple structures can build. Visit our website, GlenArbor.com, for a link to hear their story.
The second phase of seven additional Habitat homeownership houses are being built now. Habitat for Humanity would like to invite the community to celebrate at an old-fashioned ice cream social on Thursday, June 12, at 4 pm with an opportunity to learn about and tour these additional New Waves homes.
Leelanau County District One commissioner Richard Robbins, a Habitat volunteer himself, said, “I have seen firsthand the continual need for affordable homeownership. Accessing homeownership remains a daunting challenge for many families in this community, yet the Habitat New Waves development has built an inclusive community of homeowners that will enhance the quality of life for those families, and for everyone in Leelanau County. It is my distinct honor and privilege to celebrate the second phase of the Habitat New Waves development.”
In 2021, New Waves United Church of Christ partnered with Habitat Grand Traverse Region to create the New Waves Community in a prime location near the corner of Bugai Road at M-72. The original plan called for six Habitat homes included in a 14-home development. Once the first homes were built, seeing the success of the homeownership component, the New Waves Church decided to offer the seven additional lots to Habitat for more ownership homes. In an agreement with New Waves, and with 50% funding from the Leelanau County Land Bank Authority, Habitat purchased the seven additional lots and took full management of the project.
The celebration will begin on June 12 at 4 pm with a social period to enjoy Moomers ice cream and meet the community. A brief program will begin at 4:15. Betsy Dole, a New Waves benefactor and driving force behind the original project will offer her comments. She will be joined at the podium by two of the newest Habitat New Waves homeowners, Cori and Jesse Smoker. After their remarks, visitors will have opportunities to walk the property.
