If you have purchased a home recently in Thurston County, you probably know the median housing price is about $525,000. If you recently purchased an affordable home, you probably bought one somewhere in Iowa. Go Cyclones!
With current interest rates and 5% down, you are looking at a payment of about $3,700 here in Thurston. To not be cost burdened with that payment, you would need to be making north of $130,000. That is a huge financial reach for more than one-third of Thurston County households. Even though it is a big hill to climb, there are organizations in our community working on it every day, and they could use your help in a new and unique opportunity.
Thurston County residents are invited to roll up their sleeves and make a meaningful impact on their community with a project called "Our Home," an inspiring volunteer event scheduled for August 23 and 24, 2024. Lasting from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day, the event offers both morning and afternoon shifts, welcoming participants of all experience levels to contribute to various local projects.
The name “Our Home” is meant to be connective. We all call Thurston County home, regardless of our living situation. Creating more stable living environments benefits everyone in our community.
The event is proudly presented by Target, known for its commitment to community initiatives and volunteerism. It is hosted by the United Way of Thurston County, which coordinates efforts in our community to drive lasting change. [Editor's note: Besides his new role as a JOLT columnist, Zach Davis-Price is a staff member at United Way of Thurston County.]
Key partners include Habitat for Humanity, which focuses on building and improving homes for those in need; Rebuilding Together, dedicated to revitalizing communities; Homes First, which provides affordable housing solutions; and Quixote Village, which supports transitional housing for those experiencing homelessness. All these organizations are coming together for the project and would love for you to join them.
Cori Mickelson, the Resource Development and Event Manager for United Way of Thurston County, indicated that "Our Home" will focus on much-needed home repairs and building projects. “Volunteers will assist with essential repairs and improvements to homes in need, ensuring they are safe and comfortable for their residents. No skills are needed to volunteer, but if you do have special talents related to building, we’d love if you would please indicate it on your volunteer registration form,” said Mickelson.
Alongside the volunteer event, “Our Home” will be sharing information about current housing needs in Thurston County. Be sure to check out the social media pages for Habitat for Humanity, Rebuilding Together, Homes First, Quixote Village, and United Way of Thurston County through the month of August.
Volunteering offers numerous benefits beyond the immediate impact on the community. It is a powerful way to give back, develop new skills, and connect with others who share a passion for making a difference. By participating in "Our Home," volunteers will contribute to creating a stronger, more vibrant community, helping to build a brighter future for everyone in Thurston County.
Those interested in participating can sign up online at https://forms.gle/fa6picWW6XRrbft57. The event is open to individuals aged 18 and older. Volunteers are encouraged to wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes to ensure their safety and comfort throughout the day.
The organizers are dedicated to maintaining a safe environment for all participants and will provide clear health guidelines and safety instructions on the event days. For more information about the event, interested parties can contact Cori Mickelson, Resource Development and Events Manager, at cmickelson@unitedway-thurston.org.
Please consider joining Habitat for Humanity, Rebuilding Together, Homes First, Quixote Village, and United Way of Thurston County for this rewarding day of service and be a part of transforming Thurston County. Sign up today and make a significant difference in your community!
Zach Davis-Price is a man of many interests, especially the workings and activities of local nonprofit organizations and volunteer programs. He lives in Tumwater.
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Somney
Basically the median price is much higher than median income unless you have a very large downpayment, which most people do not have.
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