Howard: Building Futures, one connection at a time
It’s amazing when you can be part of the magic of winter in Eagle County — fresh snow sparkling in the sun and glittering evenings. Many in the community, though, are the behind-the-scenes party makers, who help build the revelry but quietly struggle every day. As winter ramps up and tourists flock to Eagle County, housing becomes even more scarce, expensive and overcrowded.
This is a stressful time of year with holiday have-tos, short days with so much darkness. Building a life in the Vail Valley takes a special kind of persistence and optimism. But to take care of others, we must take care of ourselves first. That means something different for everyone but we all crave connection.
When the seasonal hecticness takes hold and the day-to-day feels overwhelming, try taking a break. Even a short walk with a friend rejuvenates the soul. Explore a trail and let the power of nature boost your, and your friend’s, spirit. Connection is key.
Finding connection can feel arduous, especially if basic needs aren’t met. We see the problems that the lack of secure and stable housing exacerbates. Habitat Vail Valley is here to be a part of the solution. Our work encompasses more than building homeownership. We strive to cultivate community through connection.
We have been a resource within the valley for years. With the advent of our Building Futures program, we have amplified our efforts and are helping people — not just Habitat homeowners — navigate challenges right now. We’ve connected landlords with new tenants. We’ve helped families find food security by connecting them with the local food banks. We’ve connected mental health counselors with people who need a therapist. We’ve helped with financial counseling empowerment, creating more stability and sustainability in their lives. We are creating connections to retain our vital workforce community.
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The Building Futures team meets people where they are and helps them create a roadmap for success. The supports are in place in Eagle County, but oftentimes there are barriers to accessing support. Habitat can help break down those barriers. We’ve learned the best way to connect with the community and gain trust is to be out there, working alongside other organizations, lending a hand without judgment.
We want to connect, talk and meet with anyone in need — anyone is welcome to meet with us and join our growing support network.
Habitat is your resource; if you’re in need or know a friend, family or neighbor who needs assistance, let’s connect. Together we can reduce the greatest stressors, helping people build a more stable life here. When basic needs are addressed, families are more likely to thrive and the community will be strengthened.
It’s snowing as I write this, I have two meetings early tomorrow and a list of gifts to buy. I am going to take my own advice (given to me many years ago by a dear friend) and take a quick hike up Windisch Way so I can breathe the mountain air, reconnect with why I moved here and see the tree lights sparkling.
You can connect with us at:
- Habitat for Humanity Admininistatrion Office at 455 Nottingham Ranch Road, Avon, Monday-Wednesday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
- Habitat ReStore Vail Valley at 250 Lindbergh Drive, Gypsum, Thursday-Friday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
- Bilingual help is available at 970-748-6718 ext. 133
Elyse Howard is the vice president of community affairs and philanthropy. She is always up for a conversation about housing, partnerships and how to build community. Learn more at HabitatVailValley.org.
