A small item in a recent Mining Journal has a lot of people in the area talking, if for no other reason, the sheer positivity of it all.

The story related to the Marquette County Habitat for Humanity organization’s approach to a significant milestone: It has broken ground on the 109th home it will have built.

The structure will be located at 56 Marquette County Road 510.

For most people, and not unreasonably, we believe, Habitat for Humanity has been around forever, doing its good work seamlessly in the community.

But it actually dates to 1992, when it broke ground on its first home in Marquette County.

The organization partners with families to construct new affordable housing. In keeping with its mission of “a hand up, not a handout,” families are required to put in at least 250 hours of sweat equity, or invested time, into their home build, alongside Habitat staff and volunteers.

Once the home is completed, the family is set up with an affordable mortgage, giving them a solid financial foundation and safe, secure housing for their future.

Want to get involved? Whether you have hands-on experience or are looking to expand your skill set, Habitat is always looking for more volunteers for new construction, home repairs and ramp installation.

If you are interested in learning more about volunteer opportunities, or to inquire about how to apply for a Habitat partner home, call 906-228-3578 or email info@mqthabitat.org.

You won’t be sorry you did.