In this Q&A, Carin Crowe, CEO of Habitat for Humanity Greater Salt Lake Area (Habitat), and Nikki Walker discuss Habitat’s expansion into Davis County, the 15th anniversary of the Salt Lake Valley ReStore, sustainable funding practices for nonprofit organizations and affordable housing solutions.
NW: How will Habitat’s expansion into Davis County enhance its impact on local communities and economies?
CC: We’re here to tackle essential housing needs and bring real benefits to our community. By expanding affordable homeownership opportunities for low- to moderate-income families, we’re not just building homes — we’re building a foundation for stability and brighter futures. For families who need critical home repairs, we’re committed to enhancing the quality of their homes and lives, ensuring they have safe, comfortable places to live. With our expansion into Davis County, we’re excited to create a ripple effect that goes beyond housing. We’re fostering a community where everyone has the chance to thrive, building an inclusive local economy where stability and opportunity uplift us all. It’s about making a lasting difference together.
NW: What role do local businesses play in supporting Habitat’s mission? How can they get involved in future projects?
CC: Local businesses play a crucial role in supporting Habitat for Humanity’s mission by providing financial support, volunteer labor and resources.
NW: In what ways can the 15th anniversary of the Salt Lake Valley ReStore serve as a model for other nonprofits seeking to generate revenue through community engagement?
CC: At the ReStore, every donated item finds a new purpose, aligning with our commitment to sustainability and the environment. By reselling these items, we’re able to reduce waste and make a real, positive impact on our local ecosystem. But that’s not all — through local support, we’ve been able to achieve some incredible milestones that go far beyond environmental benefits. Thanks to our community’s generosity, the revenue generated from the ReStore over the past 15 years has created enough revenue to complete 150 critical home repairs or build seven new homes for families in need. Together, we’ve kept 9,000 tons of materials out of landfills, proving that small actions add up to significant change. Our work doesn’t stop there. We’re proud to have partnered with other local nonprofits, donating over $5 million in products back into the community, helping even more people benefit. When you support the ReStore, you’re not just shopping — you’re making a real difference. Thank you for being part of this journey with us!
NW: What strategies has Habitat implemented to ensure sustainable funding for its housing initiatives? How can other nonprofits replicate these strategies?
CC: We ensure sustainable funding through diverse revenue streams: revenue through our ReStore, corporate partnerships, fundraising campaigns, and foundation and government grants.
NW: How does Habitat measure the success of its affordable housing projects in terms of community development and economic stability?
CC: At Habitat, we’re committed to supporting families for the long term, and we do this by tracking the stability of homeownership for those we serve. We keep an eye on mortgage repayment rates and how often families stay in their homes because these are signs of success — not just in housing but in creating a lasting impact on people’s lives. Studies consistently show that stable, affordable housing transforms lives in countless ways. It can improve mental health, provide children with the security they need to thrive in school and strengthen overall family stability. When families own a home, they’re also building equity — one of the key ways to create lasting financial security and start building generational wealth. The benefits go beyond economic stability. Children who grow up in a safe, stable home environment tend to perform better in school and face fewer health issues. We’re proud that research and our own experiences show that Habitat homes make a positive, lasting difference in people’s lives, generation after generation.
NW: What opportunities exist for corporate sponsorships or partnerships with Habitat, particularly in light of its recent expansion?
CC: The recent expansion presents multiple opportunities for corporate sponsorships and partnerships, enabling businesses to support affordable housing initiatives while engaging with the community. We offer home-build sponsorships, employee and community group volunteer programs, and the donation of materials and services.
NW: How can the local business community leverage the Salt Lake Valley ReStore to promote sustainability and support affordable housing solutions?
CC: Local businesses have an amazing opportunity to make a difference by partnering with Habitat for Humanity’s ReStore. By donating surplus inventory or gently used items, sponsoring ReStore events, or encouraging employees to donate or volunteer, companies can play a direct role in promoting sustainability and affordable housing in the Greater Salt Lake Area. When businesses support the ReStore, they’re helping keep usable items out of the landfill and giving them a second life, which actively strengthens our community’s commitment to a circular economy. It’s a meaningful way to promote sustainable practices while fostering closer ties with the people we all serve. Together, we can make the dream of safe, affordable housing a reality for more families. Let’s build a greener, more caring community — one donation, one volunteer hour, one step at a time.
NW: What are the long-term economic benefits of increasing access to affordable homeownership for low- to moderate-income families in Utah?
CC: Making affordable homeownership a reality for low- to moderate-income families in Utah is about so much more than just putting a roof over people’s heads — it’s about creating lasting opportunities for financial stability and economic mobility. For so many families who haven’t had access to homeownership, this is the chance to build wealth that can be passed down, offering security for generations to come. When families have a home of their own, they often find a new level of independence, with a reduced reliance on social services and a stronger commitment to the communities they’re part of. It’s proven that children in stable housing tend to perform better in school, opening up even more possibilities for their futures. This kind of legacy has the power to break cycles of poverty, support upward mobility and ultimately strengthen the resilience of our entire community. Affordable homeownership is a foundation that offers families not just a place to live but a future to look forward to and a way to invest in the dreams they have for themselves and their children.
NW: How can businesses participate in Habitat’s community events to enhance their community relations and brand visibility?
CC: We would welcome event sponsorships or donated products. ... We also welcome social media interactions and attendance at events.
NW: What innovative fundraising approaches has Habitat adopted over the past 15 years? How can businesses learn from these initiatives to enhance their corporate social responsibility efforts?
CC: Over the last 15 years, we at Habitat for Humanity have embraced new ways to fundraise that not only support our mission but also bring the community together around a shared purpose. From hosting team-building days where companies and organizations can work side-by-side with partner families on construction sites to our annual fall online auction featuring around 200 unique items, we’re always finding meaningful ways for people to get involved. This year, we’re thrilled to bring back something special — our first gala since 2019!
This event is not just a fundraiser; it’s a celebration of the impact we’ve made together and a chance to look forward to all we’ll accomplish in the future. We can’t wait to share this night with everyone who has been part of our journey.