WHAT IS HabiCorps?
Learn why our graduates have been hired by local gas, electric, and construction companies around Maryland & how you can join them in committing to making change in the communities where you work.
A FEW WORDS FROM MIKE POSKO,
CEO OF HABITAT CHESAPEAKE
Impact at a glance
Years
months of training
Neighborhoods
Hours Served
Service Beyond Measure
What have you learned with HabiCorps?
“I have learned how to put in windows, lay concrete, how to put in insulation, drywall, and how every part of a house works with the other from heating to electrical to plumbing. In theory, I understand how an entire house is built in just a couple of months. I want to continue on with that.”
What’s something that people may not know about the program?
“I had great instructors – they taught me about houses, but also about life. It was like family. Habitat taught me that no matter how lost you become, there’s always a way. Right now, I have a skill. After the program, I was able to find employment with a company that does remodeling. It helped me with dreams.”
What would you tell someone who was hesitant to apply for the program?
“I tell everyone – not just young people! Because most programs are just for young people – but not HabiCorps. Anyone who is lost or needs to find a way, with some guidance or skills, apply to HabiCorps. It changed my life, and it might change yours.”
Talk to a graduate
“It changed my life, and it might change yours.”
What does being a HabiCorps Trainee mean to you?
“Baltimore is a great city as long as you stay on your path and your goals. But when your path gets diverted or you take a break, sometimes you can’t get back on that path again. HabiCorps is making is possible for my goals to come true.”
What does the path forward look like for you?
“Life looked so bleak to me before HabiCorps and now it just gives me hope that anything is possible. After I finish my training, I think I want to attend community college and study to become a master electrician or HVAC.”
steve bolton, CoO OF HABITAT CHESAPEAKE, on workforce development
how does it work?
Financial support assists with operating costs and an emergency fund for trainees, providing financial assisstance to trainees experiencing extreme hardship.
We thank the key supporters who have made this possible, including Aerotek, the France-Merrick Foundation, the Middendorf Foundation, the Maryland State Department of Housing and Community Development, the Henry and Ruth Blaustein Rosenberg Foundation, and the Bunting Family Foundation.
- Private Foundations – 48%
- Corporations – 24%
- Public Grants – 28%
Thank you to all our HabiCorps & AmeriCorps members,
past and present!
Paving the way for women in trades
What was your favorite part of the program?
“I really enjoyed the classroom training…we built a shed, we learned about different kinds of roofs, even how to read a blueprint.
Mr. Rick was a great teacher, so I learned a lot. I like to be hands-on, I learn better. You can read all day long, but until you put it into practice, you really don’t understand how much really goes into it.”
How does it feel to be representative of women in the construction trade?
It’s a good feeling. Not only that, but as a Black woman, my ultimate goal is to become one of those general contractors out there.
What was the program like?
“The program all-in-all was a very great experience,” says Star, who completed the 10.5 program in the spring. “You’re getting paid to learn, and getting paid to acquire a skill, or multiple skills, because you’re learning a little bit of everything.”
What do you plan to do in the future?
For Star, providing a safe place for individuals and families to call home is more than a worthy cause – it’s also a dream that she wants to pursue using the skills learned from the program. “I want to build a tiny home community for the homeless because it’s hard for them to get off the street and find a job when they don’t have an address.”
Thank you, chaney enterprises!
our partners make it possible
Thank you Aerotek!
“On behalf of Aerotek, I want to congratulate all the individuals who were selected to be part of the 2021 Habicorps program! This is an incredible opportunity to gain valuable, hands-on training and experience that will help prepare you for the next step in your career, while making an impact in your community. I look forward to seeing your journey through this program and am confident this group of talented individuals will accomplish so much. Congratulations and best wishes for a rewarding future!”
Kelly Martin, Regional Vice President, Aerotek/Allegis
The americorps experience
“I became an AmeriCorps member to further my knowledge about non-profits and to help out the local community. I am originally from Annapolis and with Baltimore so close, I wanted to give back to the community. I am looking forward to finishing a house and working along side homeowners and volunteers.”
–Brandon, AmeriCorps Service Member
Interested in partnering with HabiCorps?
Contact us!
Interested in learning more about the HabiCorps Workforce Development Program or career opportunities for graduates?
Please contact HabiCorps program staff at habicorps@habitatchesapeake.org
