25th Annual Habitat for Humanity Walk for Housing

On far left, Jill Marie, The Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity of Greater Newburgh, stands with her “family team” who participated in Sunday’s 25th Annual Walk for Housing, starting at Washington’s Headquarters in the City of Newburgh.
On far left, Jill Marie, The Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity of Greater Newburgh, stands with her “family team” who participated in Sunday’s 25th Annual Walk for Housing, starting at Washington’s Headquarters in the City of Newburgh.

By Jennifer L. Warren

NEWBURGH – The stories of inspiration, strong bonds and perseverance abounded on the freshly mowed, vibrant green lawn of Washington’s Headquarters on a chilly and clear spring Sunday afternoon.

Among them was that of a woman, Michelle Mushlit, surrounded by angel’s wings and proudly elevating a sign bearing the images of two incredible women: her mother-in-law and sister-in-law- whom she had once again returned to honor for their unwavering, extensive commitments to Habitat for Humanity of Greater Newburgh. Mushlit, was filled with emotion as she cited the contributions of her mother-in-law, City of Newburgh’s Maureen Mushlit, who enjoyed a 40 year career as a realtor, often helping people secure their first homes, and gave back to Habitat Newburgh as an integral member of Women’s Build and at Habitat Newburgh ReStore, along with sister-in-law, Kate Malkan, a pivotal multi-year member of the organization’s Walk for Housing, who passed away just two weeks before last year’s Walk. Mushlit returned to participate in the educational, chock-filled of homes and history three mile Walk for the sixth time, celebrating their inspiration, along with Habitat’s mission to provide affordable housing while creating community that feels like family.

The Newburgh Free Academy Jr ROTC leads the way out of Washington’s Headquarters for participants in Sunday’s 25th Annual Habitat for Humanity of Greater Newburgh’s Walk for Housing Sunday afternoon.
The Newburgh Free Academy Jr ROTC leads the way out of Washington’s Headquarters for participants in Sunday’s 25th Annual Habitat for Humanity of Greater Newburgh’s Walk for Housing Sunday afternoon.

“This Walk showcases all of the amazing work Habitat of Greater Newburgh does in an up close and personal way, getting to really see on the Walk all of the amazing things they have accomplished,” explained Town of Newburgh resident Mushlit. “Habitat is such a hardworking and important organization; my husband, son and I want to continue supporting it in any way we can, ensuring people get homes and they are able to continue doing what they do to help with that for a long, long time.”

That insurance was powerfully solidified Sunday, as the well-attended Walk’s registrant funds will be directly channeled back into Habitat of Greater Newburgh’s programs to raise awareness about the organization and continue its mission, providing a “hands up” through sweat equity hours, allowing owners to be directly involved in their home construction. The results of that unique process could be observed during Sunday’s Walk, as long lines of participants, taking part in the three mile route (shorter options were available as well) were able to see an array of Habitat homes: completed (107 in total), others in progress, as well as those specified as future sites. Smiling home owners could be spotted at several sites interacting with walkers while explaining the intricacies of their deeply appreciative home journeys, symbolically attesting to one of the day’s overriding themes: true community.

From left are Habitat for Humanity of Greater Newburgh volunteers; Cathy Maguire, Susan Smith, and Victoria Aleyakpo, flanked by some of the tee- shirts spanning the 25 years of the organization’s Annual Walks for Housing, with number 25 taking place Sunday.
From left are Habitat for Humanity of Greater Newburgh volunteers; Cathy Maguire, Susan Smith, and Victoria Aleyakpo, flanked by some of the tee- shirts spanning the 25 years of the organization’s Annual Walks for Housing, with number 25 taking place Sunday.

“Seeing the community come together makes these walks extra special,” pointed out long time Habitat for Humanity of Greater Newburgh volunteer, Bev Mennerich, who was lending her time at the raffle basket tent and has been a part of 24 of the 25 Habitat Walks. “Seeing them enjoy the beauty of Newburgh, in some cases come back home to visit the area; I am just so grateful for all of the supporters who help make this happen.”

Another veteran volunteer, Susan Smith, who was contributing her efforts over near registration echoed similar sentiments.

“It’s so exciting to see so many people, from families, to churches, to friends, to college students and ROTC, out here to support Habitat and its mission to build and partner with local families, building safe, affordable housing.”

That comprehensive support extended beyond the actual Walk. Face painting, bubbles and games were available throughout the Washington Headquarters lawn, 14 donated raffle baskets were awarded to winning ticket holders, the Newburgh Free Academy Varsity Cheerleading Team not only delivered a captivating performance prior to the Walk, but lined up to cheer participants on as they made their way out of the Headquarters and headed up Liberty Street. Also from NFA, the Jr. ROTC conducted an official march and salute as the National Anthem was sung, kicking off the Walk. NFA students further contributed with the Viscom class competing for the winning design on this year’s tee-shirt. A band also provided lively musical entertainment. The full gamut of community bonding on display was yet another tangible, beautiful testament of one of Habitat’s chief priorities: not just building homes but communities.

And it’s those communities that ultimately evolve into something even more.

“Habitat is truly a family,” said Jill Marie, Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity of Greater Newburgh. “I am truly blessed and thankful for all of the people who came out here today.”

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