CHEMUNG COUNTY, N.Y. (WENY) -- Serving the county since 1989, the Chemung County Habitat for Humanity has become a pillar in the community, helping families attain home ownership.   

Executive Director Emily Barrett says they face challenges in contributing to the revitalization of Chemung County.   

“It's definitely a tougher time these days that we're working in with the housing market and the economy. But we have a family that's just getting ready to close on her home. She will actually be the first of her entire family to become a homeowner so we're very excited about that.”   

Aside from helping families achieve their dream of home ownership, the nonprofit organization also has volunteering opportunities that are open to everyone of all skills.   

“We are available on our build sites, Tuesdays through Saturdays,” says Barrett. “If you've never done a demolition day, I highly recommend it. It's a great opportunity to get out some aggression. But we also have some community events, like City's Rise Community Cleanups, and other office-related volunteer opportunities.”  

The local Habitat for Humanity builds homes year-round, with veteran volunteers on-site ready to train.   

‘We put all our volunteers through an orientation program, and they're taught anything and everything that they would need from safety components all the way down to the skills that they'll be doing on the activities for the day.”  

On Sept. 27 and Sept. 28, there will be a second community cleanup taking place on the South Side of Elmira to help with minor repairs “of exterior properties of homeowners over there” says Barrett.   

“What we're doing is we're trying to help those folks that maybe have a need that don't have the funding resources, or the skill sets to do that.”   

Following the month of Sept., the organization will be celebrating 35 years of operation in Chemung County with their very first “Builders Ball” taking place Oct. 12 that will be held at Ill Eagle Taphouse   

“We're very excited about all of the partners that are coming in. We do still have some opportunities for sponsorships for the event, as well as tables, so if anybody's interested, that's another opportunity to plug in with us.”   

To stay updated on upcoming events, or volunteer opportunities, visit their website or follow their Facebook page that is updated regularly.