We are excited to welcome Deb and her grandson Abram as the partner family of our 52nd Habitat home. Deb grew up in Detroit Lakes, MN, and has lived in several parts of the country. She moved to the Calumet area seven years ago at age 63 to be closer to her daughter and grandchildren. A 1993 nursing program graduate, Deb is now retired but has held a variety of jobs, most recently working as a self-employed cleaner.
Deb is the proud grandmother of five. Her youngest grandson, Abram, is autistic and has been in her care since age 11. Deb lives near a Habitat home and stopped by to ask about it. Feeling a nudge from God, she applied and was accepted. Deb has rented her entire life and is looking forward to owning her first home.
For Deb and Abram, this modular Habitat home will be life-changing. It will provide an environment that supports Abram’s needs and allows him to be his exuberant self. Having a backyard where they can have a pool and trampoline will help him stay active and engaged. The home also has an extra bedroom, which Deb plans to use as a sensory room to give Abram a safe and calming space when he needs it.
Their new Habitat home in Marble is especially unique. It is one of Itasca County Habitat’s first modular homes, being built in partnership with Lagom Homes. The house was constructed off-site in sections and then assembled on its foundation in Marble—a process that saves time, reduces waste, and ensures energy efficiency. This innovative approach allows Habitat to build quality homes more quickly while keeping affordability at the center of its mission.
We invite you to join us in supporting Deb and her family. Please consider donating to Itasca County Habitat for Humanity or volunteering your time to help build homes and hope in our community.

There’s something special about stepping onto an Itasca County Habitat for Humanity build site for the first time. You’re greeted not by the sound of heavy machinery or the buzz of professional contractors, but by the laughter of volunteers, the smell of fresh-cut lumber, and the knowledge that every hammer swing is helping to build not just a house, but a future.

Working on a Habitat project is a hands-on experience that welcomes people of all skill levels. Some volunteers arrive with years of construction know-how, while others have never picked up a power tool before. No matter your background, you’re guided by our friendly site supervisor who makes sure you learn what you need to know and feel safe and supported throughout the day.

One of the most rewarding parts of volunteering is working side-by-side with the future homeowners. Habitat families contribute “sweat equity” by helping build their own homes, and the pride in their eyes is contagious. You quickly realize this isn’t just about framing walls or painting siding—it’s about hope, dignity, and partnership.

There are also moments of camaraderie that make the experience unforgettable: sharing a lunch break in the shade, celebrating when a wall is raised, or laughing through a slightly crooked paint job. Everyone contributes in their own way, and every contribution matters.

By the end of the day, you may be tired, a little dusty, and maybe even sore—but you’ll also feel deeply fulfilled. Habitat for Humanity projects aren’t just about building homes; they’re about building community, breaking down barriers, and proving what’s possible when people come together with compassion and purpose.

Volunteering with Habitat is more than a day of service—it’s a memory, a connection, and a reminder of how powerful it is to work hand-in-hand toward a brighter future. Visit our Volunteer page to learn how to get involved.

Exciting things are happening for four local families who will be stepping into home ownership this year, thanks to Itasca County Habitat for Humanity. To help meet the increasing need for safe and affordable housing in Itasca County, for the first time ever we are building four new homes in 2025. The homes, located in Cohasset, Marble, and Grand Rapids, each represent hope, stability, and a brighter future for local families.

The foundations have been poured for our two homes in Marble. These home are being built in partnership with Lagom Modular Homes, who will be erecting the outer shells of both houses. By using this modular building approach, we are able to speed up construction, making it possible for families to move into their new homes sooner while still relying on the power of volunteers, donors, and community partners to complete the work.

One of these homes will be dedicated to the Fleischman family, who are eager to begin this next chapter of their lives. For them, owning a Habitat home represents more than just walls and a roof, it’s a chance to build lasting stability and a foundation for the future. The second Marble home will be dedicated to another partner family who has yet to be selected.

Meanwhile at our build site in Cohasset, the outer walls have been erected and the roof has been sheeted and is awaiting shingles. This home is truly groundbreaking-our first net zero, high-efficiency home. This home will not only provide safety and stability for Misty, Rhys, and their family, but it will also serve as a model for sustainable, energy-conscious building in northern Minnesota. By combining affordability with long-term energy savings, this project sets the stage for future homes that are both family- and earth-friendly. Looking ahead, construction will begin this fall on another net zero high-efficiency home in Grand Rapids.

Together, these four homes are more than construction sites, they’re a testament to what can be achieved when communities come together. With the help of volunteers, donors, and community partners, Itasca Habitat is building not just houses, but lasting opportunities for families across Itasca County.
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We rely on volunteers and donors to help us fulfill our mission. Please consider giving your time, talent, or treasure to help local families step into the joy of homeownership.