As we step into a brand-new year, it's natural to reflect on the past, set personal goals, and think about the ways we want to grow in the coming months. For many of us, this time of year is about self-improvement—whether it's adopting healthier habits, learning new skills, or taking on exciting challenges. But this year, please consider making a resolution that not only benefits you but also makes a lasting impact on the lives of others.
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In Itasca County, we have an opportunity to make a meaningful difference by supporting something truly special: Itasca County Habitat for Humanity. Habitat for Humanity is a nonprofit organization that helps build and improve homes for local families who are in need of safe, decent, and affordable housing. The goal is to ensure that everyone, regardless of their income, has a place to call home.

This year, let’s make it our resolution to come together and support Habitat for Humanity’s efforts in Itasca County. Here’s how you can make a big impact:
1. Donate
One of the most straightforward ways to help is by making a financial contribution. Donations go directly toward the cost of building homes and providing critical repairs for families in need. No donation is too small, and every dollar brings us closer to building a future where everyone has a place to live.

2. Volunteer Your Time
If you have skills to share—whether it's construction, painting, organizing, or even offering moral support—your time is invaluable. Habitat for Humanity welcomes volunteers of all backgrounds and expertise. You don’t need to be a professional builder to make a difference; the effort and passion you put in will be felt by the families whose homes you help create.

3. Shop or Donate to the ReStore
The Itasca County Habitat for Humanity ReStore is a nonprofit home improvement store and donation center that sells gently used furniture, appliances, building materials, and more. When you shop at the ReStore, you’re not only finding affordable items for your own home, but you’re also helping fund Habitat’s mission. Better yet, if you have items you no longer need, consider donating them to the ReStore!

4. Spread the Word
Even if you’re unable to contribute financially or physically, you can still help by raising awareness. Share Habitat for Humanity’s mission with your friends, family, and social media circles. The more people who know about the great work being done, the more support we can rally for this vital cause.

5. Advocate for Affordable Housing
You can also make a resolution to advocate for affordable housing in our community. Speak to local policymakers, participate in community meetings, or join efforts that promote affordable housing as a priority for Itasca County. Everyone deserves a safe and stable place to live, and it’s important that our voices reflect that truth.

Why It Matters
The need for affordable housing is a growing issue in many communities, including Itasca County. Families across the region struggle to find safe homes that they can afford. By supporting Itasca County Habitat for Humanity, we are investing in the future of our community. When families have stable housing, they are better positioned to succeed—whether that’s securing a stable job, supporting their children’s education, or simply living without the constant stress of worrying where they will sleep at night.

A Resolution to Build Stronger Communities
This New Year, let’s make a resolution that not only changes our own lives but also helps build stronger, more vibrant communities. By supporting Itasca County Habitat for Humanity, we are giving back to those who need it most, and we are ensuring that the foundations of our community are built on kindness, generosity, and hope for a brighter future.
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Let’s make 2026 the year of making a real difference—one home, one family, one community at a time. Together, we can help build homes, change lives, and create lasting impact.

To our Habitat Family,

As we close the doors on 2025 and look toward a new year, I find myself reflecting on the word "foundation." At Itasca County Habitat for Humanity, we spend a lot of time pouring concrete foundations, but this year has shown me that the strongest foundations in our county are built from partnerships, education, and people coming together.

It has been a landmark year. We successfully broke ground on four new houses and celebrated a historic milestone: the completion of our 51st home and first Net Zero home. Most importantly, these numbers represent a human impact that fills my heart—we have now helped 65 families achieve the safety and dignity of a place to call their own.

But our mission has grown beyond the job site. We believe that homeownership starts with empowerment, which is why I am so proud of our new financial readiness class. Launched in partnership with Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union, this program isn't just for our partner families; it is a resource open to every member of our community to help build a more secure financial future for all.

Our leap into the future of construction wouldn't have been possible without incredible mentors. I want to share my sincere gratitude to Sam Friesen, who has been a vital guide in teaching our Affiliate how to build Net-Zero homes. Because of his expertise, we are building houses that are as kind to the environment as they are to a family’s monthly budget. Furthermore, our growing partnership with AEOA YouthBuild continues to inspire me; seeing these young people gain vocational skills while helping us house their neighbors is a beautiful reminder of the power of community.

To our volunteers, ReStore shoppers, and donors: you are the heartbeat of this organization. You help us prove that when we come together, we aren't just building houses—we are building hope, stability, and a stronger Itasca County.

Thank you for an unforgettable 2025. I can’t wait to see what we build together in 2026.

​Jamie Mjolsness, Executive Director