Peter Balch

Habitat for Humanity Colombia works to improve the quality of life of the most vulnerable people in Colombia, promoting access to their basic rights, the adoption of healthy household practices in adequate housing and encouraging the active participation of people and the community in their own development. 

Housing problems in the country

Precarious informal settlements present several different challenges such as security of land ownership, access to basic services, structural quality and affordability of resources to progressively improve housing.  The inequitable access to educational, social and health facilities, as well as employment opportunities, are also factors of great importance in obtaining adequate housing. 

For these reasons, Habitat for Humanity Colombia facilitates comprehensive neighborhood improvement, led by communities and civil society, with active participation of public and private sector partners, donors and volunteers. The goal for 2018 is to reduce the qualitative housing deficit in urban areas. This is proposed through work strategies channeled into the community, housing sector, and society levels.

Global Village is Habitat for Humanity’s international volunteer program. Teams travel to over 40 countries to work alongside communities, build housing solutions, and experience local culture. Our goal is to change the lives of the people we serve, as well as the lives of the volunteers.

To join a team or learn more, visit www.habitat.org/gv.

About Habitat for Humanity International 

Driven by the vision that everyone needs a decent place to live, Habitat for Humanity began in 1976 as a grassroots effort on a community farm in southern Georgia. The housing organization has since grown to become a leading global nonprofit working in more than 1,300 communities throughout the U.S. and in more than 70 countries. Families and individuals in need of a hand up partner with Habitat for Humanity to build or improve a place they can call home. Habitat homeowners help build their own homes alongside volunteers and pay an affordable mortgage. Through financial support, volunteering or adding a voice to support affordable housing, everyone can help families achieve the strength, stability and self-reliance they need to build better lives for themselves. Through shelter, we empower. To learn more, visit habitat.org.