Gunnison Habitat for Humanity ends after nearly three decades

After nearly three decades of providing affordable homeownership opportunities in the Gunnison Valley, the local chapter of Habitat for Humanity will close at the end of June.

Julie Robinson, executive director of the nonprofit, said the cost of building homes in the valley has exceeded the organization's ability to serve households earning 80% or less of the area median income (AMI). In Gunnison County, that threshold is approximately $83,400 in annual household income for a two-person family, according to Colorado Department of Local Affairs census data.

Robinson said Gunnison Valley Habitat for Humanity received its founding charter in 1998. Since then, the organization has built 19 affordable homes throughout the valley, serving 29 families, including 43 adults and 50 children.

A number of factors contributed to the board's decision to dissolve the organization.

In recent years, Habitat for Humanity divested several assets, including three undeveloped lots on South Eighth Street in Gunnison, where it had previously built several affordable homes. The organization has also distributed funds to other local housing organizations, including the Valley Housing Fund.

According to a press release issued last year, the remaining lots lacked utility infrastructure, making development costs "astronomical." Those expenses would ultimately have been added to the cost of the homes, placing them out of reach for low-income families.

Even with financial assistance and the investment of "sweat equity" by participating families, prospective homeowners must still qualify for and afford a mortgage.

In addition to rising construction costs, Robinson cited other challenges that have increased over time. These include higher liability insurance premiums for volunteer construction projects and changing regulations governing licensed contractors.

"Years ago, contractors could simply donate their professional services," Robinson said. "That's no longer possible under current regulations."

Robinson said she is proud of the organization's accomplishments and the impact Habitat for Humanity has had on local families.

She emphasized that homeownership provides more than housing stability, noting that it can improve mental well-being and create long-term opportunities for families to build equity and remain rooted in the community.

As part of the organization's closure, Habitat for Humanity recently distributed remaining assets to local housing initiatives. During a gathering at the I Bar Ranch, Robinson presented a $100,000 check to the Valley Housing Fund.

The donation was accepted by Valley Housing Fund representatives John O'Neal, board president; Amy Ellwein; Dewey Overhosler; and Kevin Donovan as Habitat for Humanity concludes its nearly 30-year mission in the Gunnison Valley.