Marist Habitat Earns Gold Hammer Award

Members of the Habitat for humanity chapter at Marist gather at the celebration of their recent award recognition. Austin Gurda '27

Marist University's Habitat for Humanity chapter accepted the “Gold Hammer” award for its partnership with Habitat for Humanity of Dutchess County. 

As a club on campus, Habitat for Humanity has been instrumental in supporting the local community through nonprofit service work. This year, its work is being honored as part of Dutchess County Habitat’s 40th anniversary celebration. 

The award specifically recognizes years of work contributed by Marist students, faculty and staff. “It’s an honor because it recognizes the strength and longevity of that partnership and the contributions of everyone who has helped make it possible,” said the Marist Habitat for Humanity chapter. 

“A major part of our service is volunteering at the Habitat ReStore, a nonprofit home improvement and resale store that accepts donated furniture, appliances, building materials and other household items” said Austin Gurda ‘27,  Our members help organize and prepare donations, maintain the store and assist with day-to-day operations. We also participate in local home repair and construction projects.”

The club continues to grow its involvement in the community. This year, Habitat welcomed 120 new members. The chapter's growth, along with this year's recognition through the Gold Hammer award, gives members an opportunity to build on the impact they have made. 

“There are so many different ways to contribute, whether that is volunteering on a building, helping at the ReStore, participating in fundraising or joining us for welcoming general meetings,” the chapter said in a statement. 

The chapter will continue its longstanding partnership with Dutchess County Habitat and look to build on its impact in the community.