






Another great day of building hope with Habitat for Humanity of Franklin County! At our Buchanan Trail West build site in Greencastle, the Franklin County Commissioners joined us on the worksite for the very first time as construction volunteers. Often present at dedications, we thank Commissioner Dean Horst, Chair, Commissioner John Flannery, Vice Chair, and Commissioner Bob Ziobrowski, Secretary, for modeling service and leadership.
This is our 61st Habitat home in Franklin County, built by volunteers, and its foundation rests on more than just wood, nails, and concrete. Each year, the commissioners allocate Housing Trust Funds to Habitat, helping us purchase building lots, including this very lot in Greencastle. Their investment in affordable housing strengthens the fabric of our community, but today their investment went beyond dollars. With power tools in hand, the commissioners helped bring the dream of homeownership one step closer for our local homebuying family.
Among the projects they tackled was the installation of a very special “Jimmy Carter” door, an enduring symbol of Habitat’s values of faith in action, compassion, and the belief that everyone deserves a safe and decent place to live. Earlier this year, donors signed their names on the Carter door as part of a campaign that helped make this home a reality. President Carter’s legacy reminds us that building homes is about more than shelter; it’s about building hope.
Our work is always a community effort, and today we felt that spirit deeply. A huge thank you to Lizzy’s, the nearby restaurant that provided a delicious meal to keep our crew fueled and energized. Local businesses like Lizzy’s remind us that generosity takes many forms, and that every act of kindness, whether swinging a hammer or cooking a meal, helps make Habitat’s mission possible.
Together, elected officials, businesses, volunteers, and donors are writing the next chapter of affordable housing in Franklin County. Every hand makes a difference. Every gift builds hope. And every partner brings us closer to a future where everyone has a safe, decent place to call home.
Lunch provided by Lizzy’s – thank you!
Bamboo: an unassuming, versatile grass known for its rapid growth and use in furniture and construction in many parts of the world. However, traditional bamboo homes often lack the structural integrity needed to withstand natural disasters like earthquakes or monsoons. That’s why, in Nepal, Habitat for Humanity has partnered with local builders and engineers to explore alternative ways to construct homes with a combination of cement and bamboo, creating affordable, resilient housing for all.
In early 2025, a team of Habitat for Humanity volunteers from around the world came together in Nepal to help build these homes. Among them was Chris Vanderweele, a longtime volunteer from Franklin County. Chris first learned about the trip through his mother, who received a Trinity Habitat newsletter and passed the information along to him. With several builds already under his belt, from projects across the U.S. to one in Poland with All Hands and Hearts, Chris was eager to take on a new challenge.
“Working with bamboo was challenging, as it’s a medium I had never worked with before,” he explained. “But I’ve learned some of the quirks. I remembered that volunteering is about helping where you can, however you can. Every little bit is needed.”
Each day in Nepal followed a dedicated rhythm with an early start every morning and arrival at the worksite by 8 AM. “The temperatures were hot, so you took your time and stopped to drink often,” Chris said. The team typically worked until 4 PM and finally sat down to eat dinner around 6 PM.
However, the work went far beyond the physical construction; it was also a cultural exchange. Volunteers worked alongside local families, craftspeople, and community leaders, forming a bond of shared purpose and unity. “We met with the families that are receiving the homes…it was great learning about their cultures and lives,” Chris said. “I enjoyed working with all the other volunteers, and am thinking about joining them again this year or next. I still keep in contact with them and am constantly talking with them about going back.”
For those considering an international trip with Habitat, Chris is enthusiastic. “There’s no better way to get to know the people, culture, and traditions of a different country.” But he’s just as encouraging to those who can’t travel abroad. “Do not be afraid to put yourself out there…start slow, volunteer in your local area. There’s always something you can do to help out!”
When asked about his favorite memory, Chris highlighted the closing ceremony the community held for the volunteers. “They taught us some local dances, took pictures with each of us, and one of our group members even gave a thank-you speech in Nepali so they could all understand it. But in all reality,” he added, “it was the everyday things of getting there and doing the work.”
Written by Joanna Story
Last week, we had the joy of welcoming a fantastic team from Keller Williams Realty in Chambersburg, PA to our Greencastle build site for a Habitat Workday Experience — and what a day it was!
With sleeves rolled up and hearts wide open, the Keller Williams crew brought energy, enthusiasm, and excellence to the job site. Their hands-on support directly advanced our current build, helping move us one step closer to providing safe, affordable housing for a local family.
This partnership is more than a one-day event — it’s a shining example of what happens when businesses invest in their communities through service. We are deeply grateful for Keller Williams’ commitment to making a difference where it matters most: right here at home.
To the Keller Williams team: thank you for your hard work, generosity, and spirit. You’re helping us build more than just houses—you’re helping build hope.
Want to get your team involved? Learn more about our Workday Experience here.
What began as a simple conversation over coffee has grown into one of Franklin County’s most inspiring annual events. On Thursday, April 17, Habitat for Humanity of Franklin County hosted its 3rd Annual Foundations Breakfast, bringing together 130 attendees for a powerful morning of generosity, connection, and community. We’re thrilled to share that this year’s event raised over $78,000—our highest total yet!
Held at the beautiful Grant Street Loft, the breakfast featured an expanded menu, specialty beverages, and a sold-out crowd filled with community leaders, local businesses, and longtime supporters. The energy in the room reflected a shared belief in Habitat’s mission: that everyone deserves a safe, decent place to call home.
This year, funds raised will go directly toward the construction of a new Habitat home at 2968 Buchanan Trail West in Greencastle, where another local family will soon begin a new chapter of stability and hope. As a special touch, we were honored to have guests sign our President Jimmy Carter Tribute Door, which will be installed in the home—a lasting symbol of compassion, service, and the legacy of one of Habitat’s most faithful advocates.
We were also deeply honored to welcome Adrienne Goolsby, Senior Vice President for the U.S. and Canada at Habitat for Humanity International, as our keynote speaker. Her words reminded us that what we do locally has a ripple effect around the world—and that strong communities begin with people who care enough to act.
A special thank you goes to F&M Trust, our Grand Diamond Sponsor, whose continued partnership plays a vital role in making this event and our work possible.
To everyone who sponsored, attended, donated, volunteered, or helped spread the word—thank you. You didn’t just support an event; you helped build a home, a future, and a stronger Franklin County.
We’re already looking ahead to next year! Mark your calendars for the 4th Annual Foundations Breakfast on April 21, 2026. We can’t wait to build with you again.
Korey Paff Agency Owner/Broker
Goosehead Insurance Korey Paff Agency
Member of the Breakfast Club (organizers of the event)
What happens when a longtime banker with a passion for community involvement joins the board of a nonprofit? A partnership that will impact lives for years to come. Meet Courtney Shauf, an office manager at F&M Trust. She has been employed at F&M Trust, a community bank in South Central Pennsylvania, for 12 years and has sought ways to impact her community for much longer. In 2022, Shauf participated in the Habitat for Humanity of Franklin County’s Women Build initiative, which focuses on empowering women to serve their communities. Shauf has been active in attending monthly planning meetings, organizing various logistics, and working on build sites ever since, and she was inspired to join the Franklin County Habitat board of directors that same year.
F&M Trust recently launched a program focused on financial literacy, which provides free financial resources. “As a local community bank, giving back is at the core of our mission,” Shauf said. FiQ, available for anyone looking for high-quality information in all financial areas, gives advice on topics such as budgeting, debt management, and first-time homebuying, which aligns perfectly with Habitat for Humanity’s mission. In addition to building affordable housing, Habitat emphasizes financial wellness that will promote confidence and strength in a new homebuyer’s journey. “By working together, we can empower future homeowners with the financial knowledge they need for long-term success,” said Shauf.
Habitat and F&M Trust have been working together for many years. F&M Trust has been the main sponsor of Habitat’s annual Foundations Breakfast for the previous three years and is familiar with Habitat’s missions and values. This partnership is the natural continuation of their prior collaboration. “We are proud to support such an important organization, and I’m excited to be a part of this next venture,” said Shauf.
This collaboration between Habitat and F&M Trust has produced “the Homebuyer Essentials program.” It was designed to encourage financial literacy for Habitat families in the present and future. The core of this program is rooted in creating a partnership between new homeowners and a financial professional that will be a source of information and support. Through this relationship, Habitat partners will gain access to one-on-one sessions with their contact from F&M Trust, and these lessons will cover topics such as budgeting, debt management, and anything else they need to succeed in this new chapter of their lives. Habitat families will be equipped through this partnership between F&M Trust and Habitat for Humanity of Franklin County with a wealth of professional knowledge to maintain their homes and finances for life.
At Habitat for Humanity of Franklin County, we believe in building strength, stability, and self-reliance through shelter. That’s why we were thrilled to partner with Keller Williams Keystone Realty for an incredible free community event that brought together fun, family, and philanthropy!
On Sunday, March 30th, the Capitol Theatre in Chambersburg, PA, was filled with excitement as families gathered for an afternoon of entertainment and connection. Uncle Bean wowed the audience with a spectacular magic show, bringing smiles and laughter to kids and adults alike. Guests also enjoyed:
– Free food from Fox’s Pizza Den
– KidZone fun activities
– Golf simulator fun from Pure Impact
– A silent auction supporting Habitat for Humanity
Habitat for Humanity and Keller Williams share a common mission—helping people achieve safe, stable housing. KW agents work to find families their dream homes, and HFHFC volunteers build homes for those in need. This event was a wonderful reminder of the power of community in making housing opportunities accessible for all.
There’s Still Time to Make a Difference!
Even though the event is over, you can still support Habitat’s mission! Our silent auction is still live online, featuring fantastic items donated by local businesses, with all proceeds benefiting local housing efforts. Place your bids here: tinyurl.com/y34n8h7t
Thank you to everyone who joined us and made this event a success! Your support helps build homes, hope, and a stronger community.
This February has been particularly cold and windy. As an intern, I drive to the Habitat office in Franklin County once a month and feel the biting cold of the early morning while I wait for my car’s heater to fight the chill in the air.
I visited three Habitat home sites today: one rehab, one in-progress lot, and one unbuilt lot. Each lot is unique and will soon become a finished home for local families and individuals. My last stop on the tour was the in-progress lot. The home covers 1,200 square feet with an open-concept layout, three bedrooms and a clear view of the mountains. As I walked through, I imagined what it would look like in May after its dedication and in six months as the family prepares for the holiday season. I see a Christmas tree in one corner with toys scattered across the couch and floor. I see a birthday cake on the kitchen counter with plenty of balloons and cake for all. I see a crowd of kids running in and out of the front door during the summer, enjoying icy lemonade under the warm sun.
But for now, this home is empty. I hear the wind whistling past the house, unable to get past the new insulation. In a moment, I’ll have to step outside into the full force of the wind and drive back home. I’ll see my roommate, and we’ll drink tea, safe from the elements. But my mind will wander back to that almost-ready home, wondering where its family is as they wait for it to be completed.
Written by Joanna Story, Lancaster Bible College senior and HFHFC intern
Habitat for Humanity of Franklin County celebrated the ten-year anniversary of its ReStore, not with a ribbon cutting but with a board-cutting ceremony. “We don’t cut ribbons at Habitat, we cut boards,” said Mark Story, Habitat’s Director of Advancement. Justin Hoke, the original store manager, cut the board ten years ago when the ReStore first opened and was proud to cut another alongside Les Clugston, the current manager, at the celebration on January 23rd.
In recognition of ten years, Story gave a speech thanking the many people who have contributed to Habitat ReStore’s success, from past and present volunteers to community members to anyone who has made a purchase at the ReStore. Over the last ten years, sales from the ReStore have funded the equivalent construction of 20 homes for local families in Franklin County. The ReStore is an integral part of the Habitat for Humanity mission and is looking forward to a future where everyone has a decent place to live.
Habitat for Humanity of Franklin County has a powerful new tool in its mission to build homes and hope, thanks to a generous donation from BWise Trailers and Brechbill Trailers. The two local businesses teamed up to provide a brand-new 12’ DT10 BWise Dump Trailer, solving a long-standing challenge at Habitat’s construction sites. Previously, Habitat relied on roll-off dumpsters for nonrecyclable debris, but those dumpsters often became filled by others overnight, causing delays and extra landfill fees. Now, the donated dump trailer offers a secure and efficient solution, allowing volunteers and homeowners to focus on what matters most—building safe, affordable housing.
Mark Story, Habitat’s Director of Advancement, expressed his gratitude: “Our volunteers and homeowners are the true beneficiaries of this generous gift. We are tremendously proud of the philanthropic spirit and community support offered by the Cumberland Valley.”
The trailer is already hard at work at Habitat’s 59th home under construction in Hamilton Township, showcasing how community partnerships can make a lasting impact.
Monday: 9am – 2pm
Tuesday: 9am – 2pm
Wednesday: 9am – 2pm
Thursday: 9am – 2pm
(other hours by appointment only)
Monday: CLOSED
Tuesday: CLOSED
Wednesday: 10am – 6pm
Thursday: 10am – 6pm
Friday: 10am – 6pm
Saturday: 9am – 3pm
Sunday: CLOSED
1662 Lincoln Way E
Chambersburg, PA 17202
717-491-1156
We are pledged to the letter and spirit of U.S. policy for the achievement of equal housing opportunity throughout the nation. We encourage and support an affirmative advertising and marketing program in which there are no barriers to obtaining housing because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin.
Questions about financial donations? Please contact mark@habitatfranklinpa.org
Our EIN # is 25-1706987