July 16, 2020 Partnerships

Houwzer Partners with Habitat for Humanity Philadelphia

Houwzer, a socially-responsible real estate and mortgage brokerage, has partnered with Habitat for Humanity Philadelphia for a sponsorship at the Community Builder level. Houwzer is a committed partner to Habitat Philadelphia’s mission to provide safe and affordable local housing, helping families build long-term financial security. As a Community Builder, Houwzer has donated $15,000 to the organization, and will contribute two team volunteer days on-site to help build new homes for Philadelphia families. 

“This year, despite COVID-19 and all its implications, it’s important that we stay true to our values of giving back to our communities,” says CEO Mike Maher of the decision to become a sponsor. “Habitat for Humanity Philadelphia has built an incredible track record in the Greater Philadelphia area. They are well-organized, great stewards of charitable contributions, and really measure their impact. We’re impressed by their vision of making ownership more attainable for the under-served.”

“Houwzer’s commitment comes at a time when having a strong and stable home means all the difference,” says Habitat for Humanity Philadelphia CEO Corinne O’Connell. “We look forward to working with them as dedicated partners toward our vision of a city where everyone has a decent place to live.”

As a committed partner, Houwzer sees the Habitat for Humanity Philadelphia partnership as an extension of its existing mission, to use business as a force for good. In 2016, Houwzer became the world’s first Certified B Corporation real estate brokerage.

Certified B Corporations, or B Corps, must uphold the highest standards of social and environmental impact. Since 2017, Houwzer has been recognized on B Corp’s “Best For The World” list, an honor given to the top 10% of B Lab’s 2,400 Certified B Corporations.

Part of Houwzer’s B Corp commitment is requiring employees to volunteer 50 hours a year in their local community and many of their employees regularly invest that time in Habitat’s projects. Though on-site volunteer projects with Habitat for Humanity Philadelphia are temporarily suspended due to coronavirus-related safety concerns, the Houwzer team looks forward to working on projects that benefit local communities once restrictions are lifted. “Housing stability is health stability – and human stability,” notes Maher.