In 2012, New Orleans Area Habitat for Humanity ReStore and affiliate office joined LifeCity and its members to help strengthen the “green movement” in New Orleans. LifeCity, a local green organization, is dedicated to their mission to facilitate a citywide network of environmentally positive organizations in order to accelerate the Impact Economy and creating incentives for people to support the businesses in this network through their Green Card. Not only does LifeCity focus on promoting certified organizations, but they also help those organizations connect and improve their own social and environmental impact. In effect, LifeCity is helping to build a real, growing community of green businesses and nonprofits.
“LifeCity’s continual support raises awareness of the benefits created by shopping at New Orleans Habitat ReStore including how much useful material is prevented from being thrown away and how much is salvaged,” stated Earl McNair, New Orleans Habitat ReStore Manager. “Supporting the ReStore not only helps NOAHH build homes, it also helps keep New Orleans green. By joining together with other like-minded organizations, New Orleans Area Habitat for Humanity (NOAHH) is expanding its ability to serve.”
Since joining the program, NOAHH has decreased our waste footprint by expanding our in-office recycling program, installing a water-filter system to provide drinking water, as well as actively partnering with LifeCity to promote the green benefits of New Orleans Habitat ReStore at local events. Most significantly, New Orleans Habitat ReStore has become part of Life City’s Green Card program. Anyone who shops at the ReStore with one of LifeCity’s Green Cards will receive a 10% on their furniture purchase.
“[New Orleans] Habitat is a role model in the Impact Economy,” said Liz Shepherd, the Chief Sustainability Officer at LifeCity. “Providing a charitable service that is also supported by market-based solutions when solving problems like affordable home ownership, this multi-pronged approach, as well as a collaborative approach, is crucial.”
NOAHH hopes its work with LifeCity will serve to inspire others to do the same. LifeCity has much to offer, and NOAHH is only beginning to fully realize the benefits that can be achieved to our organization and the environment through our partnership.
