Building the future of Habitat through planned giving

Fifteen years ago, DJ Hendricks stood at the groundbreaking of his home with a shovel twice his height. Today, his home has become a stable foundation for him and his family—made possible by supportive community members like you. The home has been a safe, comfortable environment for DJ and his brother, Riley, and it is affordable and accessible for their mother, Shannon.

DJ Hendricks at the groundbreaking ceremony for his family’s home in Virginia, 2010.

Our 2010 direct mail fundraising letter featured a photo of DJ holding the shovel. Our mission resonated with Patricia Jarvela, who donated regularly from 2011 until her death in 2023. She had named us as a beneficiary in her will, and her heartfelt bequest is helping us serve even more families.

No matter your stage in life, consider North St. Louis County Habitat for Humanity in your estate planning. Joining our Legacy Society gives you the knowledge that your gift will support, in perpetuity, simple, decent, and affordable homes on the Iron Range. Nearly 20 years ago, Sylvia Bezek also received a direct mail fundraising letter from NSLCHFH. The letter included this message from Embarrass Habitat homeowner Patty: “Our house was built with love and friendship in every nail. I can’t say enough good about the program.”

Sylvia showed love for her neighbors when she first donated to Habitat in 2004. Our mission still spoke to her even after she left the Iron Range. Sylvia lived in Missouri when she died at the age of 92. A bequest in her will gave North St. Louis County Habitat for Humanity $7,000 that will helped us serve five more families in 2023.

Retired high school teacher Jeanne Bymark of Hibbing has long been a Habitat supporter. Her father, Ted Huska, also Habitat’s impact in Hibbing and across the Iron Range. When Ted, 93, passed away, family and friends were invited to give memorials to Habitat for Humanity. Individuals from across Minnesota and beyond donated a total of $585 in Ted’s memory. Sylvia’s and Ted’s generosity in life will impact future generations as future homeowners receive a hand up and the opportunity to build their own generational wealth.

Our faithful supporters hammer, paint, and make financial gifts, but there are opportunities to give more and shape Habitat’s future. By including us in your planned giving, you can create a legacy that reflects your values and passion.

How others have supported Habitat

  • Include North St. Louis County Habitat for Humanity in your will or trust, typically in the form of a set dollar amount or a percentage of an estate
  • Designate us as a beneficiary of any financial account and certain life insurance policies
  • Donate publicly traded stock, which we can hold or sell; this can qualify you for a tax deduction
  • Make tax-free gifts directly from your individual retirement account
  • Name NSLCHFH as the recipient of real estate or other property and remove taxable assets from your estate
  • Contribute to our endowment fund

How your planned giving can make an impact

  • Help us sustain and expand our ability to transform lives and communities
  • Make significant contributions without affecting your current finances
  • Honor loved ones, share your values, and leave a mark that resonates beyond your lifetime

Like Patricia, you can make thoughtful decisions about your resources that will help families become self-sufficient in a healthy home. Contact us at habitat@nslchfh.org or 218-749-8910 to learn more about how you can include North St. Louis County Habitat for Humanity in your legacy. You may also want to consult your financial advisor or your attorney. By acting today, you can ensure your legacy begins right away.