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Mission & History

lioght shining through tree branches

Our Mission

Seeking to put God’s love into action, Habitat for Humanity brings people together to build homes, communities and hope.

Our Vision

A world where everyone has a decent place to live.

Our Core Values

  • Christ-Centered: We embody the teachings and character of Jesus in all we do.
  • Authentic: We exemplify honesty and integrity in all daily practices.
  • Collaborative: We foster respectful and mutually beneficial relationships.
  • Inclusive: We embrace individual differences.
  • Inspiring: We cast vision to bring hope through storytelling.
  • Positive: We promote a culture of positivity.
  • Nurturing: We cultivate a loving and compassionate environment.

Our Principles

  • Demonstrate the love of Jesus Christ.
  • Focus on shelter.
  • Advocate for affordable housing.
  • Promote dignity and hope.
  • Support sustainable and transformative development.

Non-Proselytizing

Habitat for Humanity and its affiliate organizations will not proselytize. Nor will Habitat work with entities or individuals who insist on proselytizing as part of their work with Habitat. This means that Habitat will not offer assistance on the expressed or implied condition that people must adhere to or convert to a particular faith or listen and respond to messaging designed to induce conversion to a particular faith.

History

Founders of Berthoud Habitat for Humanity together

Berthoud Habitat for Humanity became a local affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International in 2000, grounded in a shared commitment to strengthening our community through affordable homeownership for local families. 

The vision for Habitat in Berthoud began in 1996, when Peter Bridgman was inspired after volunteering with Loveland Habitat for Humanity. Recognizing the growing local need for attainable housing, Peter joined with Ricardo Haskins, Tom Patterson, and Thomas Jones to explore how Habitat’s proven model could serve families in Berthoud. Their early collaboration led to the incorporation of Berthoud’s Habitat for Humanity, Ltd. on August 20, 1997, which later became Berthoud Habitat for Humanity, Inc. in March 2000.

Sustainability and stewardship were embedded early in the organization’s approach. The Berthoud Habitat for Humanity ReStore was established to generate ongoing revenue for home construction while keeping usable materials out of the landfill. Today, 100% of ReStore proceeds are reinvested locally to support affordable housing solutions.

2 founders of berthoud habitat for humanity together

A defining moment in Berthoud Habitat for Humanity’s history occurred in 1998, when Dr. “Doc” Fickel and Dr. Helen Fickel donated more than five acres of land on 4th Street to support affordable homeownership. While the donation was made jointly, it was Dr. Helen Fickel’s leadership, persistence, and belief in housing as a foundation for community stability that spearheaded this effort. Her vision served as the catalyst that transformed planning into action—making it possible for Berthoud Habitat to develop its first subdivision.

As a result of this extraordinary gift, construction on the first single-family Habitat home in Berthoud began in 2001, establishing a model of homeowner partnership and community investment that continues today. In recognition of Dr. Helen Fickel’s lasting impact, the alley behind the 4th Street subdivision is now named Helen’s Way, honoring her role in creating a place where families can build stability and put down roots.

 

first home built and sold by Berthoud Habitat for Humanity with famility in front.

Berthoud Habitat for Humanity operates on a “hand up, not a handout” model that promotes dignity, accountability, and success. Our qualifying homeowners partner with Berthoud Habitat by contributing sweat equity, completing financial education, and investing in their future—ensuring homes remain affordable, and the community remains strong.

We welcome volunteers, donors, and partners from all backgrounds and serve individuals and families in need of safe, stable housing regardless of race or religion. By working locally and collaboratively, we are able to maximize resources, deepen impact, and respond directly to the housing needs of our community.

 

Original Board of Directors along with some of the founders.

Founded in Americus, Georgia, in 1976, Habitat for Humanity International is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit Christian housing ministry that has helped build, renovate, and repair more than one million homes worldwide, serving more than five million people.

Together, Berthoud Habitat for Humanity helps families build strength, stability, and self-reliance through affordable homeownership—while strengthening the community we all call home.