Artists work to support Habitat for Humanity

Many local artists are creating something new out of something old to help support Sisters Habitat for Humanity during its first UpCycle Design Challenge fundraiser.

The event takes place Saturday, August 13, from 5 to 8 p.m. at the ReStore, 254 W. Adams Ave. The volunteer designers will donate their items that have been made from using pieces found at both the Sisters Habitat Thrift Store and ReStore. The creations will then be auctioned off, and all proceeds will go toward helping families through Sisters Habitat.

"We live in a very special place. What a joy it is to see this small community rally around one another in an effort to make dreams come true," said Mandy Haugen, event organizer.

Many designers have been creating items since spring, and the creations will be displayed and judged during the event. Those attending the event will have the chance to bid on the items during the silent auction. Some of the categories are "Stylish Storage," featuring pieces that can be used as functional storage; "Ugly Duckling," pieces that started out ugly and were flipped into something beautiful; "Outside In," outdoor items that are turned into something for use in the indoors; and many more.

Kids 12 and under will have the chance to enter their work into the "Put A Bird On It" category. They can enter a bird-feeder, bird house, or bird-bath using items found at the ReStore or Thrift Store. These items will also be for sale.

Besides the auction, people will have the chance to purchase food and beer. Local brewery Three Creeks Brewing will supply the beer, and Matthew Poyner will cater the event.

Sisters Habitat for Humanity builds and sells affordable, energy-efficient houses to low-income families. Future Habitat homeowners work alongside volunteers to construct their homes.

Since 1991, Sisters Habitat has provided homeownership opportunities to 60 families. The organization has also completed four repairs through its new home repair program.

In 1993, the Thrift Store was opened to help raise funds for the building program, and in 2007 the ReStore was added as a place to sell and purchase donated furniture, appliances and construction materials.

Designers can still enter an upcycle piece for the fundraiser and are asked to contact Mandy Haugen and Dena Dunn at [email protected] The event can be followed on Facebook as well at H4h Upcycle Design Challenge.