Every so often, we come upon a nonprofit organization that few can quibble with, no matter what their politics or religious beliefs. Habitat for Humanity is an example.

Because the organization is grounded in "a hand up, not a hand out" and rewards all the great character traits—hard work, persistence, selflessness—that we believe our country was founded on, it has the respect of many.

Habitat for Humanity of Bucks County recently celebrated 20 years at its second annual signature event, Hard Hats & High Heels. Held at Keenan Motors in Doylestown on Nov 5, the gala fundraiser featured a lavish dinner, silent and live auctions and inspired—and inspiring—speakers.

The event raised more than $20,000 to help launch Habitat into its third decade.

Inspiration also played a role in decorating the tables. Members of the Artists of Yardley group took 30 pairs of donated black patent leather high heels and a collection of hard hats, plus sundry other items, and created festive, one-of-a-kind centerpieces.

"They were unique, just crazy, wild, fun, stunning pieces of art, each different," said Debbie Lynch, resource development director for Habitat Bucks. "They tied the event to Bucks County's rich artistic tradition."

Linda Andrews, Habitat of Bucks's executive director, talked about the 81 homes that have been completed and occupied in neighborhoods all over the county.

In fact, the 81^st home will be dedicated in Bristol Township on Saturday morning and the keys placed in the proud new owner's hand. Four other townhomes, also in Bristol Township, are under construction and awaiting that all-important dedication ceremony.

At the gala, Sharon Baxter, one of Habitat Bucks's first homeowners, spoke of taking ownership of her Habitat-built home on March 1, 1998. Besides her hours of hammering, tearing down walls, moving waste materials and painting on Habitat projects, her teenagers received credit for time spent in extracurricular activities such as sports and cheerleading practice.

Another homeowner at the event, Alice Zander, received the keys to her home just 18 months ago.

The event, for which 188 tickets were sold, featured 87 live and silent auction items—from works of art to sailing excursions on the Chesapeake. Cocktails and hors d'oeuvres were followed by the sumptuous dinner prepared by Kevin Blalock, executive chef at Lookaway Golf Club in Buckingham.

Three received special awards at the gala: Sara Bostancic, Volunteer of the Year; Peter S. Thompson, Spirit of Habitat for Humanity; and First Savings Bank, Corporate Partner.

Scott and Carolyn Belveal and Goldman Sachs were the gold-level sponsor—Scott is president of Habitat's board. K'Nex, Moore Energy and Univest were silver sponsors, and the Peter Sargent family was the table sponsor.

"The biggest challenge right now is raising money," said Lynch. "One of our goals for the next five years is to build up a land bank so we never stop building."

For more information:

Habitat for Humanity of Bucks County and ReStore

31 Oak Avenue
Chalfont, PA 18914
215.822.2812
www.habitatbucks.org