Habitat for Humanity of Greater Newburgh celebrated its 25th anniversary with a gala on Saturday, July 20, marking a quarter-century of service in providing affordable housing to low-income families. The event, held at the Silk Factory, featured a silent auction, live entertainment, a live art demonstration by David Lionheart, dinner, and dancing.
The gala, aimed at raising $350,000, drew dignitaries such as Newburgh Mayor Torrance Harvey, State Senator Rob Rolison, County Executive Steve Neuhaus, Assemblymember Jonathan Jacobson, Legislator Genesis Ramos, Legislator Kevindaryan Lujan, and Councilwoman Giselle Martinez. The gathering also honored Habitat Newburgh founders Mary and Bill Murphy, with a planned house at 27 Gail Place in the Town of Newburgh to be named in their honor.
Executive Director Jill Marie expressed gratitude to attendees, saying, “The vision of this event was to celebrate everyone who has made the past 25 years of Habitat for Humanity of Newburgh successful. It was an amazing night attended by past and present supporters as well as many new faces to the Habitat community. We are so grateful for everyone who came out and celebrated with us!”
Board President Paul Brothe highlighted the broad support for the organization, noting, “The 25th anniversary celebration was a stellar event, bringing together volunteers, community supporters, funders, politicians, staff, and board members. People came from across the county and as far afield as North Carolina and Maryland to celebrate 25 years of Habitat Newburgh’s contributions to Newburgh.”
Habitat Newburgh has built and sold 108 homes in the past 25 years and is currently working on 16 more.
The organization also provides financial literacy courses and home repair programs, aiming to strengthen neighborhoods through revitalization efforts. With a record 25 families currently in the homeownership program and over 200 on the waitlist, the need for affordable housing in the area remains critical.
“We are honored to have served the City of Newburgh for the last 25 years,” Marie added. “While we are reflecting on our work and celebrating the past, we are also building for the future and the initiatives we have in store.”
The funds raised at the gala will support ongoing and future projects, including new properties on Third Street across from Downing Park and the organization’s first property in the Town of Newburgh, currently in the planning stage.