AEP and Habitat For Humanity MidOhio Complete 25th Home Build

Retirees and active employees worked to complete this house in Columbus for the Ba family.

AEP active and retired employees recently completed their 25th home build in central Ohio.

Since 1996, AEP has partnered with Habitat for Humanity (HFH) MidOhio to provide homes to families in need.  AEP is Habitat’s largest and longest serving regional partner.

Volunteers have served in roles ranging from roof installation to interior painting. And the AEP Foundation has provided financial support to many of these projects.

During this partnership, AEP and the AEP Foundation have contributed over $3 million, 12,000 volunteers and more than 78,000 hours to HFH MidOhio.

“Habitat for Humanity MidOhio has done so much for families in the region and the AEP Foundation is proud to support their work,” said Janelle Coleman, president, AEP Foundation. “Affordable housing is an ongoing issue for our communities, so we’re looking forward to continuing this partnership and supporting Habitat for Humanity MidOhio in the years to come.”

Keys to the milestone 25th home, located in the East Linden neighborhood, were turned over to the Ba family in January.

Eight AEP retirees supported this effort. Those volunteers include Jim Rosing, who led AEP’s partnership with HFH MidOhio for many years.

Kirk Nofzinger, audit engagement manager, has also been key to the partnership. Nofzinger helped organize the 25th build and has served as the partnership’s community champion since Rosing’s retirement.

“Every home we build is special because of what it means to the families,” said Nofzinger. “This project has added importance because it’s a milestone in our partnership with Habitat for Humanity. We’ve got great relationships and a lifetime of memories with their team.”

The Ba family home was built to meet green and energy efficiency standards. This provides a comfortable environment for the family and affordable monthly expenses.

Work on the 26th home is expected to begin in the summer.

“I would encourage all employees to consider volunteering for a local HFH project,” said Nofzinger. “You don’t need to have any construction experience to be helpful and the work is both fun and fulfilling. You’ll also build great relationships and make a lasting impact on a family in need.”