1994
Breaking Ground
Habitat for Humanity of Bergen County was founded.
Our Story
the heart behind Habitat building real change in Bergen County
How one idea grew into hundreds of homes, thousands of volunteers,
and a stronger Bergen County.
How We Started:
Founded in 1994, Habitat for Humanity of Bergen County began as a grassroots effort to address the critical need for affordable housing.
What started with a few passionate community members has grown into a powerful movement, helping families across the county achieve homeownership.
Helping families to achieve homeownership
We partner with families, the community, and local municipalities to build safe and affordable housing.
A portion of our proceeds goes to supporting Habitat for Humanity International, which responds to humanitarian housing crisis both domestically and abroad.
The Effect of Homeownership
Affordable homeownership helps create the conditions that free families from stress and fear, helping build stability and confidence.
Studies show that strong and stable households are foundational to child development and growth. When a home supports health and safety, families can flourish.
Owning an affordable home also allows homeowners to lift up their entire family by saving for their futures and investing in educational opportunities — bolstering job opportunities and long-term career growth.
Mission & Vision
driven by purpose,
guided by vision
We work within the communities we serve to create pathways to homeownership and build partnerships that support workforce and economic development through training, exposure, and mentorship.
Habitat for Humanity of Bergen County, Inc. is a people-to-people partnership that brings us together regardless of race, nationality, religion, or socioeconomic status.
Mission Statement
Habitat for Humanity of Bergen County, Inc. brings people together to build homes, communities, and hope.
Vision for the Future
A Bergen County where everyone has a safe, decent, and affordable place to live. We envision a future where communities are stronger because every family has the foundation they need to thrive.
Our Core Values
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Housing -
Community -
Sustainability -
Partnership -
Education
How We Make a Difference
changing lives,
one home at a time
Every project, every volunteer hour, and every donation builds something bigger.
History & Milestones
a legacy of building dreams
Milestones that reflect decades of hope, hard work,
and transformation.
and transformation.
2009
ReStore Launch
Opened our flagship ReStore, pioneering sustainable construction practices.
2013
Repair, Rebuild, ReStore
Launched Superstorm Sandy relief efforts.
2024
30 Years
Celebrated our anniversary by completing a new home.
The Team
meet the people behind the mission
Leaders, staff, and volunteers working together to make affordable housing a reality.
Jonathan Senos
President – Board of Directors
Jimmy Motsay
ReStore Director
Gary Kuhl
Construction Director
Gary is a seasoned construction professional and Project Manager with 40+ years of experience in all facets of construction.
He oversees all building projects, ensuring homes are constructed safely, on time, within budget, and in compliance with industry standards and regulations.
Cora DeSolis
Executive Administrator
Cora brings four years of non-profit experience as well as six years in the retail marketing industry to our team.
She provides support for family services, homeowner support programming, fundraising, and volunteer engagement.
Thaddeus Orlowski
Volunteer Engagement Coordinator
Thad brings 21 years of nonprofit experience, incl…
Thaddeus Orlowski
Volunteer Engagement Coordinator
Thad brings 21 years of nonprofit experience, including community outreach/relations and program development to the team.
Thad recruits, tracks and supports coordination for corporate and individual volunteers as well as youth programs. He works closely with the site supervisor to facilitate all team and workshop builds.
Tom LoRusso
Site Supervisor
Tom is a retired Union Trades construction worker with experience in hands-on building, project management, and team coordination.
Tom manages the day-to-day construction activities on the build site, directing volunteers and subcontractors, ensuring safety and quality standards
Daniel Kosa
ReStore Manager
Partner Organizations
our partners in building a better Bergen County
Collaboration makes our work possible.
We are proud to work with local businesses, faith organizations, civic groups, and corporate sponsors who believe everyone deserves a decent place to live.
How We Work
how Habitat Bergen builds
homes and community
Every home we build begins with community need — and ends with a stronger future.
Identifying Community Needs
We assess housing needs in Bergen County
and work with local partners to plan projects.
Partnering with Families
Families apply for homeownership, demonstrating need, ability to pay, and willingness to partner.
Securing Land & Funding
We raise funds through donations, grants, corporate sponsorships, and ReStore sales.
Restore Contributions
Habitat Bergen’s ReStore provides critical funding by selling donated goods, helping build more homes.
Volunteers & Teams
Volunteers, partner families, and sponsors work side by side to build safe, affordable homes.
Affordable Homeownership
Partner families purchase their homes with an affordable mortgage, paying it forward for future families.
Financial Report
financial accountability
& transparency
We are committed to the highest standards of stewardship and transparency. Review our financial reports to see how every dollar drives our mission forward.
