Business
This week, I wanted to introduce you to a home builder who has taken charitable giving to a whole new level. And he’s done it in a way that allows him to pretty much run “business as usual” while impacting thousands all across the world. Jeff Rutt is the Owner and CEO of Keystone Custom Homes in Lancaster, Pennsylvania who builds several hundred homes each year. Back in the late 90’s – after connecting with a sister church across the ocean – Jeff was called to find a way to help individuals in underdeveloped countries who were struggling with poverty. He quickly realized that a straight-up “hand out” was not the best approach. So, he turned to the concept of Christ-centered micro-finance loans to provide seed money to folks who wanted to start a business and grow that money into a self-sustaining (and thriving) existence. These loans are around $20 – which doesn’t seem like much at all; however, in those countries in which Jeff found himself helping, twenty bucks goes a long way! Jeff founded Hope International – a 501c.3. non-profit organization to provide permanent solutions to poverty while restoring dignity in families – to formalize his vision. And he’s grown that organization to the point that it’s loaned out over a BILLION dollars. When he started out, Jeff figured out a way to fund his organization using the skills and tasks he did every day – building homes. He reached into the hearts of the Trade Partners and Vendors with the mission in front of him and found that most shared his desire to do good in the world. Since they could use their daily skills and time in the same way as normal, Jeff quickly found partners who could help. And that’s where Homes for Hope started. He built a house with partners who discounted (or donated) time and materials to build a new home that sold at market rate. The proceeds from that home funded the micro-finance loan program. So, Jeff started talking to other home builders about doing the same thing. Now, home builders across the United States have signed up to do their own Home for Hope. Listen in on my interview with Jeff Rutt. Perhaps you’ll find it in your heart to participate in this program, too – OR – maybe you’ll be inspired to take your passion or calling and do good in your own way!