Habitat for Humanity of Greater Newburgh's 25th Anniversary

Habitat for Humanity of Greater Newburgh commemorated its 25th anniversary with a Gala on Saturday, July 20, 2024. 

(HFHGN) has served over 100 local families in 25 years. Habitat for Humanity of Greater Newburgh's impact on affordable housing in the City of Newburgh demonstrates its success built through the collective action of its supporters such as partner families, donors, and volunteers. 

We share much gratitude and continue to be inspired by our incredible supporters who have built homes, supported our partner families as family advocates and Coffee Breaks in hospitality, and of course, the Habitat Newburgh ReStore, which also allocates proceeds for the cost of housing. 

Our work has transformed entire neighborhoods through neighborhood revitalization and as a direct correlation has built stronger communities.

We are honored to have served the City of Newburgh for the last 25 years, and 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.

Here are three quotes from our leadership:

"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 and many new faces in the Habitat Community. We are so grateful for everyone who came out and celebrated with us!"

-Executive Director, Jill Marie 

"Habitat’s 25th-anniversary gala at the Silk Factory was a grand affair.  Over 200 attendees enjoyed the music, video, live art, silent auction, emcee Paul Ernenwein, and speakers.  Habitat homeowners, volunteers, staff, supporters, politicians, funders, and past and present board members gathered to celebrate the 110 homes dedicated in Newburgh.  Six of the ten Habitat Presidents attended.

The 25-year history and the vision for the future of Habitat Newburgh were presented. As people danced the night away, I thought, “I hope the 50th celebration is even better.”  How fortunate Mary Murphy and I have been to be part of the Habitat Newburgh family."

-Founder of Habitat for Humanity of Greater Newburgh, Bill Murphy


"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. Of special note was the recognition of Mary and Bill Murphy, as founders, volunteers, and funders of the organization. To commemorate their long-time dedication, a house planned at 27 Gail Place, in the Town of Newburgh, will be named the Bill and Mary Murphy house. This property was purchased with funds from the MacKenzie Scott grant, awarded to Habitat in 2022. 


The evening event took place at the Silk Factory and featured a silent auction, live entertainment, a live art demonstration by David Lionheart, dinner, and dancing. Paul Ernenwein was the emcee. Paul, known to many as Mr. Newburgh introduced the speakers and provided his first-hand account, as a 4th generation Newburgher, of the impact of Habitat on the community."

-Board President, Paul Brothe