Dedication Event
Thrivent Builds Homes Quick Reference Guide
1) What is a dedication and why do one?
A Habitat house dedication serves several purposes. First and foremost, it is an opportunity to offer thanks to God and to seek God’s blessings upon the family and their new home. It is also an opportunity to thank those who have given their time and talents to build the house. The dedication should be a celebration. The ceremony brings together the house sponsor, construction volunteers, committee members, the board of directors and homeowners to celebrate the completion of a job well done. (From Habitat for Humanity International Celebrations guide, page 21.)
2) Who plans it?
The family, affiliate project leader, members of the Family Support committee, house sponsors, the Thrivent manager of community engagement and community engagement team, and other affiliate representatives should meet about 6 weeks before the dedication to plan the ceremony. Assignments need to be made for printing programs, obtaining a Bible, sending invitations, selecting participants in the ceremony and perhaps arranging for refreshments. The Affiliate Project Leader is responsible for ensuring everyone works together to plan the dedication. Consult the family about music and Scriptures they may wish to include. Ask what roles they would like to take in the service, and see if their clergy would be willing to participate.
3) When should it be done?
The dedication celebration should be held when the house construction is completed and the family is ready to move into the home. For Thrivent Builds Homes, the recommended timing is before December 31st.
4) What will make it successful?
A successful dedication should involve house sponsors, the manager of community engagement, community engagement team, Thrivent Financial representatives, construction volunteers, committee members, the board of directors, homeowners, clergy of congregations involved with the build, and local media. To ensure the best turnout, be sure to send invitations and media releases at least 2–3 weeks before the event.
5) What tools are available to help?
Pages 21–41 of the Habitat for Humanity International Celebrations guide contain suggestions for dedication ceremony services. The Celebrations guide is available on My.Habitat.
Thrivent Builds Resources (search Tools by Topic under Thrivent Builds Homes for Events) also contains a dedication planning worksheet, media kit, news release template, newsletter/web text and bulletin insert, and other tools.
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