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The Sea Island Habitat for Humanity is going green. The local chapter is shifting gears to bring energy-efficient, sustainable housing to the Lowcountry, starting with a project called McCloud Place on Wadmalaw Island. Four houses are part of this new village being built with very little impact to the land.

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The organization aims to provide affordable housing for low-income, working families and going green they hope to provide housing that will provide a lower impact on the environment and will save the families money in maintenance and energy costs.

Habitat for Humanity has teamed up with and adopted EarthCraft construction techniques which focus on site planning, waste management, indoor air quality, using sustainable materials, and gearing towards energy efficiency. The project also aims to use low VOC products, FSC certified lumber, recycled and renewable resources, as well as use local products. They have left the majority of the trees in place, and are focusing on a landscape utilizing native plants and garden space. For the weeklong build, the Coastal Conservation League will be featuring discussions on sustainability and reducing environmental impact each day.

Qualifying families are required to contribute 500 hours of "sweat equity."

They certainly have their work cut out for them, but are supported by a huge group of community volunteers, including Americorps. Nikki Seibert is the Green Coordinator for the Sea Island Habitat for Humanity and she educates the families on maintaining a green lifestyle through recycling, composting, and reminding people of the small tasks that make a difference, like turning out the lights when you leave a room. These fortunate families will be going green, living green, and saving green!

The Green Build event is going on right now (October 21 to 25) with daily shifts from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. So there is still time to volunteer! Grab your friends and sign up. The Sea Island Habitat for Humanity group is providing the tools, hard hats, and management. Lunch is provided daily by local businesses and restaurants.

The LEEP biodiesel bus will be providing transportation from the College of Charleston Library parking lot to the jobsite for volunteers on Saturday. They will be loading the bus from 10 a.m. and returning at 6:30 p.m.

And of course there is a party to celebrate! On Saturday from 3 to 6 p.m. volunteers, sponsors, and the families will be on site to celebrate an amazing mission accomplished. There will be live music, food, and drinks.

To get involved contact Anne Randall at (843) 768-0998 ext. 109 or seaislandhabitat.org.