TWIN FALLS — Guests were in high spirits Friday afternoon as Nelson-Jameson donated $1,500 to support Habitat for Humanity's annual Rim2Rim race. This year, the organization became a corporate sponsor, creating more opportunities for the non-profit to help families across the Magic Valley. The Rim2Rim Race4Homes is a 46-year tradition in the Magic Valley that helps Habitat for Humanity continue providing affordable homes for local families in need.
It began as a fundraiser for the College of Southern Idaho cross country team, and the race, often organized by the racers themselves, has grown from 198 participants to as many as 500 over the years. The generous donations and sponsors help the organization keep the race up and running each year, Linda Fleming, executive director of Habitats for Humanity of the Magic Valley, said. "The race requires our beautiful donors to come in at whatever level is meaningful to them," Fleming said.
"Every dollar counts for us." This year, participants in both the Rim2Rim and half-rim races will earn a complimentary medal for their efforts. In a tight housing market, the Habitat for Humanity of the Magic Valley's work is necessary.
Future homeowners the organization partners with must prove they are living in substandard housing, have a consistent income and can put in 300-500 hours of volunteer time before purchasing their new home. "We've been building here in the Magic Valley since 1991, helping over 100 parents and their 200-plus children.