SIERRA VISTA — After building 15 affordable homes for families in Sierra Vista since 1994, Habitat for Humanity had it’s own open house Saturday.

The local affiliate for the nonprofit hosted the dedication of their new office space at Cochise Vista Plaza, 2151 S. Highway 92, Suite 118.

Having a space of their own will hopefully allow the group to gain volunteers and build more homes, said Karl Hallsten, president.

The organization has nine directors on it’s board and at least more are needed. Two houses are under construction and are expected to be done by Thanksgiving.

The Southern Arizona Harley Riders donated $1,000 to Habitat for Humanity Saturday which helped to dedicate their newly opened offices. Presenting the check to Habitat for Humanity president, Karl Hallsten, right, is Southern Arizona Harley Riders president, “Smokey.” Also representing the motorcycle club is treasurer Debbee Watkins, left, and member Geoff Eastwood. (Mark Levy-Herald/Review)

Habitat for Humanity has been housed in a church and used members homes for activities but now they have a place of their own, said Evetta Jones, secretary.

With a central location for records Habitat can be much more efficient than ever before, Jones said. The new office will also give the organization a greater presence in the community, said Ray Buchard, the construction committee chair.

The office received a surprise visit from members of the Southern Arizona Harley Riders. The riders came with a $1,000 donation.

“We’re challenging every other club to match it,” said the president of the group, who goes by “Smokey.”

The riders give about $30,000 a year to local charities, from children’s activities to care for the elderly and the cause of Habitat for Humanity was one they wanted to support.

Suzi Brackhahn, a member of the riders, said she understands the needs that families face and appreciates what Habitat does.

For each home built Habitat for Humanity must raise about $55,000 or more, Hallsten said.

To raise funds for the upcoming year, they will have a spaghetti dinner at Landmark Cafe Nov. 5, are selling tickets for the Festival of Giving at The Mall at Sierra Vista and gift wrapping at there after Thanksgiving.

Starting this week, the new office hours will be Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. For information, call 378-6966 or visit www.sierravistahabitat.org.

Herald/Review reporter Laura Ory can be reached at 515-4683.