March 2022

Runway 2022 8 Mermaid Lounsbury Element Winner 1 Web

Habitat’s Runway a Success

Events / 2 minutes of reading

(Brookings, SD, March 25, 2022) Designers and models took the spotlight as “Nail the Runway” hit the stage on March 19th at the Swiftel Center. The annual Habitat fundraiser raised $45,000 to build affordable homes in Brookings and Lake County.

The event allows people to design outfits for a fashion show, as long as the outfits are primarily made of construction materials. This year designers incorporated the featured element of ’tile.’ Seventeen different costumed models worked the runway to show the designers’ amazingly creative results.

The public was also able to vote for their favorite designs as well as bid on dozens of items available via an online silent auction.

“It was amazing to see everyone having such a fun night while helping us make a real difference for the Brookings community,” event emcee Randy Grimsley said.

The 2023 Nail the Runway gala will return to the Swiftel Center March 18. The featured element of ‘paint’ will see come colorful designs try to Nail the Runway. If you or your group would like to receive information about being part of the event, please call Jana at the Habitat offices at 605-697-2540.

PHOTOS (courtesy Jim Hopewell and Kyle Marker):

Most Wearable—Derby Delight designed by Wendy Long, modeled by Alison Hestermann

Best Use of Design Element—Mermaid designed by Kayla Lounsbury and BK Home Builders, modeled by Eloisa Silverio
Most Innovative Use of Construction Materials AND
People’s Choice Awards —Warrior of Peace designed by Julia Schaar, modeled by Logan Schaar
Best of Show– Let it Go designed by Jill Kruse, modeled by Allie Anderson

Habitat’s Runway a Success

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Johnson Tours Brookings Habitat

News / 2 minutes of reading

(Brookings, SD, March 2, 2022) – South Dakota Congressman Dusty Johnson recently visited Brookings to learn more about the housing crisis and Brookings Area Habitat for Humanity’s response.

In search of possible local solutions to the national crisis, Johnson toured some of the properties Habitat has worked on over the last 27 years.

“There’s much work to be done,” Habitat Executive Director Dan McColley said. “After being part of the housing crisis discussions in Washington, D.C., it was great that Representative Johnson followed through to learn more about local housing issues with his visit.”

McColley gave Johnson a driving tour of Brookings, including highlights of various Habitat homes, other developments, and growth of the area while discussing the growing need for affordable housing.


“We know the legislature often has proposals or discussions regarding housing,” said McColley. “We’re grateful to be able to bring our nearly three decades of experience to the conversation.”

Johnson was joined by BAHFH’s Board President, Kay Norton, BAHFH’s Resource Development Director Randy Grimsley and Hannah Kagey from Johnson’s staff. Since its inception in 1995, Brookings Habitat has helped build safe and affordable homes in Brookings, Aurora, Volga, and Madison for qualified candidates. They are currently working to build their 81st home in the area.

Future Habitat homeowner Brianna Doran (left) and Brookings Habitat Executive Director Dan McColley (center) show the progress on a current Habitat home build with Representative Dusty Johnson.
Habitat ReStore Operations Manager Josh Reynhout (left) shares how the ReStore helps fund Habitat homes with Representative Dusty Johnson.

Johnson Tours Brookings Habitat

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