Abstract:
My dissertation focuses on the political economy of nonprofit social enterprises, or voluntary organizations with social missions, through an examination of the practices and performance of Habitat for Humanity. Habitat for Humanity is an international nonprofit organization that provides the opportunity of owning affordable, modest homes to low-income individuals living in inadequate housing. The organization has over 1,500 affiliates in cities and counties across the United States that focus on fostering sustainable homeownership (through a structured program of workshops, sweat equity, and reduced mortgages) rather than just providing housing to the poor.
