Kushner employees get behind hammer for Habitat.

Employees of Kushner Properties, which manages nearly 5 million s/f of commercial space across five states, emerged from their offices last week, traded suits and ties for t-shirts and work gloves, and joined hundreds of volunteers in a Habitat for Humanity "community build" project to help construct affordable homes for those in need.

The project, sponsored by Habitat for Humanity of Long Branch, took place in the Monmouth Mall parking lot in Eatontown, N.J., and involved the construction of prefabricated exterior and interior wall panels to be used in several Habitat homes. In 2002, Monmouth Mall was acquired by Kushner Companies and Ashkenazy Investment Company,. in a joint venture with Vornado Realty Trust (NYSE:VNO), an experienced retail property manager.

"Although we're more used to wielding pen and paper than hammer and nails, it was quite invigorating to get involved in a hands-on way," said Kevin Swill, president of Kushner Properties. "We view community action and outreach as a core company value. Being a part of the team on this project, experiencing the camaraderie and sense of accomplishment, was very exciting for all of us. I know that the volunteers benefit from such activities as much as those we seek to help."

Habitat for Humanity helps low-income families achieve the dream of home ownership and provides housing for those who have lost their homes due to natural and other disasters. For this project, the organization arranged for volunteers to work in three-hour shifts, with up to 16 people on a shift, over a two-week span. Area businesses must have made a financial contribution of at least $2,500 to the project in order to be a corporate sponsor.