Musician hosts special build day

Musician Luke Dowler will host Habitat for Humanity of Flathead Valley’s first “celebrity build day” today as he helps the organization build new affordable homes in Columbia Falls.

Volunteers are encouraged to come spend the day building with Dowler at the Habitat for Humanity build site at 8 Mitchell Way.

Dowler also plans to donate half of the proceeds from a new album that he’s releasing this summer to Habitat for Humanity.

“It may sound a bit trite, but I’ve always wanted to make a difference with my music,” said Dowler.

“During the recent recession I saw friends lose their homes. A home helps a family stay together and build a life. Now that I have a family, Habitat’s work to provide affordable housing really hit home. I made a connection and I want to give back locally.”

Dowler started his music career during his senior year at Flathead High School. He has since released seven albums and played for audiences throughout Montana, Canada the Northwest and California.

He and his band The Savage Gentlemen play at the Craggy Range in Whitefish on Thursday and at Scotty’s Bar in Kalispell on Friday and Saturday. They will also perform at Raceway Park’s Coors Light Montana 200 on July 18.

Habitat for Humanity of Flathead Valley Executive Director Christine Morris said the organization is thrilled to have Dowler’s support. “While Luke’s songs offer us a window into our souls, building Habitat homes opens a door to our hearts,” she said.