EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR'S MESSAGE

"Wow. She is a strong woman." I've notice recently that I say this a lot.

Like last year after a homeowner called a local media outlet to demand they stop running a story where an interviewee mistakenly identified a neighbor has a Habitat homeowner. The homeowner knew the closest Habitat home was well over a mile from the location of the incident. "Habitat are good people. I'm tired of being trashed" she proclaimed.

Strong woman was used again as I heard a homeowner talk about how she collected three bids and negotiated a price to replace her furnace after more than 17 years in her home. She saved her money, did her research and found a difference of $1000 in the bids.

It was said again when a board member with an extensive background with a title company told me how impressed he was when a future homeowner asked countless, thought-provoking questions regarding her forthcoming mortgage payments, property taxes, loan details, escrows, and property insurance.

I remember when I started with Habitat, I thought how great it was to help "the less fortunate." Was I wrong about this job!!! I'm not helping the less fortunate.

I'm working WITH people who have decided to take control of their lives. Families who have taken a tremendous leap of faith as they have left the security of landlords as problems solvers and relocation as the answer. They have chosen independence and continuity in their lives and the lives of their children.

One afternoon, a new homeowner stopped by my office with her three children. I remember watching them climb all over her - tugging at her clothes, giggling and making demands of her attention.

It hit me like a brick. She has kids who love and admire her, she has a job and now her own home. She's not less fortunate. She is tremendously Blessed! Habitat for Humanity is just another resource in her life that she is utilizing to improve her personal and financial position as she raises her children.

What a joy to be a part of this organization. I hope that all the volunteers, donors and Habitat advocates feel this same joy as they tirelessly support our mission. Thank you for all that you do for our homeowners and our community!

Tonya Thayer

Habitat for Humanity International is a nonprofit, ecumenical Christian housing ministry, working in partnership with people in need to build and renovate decent, affordable housing. The houses then are sold to those in need at no profit and with no interest charged.