BUILDING HOPE THROUGHAFFORDABLE HOUSING

by Christie Cellman, IVHFH AmeriCorps member
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Saturday, July 27th marked the Billie Townsend Women Build Groundbreaking Ceremony and Frame-A-Thon events hosted by Iowa Valley Habitat for Humanity. Dozens of individuals, families, and organizational leaders gathered to celebrate as the crew broke ground on Nagi and Raddiya’s future home, and everyone transitioned to the Habitat warehouse to decorate the 2x4 studs that will frame their family’s living space.

​As both an AmeriCorps representative and a community member, it was inspiring to see our people rally around Nagi and Raddiya’s family. Folx from different races, religions, abilities, and life experiences came together in celebration and it was absolutely electric.

There were no politics, no squabbles, no uncertainty—just love.

As I decorated a stud alongside my daughter, surrounded by conversation, laughter, and the pitter-patter of children’s feet against the cement, I reflected on my own experience with Habitat and how they afforded me the freedom of accessibility through their Helping Hands program.

I was trapped in my home, segregated from my community due to physical disability, and Habitat built a ramp, allowing me to make budget-friendly payments for materials. This act of kindness afforded me the ability to attend and earn three degrees, and so much more. I say this not to detract from Nagi and Raddiya’s experience, but to drive home the
fact that these “hands up” for affordable and accessible housing have enormous impacts – socially, economically, and generationally.

As my fiancé captured some of the event’s most candid moments, I recognized that we weren’t just preparing to frame Nagi and Raddiya’s home but also their future. This experience means more than shelter, it means potential. It means wealth accumulation and security for their children and future generations as well. As they make memories surrounded by the messages of love, blessings, and encouragement hidden behind their walls, they will be an example of what can be possible when communities unite for a purpose greater than themselves.

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