Kicking Off the Iowa Valley Habitat for Humanity Morning Sun Build!

Earlier this May, Iowa Valley Habitat for Humanity (IVHFH) kicked off an exciting new project with a casual open house at 103 Vine Street in Morning Sun—the future site of a new Habitat for Humanity home! Neighbors gathered to celebrate the start of something meaningful. Local residents Adam and Amy Herrick fired up the grill, serving burgers, hot dogs, and homemade potato salad, creating the perfect atmosphere to welcome community members and introduce them to the upcoming build. 

Some of our own staff brought their children along, and it was fun to see them driving toy monster trucks through the dirt and playing yard games on the lot. It was more than just fun—it was a glimpse of the laughter, life, and memories that the future Habitat family will bring to this space. 

As the evening went on, we had the pleasure of meeting several enthusiastic residents, including Bob Brown—a seasoned volunteer who led construction for the former Louisa County Habitat for Humanity affiliate for over a decade. Bob showed up wearing a shirt that read, “Handyman’s Rule: If at first you don’t succeed, use a bigger tool!”—and it quickly became clear he knew his way around a build site. We also met Trent Hoekstra, the local electrician at his business, Hoekstra Electric. He will be working on the home and appreciated the interest of other residents eager to learn more about the build. 

The event gave us the perfect opportunity to share details about the home and the exciting timeline ahead. With the foundation already in place, we explained that the home—constructed through the Homes for Iowa program as part of Iowa Prison Industries’ vocational training program—would be delivered and set on the site just three days later. 
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On Monday morning, the IVHFH construction crew was ready as the house made its way down Vine Street, marking a major milestone. Now, we’re diving into the next phase of the project—framing and finishing the basement, building a garage, and completing both interior and exterior work. 

Volunteers Needed!
As always, we’re calling on the power of community to bring this project to life. Volunteers are needed most Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays—no experience is necessary, just a willingness to lend a hand! 
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Become a Habitat Homeowner!
Another essential part of the journey is also underway; we’re in the process of selecting a Habitat homeowner—a family who will purchase this home with an affordable mortgage and make it their own. 

The Morning Sun Build is a testament to what’s possible when communities come together. We hope you’ll join us—on the build site or by spreading the word—as we help build strength, stability, and self-reliance through homeownership. 
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• Interested in becoming a Habitat homeowner? Contact our office at 319-337-8949.  
• Volunteer with us! Sign up for a volunteer shift. Anyone with questions about volunteering should contact Sammi at [email protected].