Habitat breaks ground on new home

"The compassion for others and the eagerness to help better our community that is exhibited by all Habitat volunteers is amazing," future Habitat homeowner Dawn Holmes said during a groundbreaking last week.

David and Dawn Holmes broke ground on the third parcel at Sisters Habitat for Humanity's Village Meadows neighborhood while they were surrounded by many friends and volunteers who help make it possible for families to own affordable homes in Sisters.

"There are a lot of selfless acts and kindness from everyone down at the job-site," David said of the many volunteers who help build the homes. "I think it's pretty uncommon for most communities to be that giving. This is a pretty special Habitat, and the support we've received from this community is something we've not experienced elsewhere," he said.

When a family is selected for the homebuilding process, the future homeowners are teamed up with family partners. These are Habitat volunteers who help the family navigate the homebuilding road. Family partners for David and Dawn are Jerry and Rosalie Hanford and Lauren Beyerinck. Each partner shared encouraging words for David and Dawn before the couple placed the golden shovel into the ground. Dawn brought a burning bush plant to the ceremony and had asked everyone to put a handful of dirt from the property in the pot. She hopes to plant the bush when they move into the home next year.

The future home for the Holmes family will be the third house built in the 17-lot neighborhood. The Holmes have lived in Sisters for five years, and enjoy the outdoor activities that Central Oregon has to offer. David makes and repairs saddles and leatherwork and Dawn works at St. Charles Family Care in Sisters.

"The process of becoming a homeowner can sometimes take up to two years, Sisters Habitat Executive Director Sharlene Weed said. "Families go through an application process, and once selected earn sweat-equity hours by volunteering at the Thrift Store, ReStore, or construction site. They also help build their own home along with construction volunteers and the staff construction manager.

"Sisters Habitat for Humanity is an option for many qualified families to achieve strength, stability, and the independence they need to build a better life for themselves and their families," said Weed.

Those interested in homeownership or the Sisters Habitat home-repair program can visit www.sistershabitat.org and review the qualification guidelines.