Askrecy wishes to salute Habitat for Humanity and the Jimmy Carter Work Project for their amazing job of building 100 homes in one week right here in Houston. 6,000 volunteers took part, working in 100 degree weather, with the common goal of putting families who could not otherwise afford it into their own homes. This organization helps make the American Dream a possibility for everyone.
One reason why Habitat for Humanity works to rebuild troubled neighborhoods is that the families invest "Sweat Equity" into their new homes, working at least 300 hours on the home to qualify. People who are just looking for a handout need not apply. The homes are made affordable for low-income families through volunteer participation, no-interest mortgages, and non-profit development. Communities troubled by crime and drugs are given a second chance when committed new homeowners take root and reclaim the neighborhood for their families.
This week's building marathon is only a beginning of addressing the problems of working Houstonians who cannot afford good housing, but it shows that when people work together they can make a real difference. If you can imagine how the 100 families must feel to have their own new homes, you can see that those 6,000 volunteers have reason to be proud.