Soldiers, civilians build families

By Rita McIntosh, Public Affairs SpecialistAugust 25, 2014

Finishing Touches
1 / 3 Show Caption + Hide Caption – (Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL
Measuring Up
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Home Sweet Home
3 / 3 Show Caption + Hide Caption – This is one of six Habitat for Humanity Belmont Cottage home in Charlottesville, VA that was presented to the families during a dedication ceremony held recently. Project 20 is Habitat's commitment to build at least 20 homes annually in partnership ... (Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA -- Nearly a dozen Soldiers and civilians assigned to the National Ground Intelligence Center on Rivanna Station participated in Project 20 of the Habitat for Humanity of Greater Charlottesville. After nearly a year of construction, the Belmont Cottage homes were presented to the families during a recent dedication ceremony.

"The love for community and country means so much to us," said Sgt. 1st Class Janet Pearson, a volunteer on the project. "I am thankful for the Soldiers and civilians that volunteered with Habitat for Humanity to make someone's dreams come true."

Chauncey Banks, whose family was among the six families that moved into the community on Avon Street, said he was humbled by the Soldier's participation.

"We feel so special knowing that these Soldiers, who sacrifice so much for our country every day, have taken the time to come support each of us in building our dreams," Banks said.

Volunteering gave Annette Dellaganna, a civilian working at the NGIC, an opportunity to learn first-hand about Habitat's mission and projects.

"It was great to meet the future owners who participated with us on site and who truly appreciate our help," Dellaganna said. "I was very impressed by the quality of the work and how quickly this organization gets projects done. I look forward to working with them again on their next project."

The spirit of volunteerism helps Partner Families obtain simple, decent, affordable housing, said Garrett Trent, Volunteer Coordinator, Habitat for Humanity of Greater Charlottesville.

"We are incredibly grateful for all the work that our volunteers do," Trent said. "Through their, we were able to accomplish a lot at the Belmont Cottages construction and Project 20."

Project 20 is Habitat's commitment to build at least 20 homes annually in partnership with low-income families and the community. This year, thousands of community volunteers will work alongside Partner Families on a record 32 homes in healthy mixed-income communities like Burnet Commons III, Trent said.

Construction on Burnet Commons III on Elliott Avenue is scheduled to begin this summer, said Habitat Board Chair Jeanne McCusker.

"Together we really can make a lasting difference for families," McCusker said. "Thank you for volunteering with Habitat and for making a huge, positive impact on the community as a whole."