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Meet the House 5 Homebuyer:
How did you learn about the Habitat homeownership program?
I found out about Habitat sometime last year when I was searching for housing options. I was trying to buy a house but quickly discovered that was not possible with myself alone.
What motivated you to apply?
When I was reading the website about all that Habitat does as well as the homebuyers, it motivated me to apply. I liked how positive and encouraging things came across on the website, so I applied to learn more about the program as well as the process. The program gives people like my family a chance to have a house to call home.
Tell us about your family.
I work at Alomere Hospital doing clinical scheduling for providers. I am also in the “grow your own program” and was selected from the applicants to go back to school to become a Respiratory Therapist. I am currently finishing my first year of school and in the fall I will be starting my second year. My kids and I moved to Minnesota in 2022. We moved to be closer to my mom as well as her and my stepdad who said we would really like Alexandria. They were right - we absolutely love it here. I have four children, two girls and two boys. They have really adapted and love the winters here as well as sports. My girls took snowboarding lessons in which they have found their new favorite winter sport. My son tried wrestling and has been hooked ever since. My daughter loves to play sports, especially soccer. My son loves sports, but he hasn’t tried any yet. They all enjoy all the kids activities that Alexandria and surrounding areas offer. I take the kids to attend as much as we can. They absolutely love the youth outdoors day that is in the summer. My kids and I enjoy being active, walking or riding bikes on the trails.
What are you looking forward to about owning your own home? How do you think your life will change?
Making it our own is what I am looking forward to. We currently live in an apartment which means you can’t put your own touch on things to make it your own. I’m looking forward to having a place the kids can call home. The kids like our apartment but they want a home they can grow up in and have the height measurements marked on the wall as they grow. I think it will change for the better. My kids and I have been through a lot which left a negative impact on a home for the kids. The kids want a house to make their space their own and I’m so thankful that we have that opportunity. I am glad to be able to create a space that is theirs, a safe and loving home that will be ours.
What would you like to share with people helping to build your home?
Thank you for taking the time to help build a home for my family. We greatly appreciate it. I hope to see you out there on build days to thank you in person.
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How did you learn about the Habitat homeownership program?
I had known about Habitat for Humanity and its work for quite some time, but I first heard about potential ownership from one of the volunteers at the Douglas County HOH in early 2024. I am currently living in my parent's basement because housing options in Alexandria are too expensive for me, and she thought I might be a good candidate for the program.
What motivated you to apply?
I decided to apply for the program because I wanted to own a home and build my life in Alexandria, but prices were too steep for me and my student loans limit my spending ability. I knew what great work Habitat does and discovered that I might qualify for the program.
Tell us about your family.
I work at the Douglas County Historical Society in Alexandria! My job is to take care of the historic collection, develop exhibits, and manage the research library, as well as directing research volunteers. I grew up in Alexandria and went to Concordia College after graduating. My passion is history and museums, and I have worked at historical societies around the state for almost 10 years. Music is another love of mine; I enjoy singing in choirs and performing! I often sing for local funerals and weddings. I also love the outdoors and riding my family’s horses. My little dog Hank is my pride and joy—he and I are so excited to have a new home!
What are you looking forward to about owning your own home? How do you think your life will change?
I’m looking forward to having a place that is my own, where I can build relationships with neighbors and host my friends. I love to express myself with art and design, so I’m also excited to decorate.
What would you like to share with people helping to build your home?
What you do is so incredibly important — a home is everything! Safety, shelter, and a place to belong. I’m so incredibly grateful to the volunteers and staff at Habitat; I’m so excited and proud to be with you building my new home.
