“What an honor it is to be a part of Habitat For Humanity of DeKalb County! The workday starts with our Executive Director Roy Smith and board member John Horst (Horst Construction) digging holes and pouring concrete for deck footings. The lads from Integrity Drywall are mudding. Elite Doors have already installed the garage door. Our suppliers and a team of workers are a unique group.
You can find us, most Saturdays, at 450 E Elm St in Sycamore. We are a faith-based organization and yet we don’t argue about our own chosen religions. I’m sure we all have different political philosophies and yet we still work elbow to elbow. We laugh a lot (Hey look! Marshall just drove a staple into the palm of his pickin’ hand!) It’s just the best of the community building community. This project would not have happened without the financial support of Thrivent, The First National Bank of Omaha, Ideal Industries, and others. Or without the gracious donations of time and material from Tom Wagner and Weaver Construction. Roof and siding from Tip Top Roofing. And the list goes on and on. Forgive me if I’ve missed you but feel free to shout out and be recognized!
And, of course, our volunteers! Too numerous to mention all but a special shout out to the nurses of Kishwaukee Community Hospital’s ICU who put forth an amazing effort last week!
And lunch sponsors. Wow! Dan Kenney, Jackie Kleck DiNatale, and DeKalb County Community Gardens who are also gonna help the Austin family grow their own fresh produce. “For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink”- Matthew
The Brian Oster Clan and OC Creative. And of course, our very own Vicky Smith who is always available to bring bottles or run errands! Bottom line, this is an amazing example of people helping people. With all that’s going on in our country now, we can still unite and make a change in our own little corner of the world.
Yes, you too can volunteer! (They let me …. soooo …) The only requirement is to be bipedal.
And all this is happening during COVID-19! Yes, we follow a strict policy. The cost of materials has gone through the roof. Supply chains have been disrupted. And we continue to make great progress. This will be the future home for the ‘Austin Family’.”
I want to thank fellow Veteran Michael Embrey and DeKalb County Online for promoting this project.
And soon, in the words of the great rock poet Phillip Phillips:
“Hold on, to me as we go …
As we roll down this unfamiliar road …
And although this wave is stringing us along …
Just know you’re not alone …
‘Cause I’m going to make this place your home…”
Marshall Boyle, Habitat For Humanity Volunteer
US Military Veteran … and someone who cares
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