of their path, one particular homeowner stands out to Bennett. He fondly remembers a woman who was of retirement age, working two part-time jobs just to pay her rent. He recalls her being one of the most hard- working women he’s ever met. Once she successfully completed the Habitat program, she was able to fully enjoy the many perks of retirement with an affordable mortgage on her home that is nestled in a quiet and safe Cheatham County neighborhood. Besides taking a step back and watching a new homeowner like her turn her house key for the very first time, those involved with the organization would certainly say that one of the most incredible parts of the journey is watching people come together to help. Of course, to make success stories like this possible in Cheatham County, Habitat needs immense community support. People can support the mission by sponsorships, being an advocate for affordable homeownership, sharing the Habitat program with friends and family who may want to apply for the program, and volunteering at build sites. “A large part of this success is due to our faithful and generous sponsors and volunteers who partner with Habitat to invest in the lives of those who go through our program,” Bennet adds with gratitude.
Attesting to the generosity of the locals, Habitat boasts nearly 200 volunteers each year at Cheatham County build sites. And during each unique construction process, business executives are on-site getting dirty alongside frontline workers and that team dynamic is a true recipe for success. Everyone is equal, and everyone is there for the same reason: to provide the life-changing opportunity of homeownership. Because future Habitat homeowners receive extensive budget and financial literacy training throughout the process, long-term success is very likely. Future Habitat homeowners invest 200 hours of “sweat equity” through classroom training and at the build site before they purchase their energy-efficient home with a 0% APR 30-year mortgage. Because of these key factors, the rate of Habitat foreclosures and mortgage defaults are extremely low. As the organization continues to serve Cheatham County, the biggest challenge they are facing is the availability of land. The team is actively working to identify and secure buildable lots so that more households can be served for years to come. In an effort to put God’s love into action, Habitat for Humanity builds more than houses. It builds homes. It builds dreams. And it builds communities filled with love, respect, and hope.
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