Reservists "raise the roof" for Delaware Habitat for Humanity

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Andria J. Allmond
  • 512th AW Public Affairs
DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. --  Liberty Wing Airmen helped local volunteers and members of Central Delaware Habitat for Humanity build a home in Dover during the June unit training assembly here May 5.

Seven members of the 512th Civil Engineer Squadron spent their morning raising trusses and sheeting the roof of the home, which is slated for completion in five to six months.

"The military volunteers we have here have been so amazing," said Carol Eagle, Central Delaware Habitat for Humanity building committee chairman. "They give us manpower that comes with a lot of experience. The Air Force folks are great to have around; some even bought materials for this project with their own money."

The majority of the Airmen at the site have structure-related Air Force specialties, as well as non-military construction experience - like Tech. Sgt. Darin Ransaw, 512th CES member and a contractor in his civilian career.

"During our squadron meeting this morning, we were asked for volunteers for this project," he said. "Since this is what we do for the Air Force, a bunch of our raised our hands. So, we're here doing whatever we can to help out a great cause."

The idea was brought to civil engineers by Master Sgt. Dave Guenthner, 512th CES explosive ordnance disposal technician, who has volunteered on this house since the project began May 8.

"Since this is a UTA weekend, I figured it was a good opportunity to get our reservists out here to help out," said the master sergeant. "It's an excellent cause, and everyone here seems to be having a great time and working at their own pace."

For approximately 25 years, Habitat for Humanity has helped low-income families construct their future home with the help of volunteer labor and donations. Habitat houses are sold to the families at no profit and financed with no-interest loans. The homeowners' monthly mortgage payments are used to build more houses.

This house, the organization's second construction project this year, is being built for the Loder family -- David, Vivian and their four children. The husband-wife team is required to put in 500 working hours on the house per program criteria. Families are selected based upon actual need for housing, ability to pay and willingness to partner on future Habitat for Humanity projects.

Pat Scanlon, Central Habitat for Humanity president, said volunteer hours normally take place on Saturdays, but vary due to weather and holidays.

For more information on Central Delaware Habitat for Humanity or to find out how to volunteer, log on to: http://www.centraldelawarehfh.com/