Despite inclement weather, the spirits of Orchid Island Golf and Beach Club residents were undampened as they gathered at the stunning home of Andrea and Bryan Davidson to support Indian River Habitat for Humanity.
As they sought shelter from the elements, guests showed support for a mission that has become increasingly vital as the cost of living continues to climb.
Whether donating money, hammering nails alongside future homeowners, or volunteering at the ReStore, Orchid Island residents support those who need help to realize their dreams of homeownership.
“Without your generosity, this wouldn’t work,” said John Morrow, Orchid Habitat chairman.
Introducing Gina Wickel, a recipient of an Orchid Island-sponsored Habitat house, Morrow stressed that it was “important to see where your dollars go and who it helps.”
“It’s my dream to have my own house. It’s been a while, and I kept applying. At long last, I got it,” said Wickel, her voice choked with emotion.
A major component of the Habitat program is that future homeowners are required to contribute “sweat equity” hours by working alongside volunteers to build their own Habitat home and those of others. The houses represent more than just four walls; they are sanctuaries for the homeowners and their families.
“Six out of every 10 families in Indian River County are paying more than 50 percent of their income on their housing costs. Think about that burden. To live here, to work here, to support all of us in the service industry, these folks are struggling every day,” said Trevor Loomis, Indian River Habitat president and CEO.
“That’s why programs like Habitat come in; to make housing affordable, to help these families to take the next step toward opportunity for a better life,” Loomis added, before thanking everyone for their support.
Morrow closed by praising the Orchid residents for their donations and volunteer hours, noting, “It’s countless hours, but it adds so much to the whole picture.”
Since its inception, Indian River Habitat for Humanity has built a legacy of stability. To date, the affiliate has built or renovated 561 homes and completed 907 critical home repairs, with the assistance of 10,655 volunteers who contributed 651,855 hours of service.
Beyond construction sites, Habitat invests in the future. Since 2009, they have awarded 1,888 scholarships to empower Habitat homeowners and their children to achieve financial independence and long-term stability.
For more information, visit IRCHabitat.org.
Photos by Joshua Kodis
