In 2019, we lost a dear friend and committed Board member, Pat Botts. Pat was passionate about helping families create that legacy of peace, safety, love, and stability in owning a home. He wanted families to be able to give their children a place that they could always come back – and a place to grow, to have family dinners, Easter egg hunts, and Christmas celebrations – just like what he gave to his family.

When Pat spoke, people leaned in to listen. Pat was a connector of people and ideas. There are numerous people involved in Habitat today, because of Pat.

The MutualBank Charitable Foundation was pleased to fund a new Habitat home in memory of Pat.

Brandie is a Muncie native, but in many ways, she is just starting fresh in her life here. She and her three children, Zoie (15), Rhyan (14) and Ethan (11) are starting this new chapter of their lives with Muncie Habitat after experiencing many difficulties that could have deterred many others, including the passing of her youngest daughter, Ashlynn. “This is an opportunity where I can better myself,” explained Brandie. “A few things in my past made me want to quit, but I knew I wanted a better life for my children so I pushed myself. I applied twice to become a partner family, and in the past year I’ve started really thinking about my financial state. This process has made things I was leery or nervous about seem achievable. We currently live in an apartment and we don’t know who is next door or who has keys to our house. I’m looking forward to making friends with the neighbors and having a yard. This home will improve the health of my family and me.”   

Friends and family also may contribute to Pat’s lasting legacy by donating to Habitat for Humanity (Click here).

Pat has left a true legacy of leadership and compassion at Muncie Habitat and is deeply missed.