On December 16, 2020, Branden and a small group of his family and friends gathered together, socially-distanced and wearing masks, inside his new home in the heart of the 8twelve area. Staff lovingly decorated the home with strands of lights and assembled a donated tree as a symbol of the family’s new life together in this safe place.

Branden is a single father of two smart, energetic children; Landen, who is eight and enjoys playing baseball and the outdoors; and Madilyn, who just turned five and loves playing with her Barbie dolls. Thanks to Branden’s ambition, and our donor’s support, his family will have one home for the rest of his children’s lives. They will have one bus stop, one kitchen table at which to do homework, one place to celebrate holidays and birthdays, and one neighborhood to call their own.

Muncie Habitat for Humanity partners with local families, like Branden’s, who are interested in working with Habitat for Humanity to purchase a home with a no-profit, no-interest mortgage. Each Habitat home is a collaboration of volunteers contributing hundreds of labor hours, visionary donors providing essential funds, and our partner families, who invest their own sweat equity into providing a better future for their families. Each of these pieces is absolutely integral to turning ordinary houses into extraordinary Habitat Homes.

“Each home we build and dedicate is a symbol of God’s love in action,” stated Muncie Habitat CEO, Lindsey Arthur. “People from all walks of life coming together to focus on our shared belief— that housing is fundamental to a thriving family! Branden and his family are a beacon of hope and light in this neighborhood and we are thrilled be a small part of their family story.”

Another addition to the usual dedication was the bookcase filled with books, family activities and games, donated in memory of community leader and Habitat advocate, Pat Botts.

“Family time and education in the safety and comfort of our homes was important to one of Habitat’s strongest advocates, and leaders, Pat Botts”, explained the letter presented to the family from The Muncie, Indiana Friends of Pat Botts. Botts served as the Board Chair for Muncie Habitat for many years, and is remembered as a strong ally in providing affordable housing opportunities for local families.

The event was documented beautifully by local photographer Amanda Kishel, of Kishel Photography, who graciously donated her time, and talents.

Since Muncie Habitat’s inception in 1986, our supporters, volunteers, and partner families have provided new and improved housing options to more than 220 families.

Anyone who would like to become involved with Muncie Habitat is encouraged to reach out at info@munciehabitat.org! We are always looking for new volunteers, partner families, and ways to put generous funds into action for local families. ️

Thank you to all of our 2020 Housing Funders!

Gifts $50,000 and Up

Ball Brothers Foundation
The Community Foundation of Muncie & Delaware County
George and Frances Ball Foundation
Mutual Bank Charitable Foundation
Vectren Foundation

 

Gifts $10,000 – $49,999

The Hamer D. and Phyllis C. Shafer Foundation
Navient Employees
Women Build Teams

 

Gifts under $10,000

Lowe’s Corporation
Old National Bank Foundation
Robert Wood Johnson Foundation