The N
ash home is being build in partnership with the Nash family and the Hibbing and Chisholm High Schools. The Hibbing Community College is also involved in the project with their electrical and construction equipment classes. Amber Nash and her family are excited to partner with the schools and are looking forward to moving into their new home as the 2013-2014 school year closes in June 2014. Until then students through the Applied Learning Institute will be using the home as their “class room” though out the year in learning about home construction.
HIBBING — As new Habitat homeowner Amber Nash Tuesday received a hammer from Nathan Thompson of North St. Louis County Habitat for Humanity (NSLCHFH), he stated that it represents the hard work and dedication of everyone that was involved in the project.
“But it is really a great tool that builds community with you,” added the nonprofit’s executive director.
A dedication for the house at 1212 15th Ave. E. in Hibbing was held Tuesday. The house marks the sixth home to be built in the Brooklyn neighborhood, Thompson said.
The house was also the sixth house built through a partnership with the Applied Learning Institute (ALI), Hibbing High School (HHS), Chisholm High School (CHS) and Hibbing Community College (HCC).
Representatives from those organizations and schools are responsible for making the partnership possible, Thompson said.
“It is not my brilliant idea, I just said ‘yes,’” he said.
The most important thing to remember is that all parties are working toward the same goal — affordable home ownership, said Roy Smith of ALI. “We need to keep in mind that we are all part of a bigger solution,” he said, adding that he too resides in the Brooklyn neighborhood. “Welcome to Brooklyn. You are in a good spot.”
HCC Dean of Academic Affairs and Student Services Mike Raich added his congratulations, then thanked everyone for allowing the college to participate in the project. “The students get learning opportunities that they wouldn’t otherwise have,” he said. “It is great to work with the high school, and most importantly … to help a family build a home of their own.”
HHS Principal Mike Finco agreed.
“This is a great opportunity for us every year,” he said. “And our instructors pay attention to detail so families can have a home as nice as if it were done by contractors.” Directing his comment toward Nash, Thompson said, “We are changing lives and we are grateful to be part of it.”
Nash thanked everyone who attended the dedication for taking the time to share the special moment with her and her family. “The past years haven’t been easy, but with the support of family and friends, this was made possible,” she said. “Yes, we got a house, but I believe it is more than that. We got a place we can call home.” And Nash said she has now become an expert handywoman as well. “Apparently I have got great painting skills because that is all I have done for the last couple of months,” she joked. “We are all just very grateful.”
Posted: Wednesday, May 21, 2014 6:00 am
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