25 days, 25 stories: The Inspiration

Each day from October 5 to October 29, 2009 we will be posting a new story in celebration of Habitat for Humanity of Omaha’s 25th anniversary. These stories have come to us from people who have been involved with Habitat Omaha in a variety of ways at some point in the past 25 years. We hope that you enjoy these reflections, some old and some new, about Habitat Omaha and that they inspire or renew the spirit of service in you. If you have a story of your own that you would like to share please send it to us at buildinghope.omaha@gmail.com.

 

The Inspiration

Chuck and I started our partnership with Habitat for Humanity of Omaha in 1994 as members of the Faithful Builders Coalition. Our first build was a blitz and our partner was Carroll Grimes. The sole of Chuck’s shoe came off when he was working on Carroll’s roof. When she came to speak at Holy Cross Lutheran and every time we’ve seen her since, Carroll mentions that Chuck gave his “sole” for her. Carroll was an outstanding partner. She was always the first person to arrive in the morning and the last one to leave at night. Carroll made our first Habitat experience so inspiring that we have continued for 15 years.

There have been several times in my Habitat years that I have been reminded that God is the “Master Builder.” There was a morning snack during Blitz Build 1994 that was not covered. For some reason I had to go to Project Hope. The deacon from Holy Family just happened to be there delivering food that he had picked up from area grocery stores. I left there with enough food to feed the volunteers and didn’t have to go home and bake after being at the work site all day. In the early years I used to worry about reaching our financial goal. When donors would happen to donate exactly the amount we were short or come up with creative ways to generate money, I was reminded that this is God’s project and that God will provide for His people in need. So many of the partner families have a very deep faith. They are an inspiration to keep on working to help God’s people in need.

We have met the most amazing people through Habitat for Humanity. Habitat has become a very big part of our lives. We love all the people we’ve met and worked with; the staff, committees, Faithful Builders, Friends and family partners. Habitat is an exciting and wonderful organization. We are blessed to be a part of it.

Chuck and Danna Plummer

 

 

Visit the new habitatomaha.org to learn more about Habitat for Humanity of Omaha, find out about volunteer opportunities and to donate now.