25 days, 25 stories: Transforming a Neighborhood

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.
 

Transforming a Neighborhood

A Builders Blitz Story

The Builder’s Blitz started with the usual excitement mixed with anticipation. The builders who will be participating meet to discuss the start-up strategy and exchange the usual good natured challenges to each other.

Within a short time we got to meet our families. The project takes on a personal tone now that we know the people who will be impacted by the project that we are about to undertake. As we visit the actual construction site, we focus on the details of the build as well as the neighbors who will be affected by our presence during a rather hectic week. One neighbor approached me as we looked the area over. He had lived in his home for over 50 years and his home and yard showed his pride in his neighborhood. As I started to reassure him that we would do what we could to keep the disruptions to a minimum, he stopped me to tell me that he didn’t care how long it took or how much noise we made, he looked forward to seeing the beautiful new homes that we were about to add to his neighborhood. I found the same sentiment from all of the neighbors that I had the good fortune to meet.

On the morning of the first day of the Builder’s Blitz, I had a little time to look over the area while waiting for the sun to rise. In just a few hours, a dramatic change would be underway, but for now, it was quiet. As the sun rose, the framing crew arrived and the area came to life. The entire block was a flurry of activity. More and more of the neighbors came out to see what was going on. Everyone shared excitement for what was about to happen and amazement at the speed at which the transformation was taking place. It was like a small town atmosphere with people standing in their yards and in the street to just visit and watch.

By noon of that first day, the major portion of 4 homes stood where just foundations had been just hours before. The surprise of the neighbors was only exceeded by the joy of our families. Before each of the families stood an important part of their futures. Their smiles and laughter were just what all of us needed to keep up this amazing fast pace. We even had some of the neighbors watching and making notes of how things were done so that they could do things to their own homes. We were transforming an entire neighborhood.

In just 5 days we managed to complete some of the most beautiful new homes complete with garden plots in the back yards. We made dreams become reality and met and made friends with people who we had never met before. As the construction activities came to a close, a peace and sense of home settled in on the neighborhood. We had been lucky enough to be asked to do what each of us does well and our reward was far greater than the usual payment. We had been part of an effort that changed a group of under-utilized lots into a place where dreams come true and hope is born. For this, every one of us gained the satisfaction of leaving our legacy for others to use to create their own legacies.

Mick O’Brien
HearthStone Homes
Habitat Omaha 2009 Home Builders Blitz Participant

 

 
Photos from the 2009 Habitat Omaha Builders Blitz

 

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