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MCAS Cherry Point News

 

Photo Information

Marine and Sailor volunteers from the Cherry Point Single Marine Program install windows, insulation and siding Saturday on a Habitat for Humanity project in New Bern.

Photo by Pfc. Grace L. Waladkewics

SMP hammers away for Habitat for Humanity

28 Aug 2013 | Pfc. Grace L. Waladkewics Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point

Marines and Sailors with the Single Marine Program teamed up with Habitat for Humanity volunteers Saturday to build a house they have been hammering away on for months.

This is the eighth house Single Marine Program members have helped build since 2011.

Volunteers were involved with framing, dry wall installation, flooring, painting and landscaping.

“The opportunity to be involved in this is absolutely wonderful,” said Jen L. Krivohlavy, the Single Marine Program coordinator for Cherry Point. “It pushes the Marines and Sailors outside their comfort zone and allows them to give back to the community while learning lifelong skills.”

Habitat for Humanity is a nonprofit organization founded in 1976. It has helped build and repair more than 600,000 homes worldwide. Its goal is to provide low-income families with simple, decent and affordable homes.

Marines and Sailors with the Single Marine Program have been regular volunteers with the organization’s projects in the local area.

“The Marines and Sailors are truly involved from beginning to end,” said Krivohlavy. “From the time the foundation is poured to the time the landscaping is finished, the Single Marine Program volunteers are involved.”

Suzanne Stewart, the resource coordinator for Habitat for Humanity of Craven County, said the community is especially thankful for all the work the Single Marine Program does.

“We are always amazed by the willingness and enthusiasm of the people in our community to help Habitat for Humanity families in need,” said Stewart. “Our relationship with volunteers often goes beyond the work relationship as they become part of our Habitat family.”

Adequate housing provides more than just a roof over someone’s head, said Stewart. It provides them with stability, dignity, pride, health and security.

“Families are always excited about becoming homeowners,” said Stewart. “They are always ready and willing to be a part of building their home.”

Once each house is complete, the Marines and Sailors who assisted with the building process are invited to the home dedication ceremony, said Krivohlavy. Families receiving the homes get to meet those who helped and express their appreciation for the hours of hard work.

With organizations like Habitat for Humanity allowing servicemembers to volunteer their time in the community, the solid foundation that the military has already set in place becomes stronger, said Krivohlavy.

For more information about the Single Marine Program and how to volunteer, call 466-3027.


Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point