Building Homes, Communities, and Hope: Mount Auburn Partners with Habitat for Humanity

For more than 16 years, Mount Auburn Church has partnered with Habitat for Humanity to help local families achieve the dream of homeownership. Through financial support, volunteer work teams, and providing meals for those serving at build sites, our church family has been part of Habitat's mission to put God's love into action by bringing people together to build homes, communities, and hope.

On Saturday, October 24, a team from Mount Auburn will continue that tradition by volunteering at the current Habitat for Humanity of Johnson County build site in Franklin.

This year's home is being built for Kelly, a single mother of two who has spent the past two years working diligently toward homeownership. Kelly has participated in monthly budgeting meetings, completed financial education and homeownership classes, and contributed more than 200 hours of sweat equity toward her future home.

Her journey is one of faith, perseverance, and hope.

Meet Kelly and Her Family

Kelly works as a medical assistant in the healthcare field, where she finds great fulfillment in caring for her patients. She's also a proud mother of two children.

Alexis, 20, is embracing her independence as a young woman exploring new opportunities through work and school. Kelly describes her as smart, creative, and hardworking.

Eli, 16, is focused on earning his high school diploma and enjoys sports, including track and cross country. Kelly describes him as incredibly smart, resilient, and considerate, and says he serves as an inspiration to her.

Throughout her journey, Kelly says her faith has been her source of strength.

"One thing I have discovered about my life is that I am upheld by my faith in God. He is truly the source of my strength; without my faith in God, I would not have been prepared to overcome the many challenges I’ve faced. I enjoy staying active through exercise and spending time with friends, family, and church community. I am grateful for my colleagues and coworkers; God has blessed me with a wonderful team.

Family consists of those who mourn with you and rejoice with you. I am most thankful to Jesus Christ, the author and finisher of my faith. He who rewrites our story."

A Journey of Growth and Faith

Kelly's experience with Habitat for Humanity has been about more than preparing to own a home. The program has also helped her develop financial skills, serve others, and grow personally.

When asked what the journey has been like so far, Kelly shared:

"The journey has been rewarding, providing me with practical skills in effective budget management and the memorable opportunity to help others build their houses. Throughout the program, I was challenged to step outside of my comfort zone, which ultimately taught me that while I can plan my own course, I must remain open to God’s purpose and direction.

I think this program is well worth considering, particularly for those who may prefer to stay out of the spotlight but are looking for meaningful growth. It requires you to be fully engaged. If you feel you are not yet ready for that, you may want to reconsider; however, be prepared to step out and embrace challenge and throw caution to the wind to see what God has in store for you."

What Home Means to Kelly

For Kelly and her children, having a safe, affordable home represents stability, comfort, and a place to build their future together.

When asked what home means to her, Kelly explained:

"While a house is constructed of physical materials, a home is defined by the environment we create within it. It serves as a shelter that protects us from the elements and remains a vital resource for our health, well-being, and survival. Ultimately, a home represents a place of comfort and a place of refuge to which we can always return."

And when asked what having a safe, affordable home will change for her family, she shared:

"Access to a safe and affordable home provides individuals who may otherwise be priced out of the market the opportunity to achieve homeownership. Habitat for Humanity is an invaluable resource for people from diverse backgrounds and unique circumstances, offering significant chances for long-term success."

Putting God's Love Into Action

Habitat for Humanity envisions a world where everyone has a decent place to live. At Mount Auburn, we're grateful for the opportunity to support that vision and walk alongside families like Kelly's.

As our volunteers prepare to serve in Franklin on October 24, we celebrate the hard work Kelly has already invested in her future and the many hands helping make her dream possible.

Please keep Kelly, Alexis, and Eli in your prayers as they continue this exciting journey toward homeownership. We're thankful for everyone at Mount Auburn who has supported Habitat for Humanity over the years through their time, talents, gifts, and prayers.