Volunteers build: a 9/11 remembrance

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Nicholas Benroth
  • 23rd Wing Public Affairs
MOODY AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. --  Nearly 600 members from Moody Air Force Base, Ga. and the surrounding community spent a week helping a local area family in need through Habitat for Humanity.

Project Freedom Build's goal was to build a home from Sept. 11 to Sept. 18. The project was started in memory of those who lost their lives during the events that took place Sept. 11, 2010 and those currently still serving today.

"I have been a long supporter of Habitat for Humanity and the work they do here, "said Col. Mark Ruse, 23rd Mission Support Group commander. "It's amazing to have the support out there and at the same time help the community since they give us so much."

The volunteers dedicated more than 2,550 hours into the build and saved more than $51,000 in construction costs.

"We do everything that does not require a license," said Christine Nash, Habitat for Humanity coordinator. "We have subcontractors who come out and do the electric, plumbing and air conditioning, but everything else is completed by our volunteers."

During the weeklong build, members helped with everything from putting up walls, installing windows and landscaping.

"We are hoping to hold the Freedom Build project annually," Mrs. Nash said. "With the turnout this week, we look forward to holding it next year."

Although project Freedom Build was the first of its kind, Habitat for Humanity has other projects going on almost every week in an effort to help families who are in need.

"Through these projects, we not only hope to provide to those who need a decent, safe and affordable home," Colonel Ruse said. "It's also a time to remember those who have fought for the freedom and security that we have today."

Habitat for Humanity is a non-profit organization that partners with volunteers from all backgrounds, races and religions to build houses for families in need.

Since its creation in 1976, the organization has built more than 350,000 houses, giving shelter to more than 1.75 million people.