Painting for humanity

  • Published
  • By Airman Sondra M. Escutia
  • 49th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
HOLLOMAN AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. (ACCNS) --  Since July 1999, Otero County Habitat for Humanity has built 21 homes, changing the lives of many low-income families in the area, but it's the volunteers who make the builds possible, turning a few hours of one's time into a life-time contribution to someone in need.

On August 23, the Company Grade Officers Council of Holloman AFB did just that when they saw the perfect opportunity to jump in and help in the local area.

A team of six company grade officers met at a house in Alamogordo early that Saturday morning and completed two coats of paint in every room of the house.

The project took them four and half hours to complete, but those involved agree that it was worth their time.

"I truly enjoying giving back to those who need a little help," said 1st Lt. David Heichemer, CGOC president and volunteer. "The people from Habitat are so warm and friendly that it's nearly impossible to walk away without a smile."

Once the house is completely finished, Habitat for Humanity will sell it with no interest on the mortgage, making the payments affordable for a family in need, said Pam Clarke, the Habitat for Humanity volunteer coordinator.

"So often we forget how fortunate we are and how easy it is to give back to people who truly need it," said Lieutenant Heichemer. "Habitat is one of the most unselfish organizations I've ever encountered and to see people helping one another like that shows the better side of humanity."

This project was not the first for many members of the CGOC, whose goal is not only to promote leadership and professional development, but also to volunteer regularly and fundraise to support base events.

"Some CGO's are regulars [to Habitat] and others were first timers," said the lieutenant. "Now that we have an established relationship with the organization, we hope to increase the regulars and first timers each time we participate."

According to Ms. Clarke, members of Team Holloman have always been willing to lend a helping-hand.

"Holloman has been a big support from the beginning and has provided volunteers for construction on all of our homes," said Ms. Clarke. "The biggest attribute Holloman has provided is their team spirit."

Lieutenant Heichemer hopes that team spirit will only increase, and more people will participate in functions like this one.