Habitat to 'Raise the Wall' on 3 new homes

FINDLAY — Habitat for Humanity of Findlay/Hancock County will officially kick off its Spring Build with a Raise the Wall ceremony from 5:30–6:30 p.m. on March 31, in the the Krystal Ridge Addition, 1700 block of Bishop Lane. The event, which is open to the public, will mark the beginning of construction on three new homes for the Kylie Justice (Home #68), Maribeth Karsenay (Home #69), and Melissa Sparks (Home #70) families. Raise the Wall event symbolizes a turning point for these families as they lift the first walls of homes they will help build alongside volunteers during the coming weeks. These homes are part of Habitat's continued effort to expand affordable homeownership opportunities within the Krystal Ridge neighborhood. "Every Habitat home begins with a moment like this," said Kelly Croy, Habitat Board President. "When those first walls go up, it represents hope, hard work, and the support of an entire community coming together to help a family build a brighter future." The three partner families each bring stories of resilience and hope. Justice (Home #68), a mother of two sons, overcame significant health challenges after COVID neuropathy left her temporarily paralyzed. After years of determination and recovery, she regained her independence and is now partnering with Habitat to build a stable home for her family. Karsenay (Home #69) and her young son Luca are beginning a new chapter after leaving an unsafe domestic situation, and through Habitat's program and financial coaching she is working toward the dream of providing a safe, permanent place to call home. (Maribeth and Luca's names are an alias to protect their identities.) Sparks (Home #70) has been raising her children and nephew in a mobile home with ongoing structural safety concerns and is partnering with Habitat to build a safe, stable environment where her family can grow and thrive. Volunteers are invited to help construct these homes. No prior experience is necessary, and all tools and instruction are provided. Those interested in volunteering can sign up at habitatfindlay.org or call 419-429-1400 ext. 5.