Our 49th and 50th Homes

Terry Foster flanked by lay pastor Bob Nelson and his wife Maggi
Picture by Patrick Hinely

Jodie Wilhelm and son Ryan
Picture by Patrick Hinely

On Sunday, June 26, Habitat volunteers, supporters and homeowners Jodie Wilhelm and Terry Foster gathered to celebrate the dedication of Rockbridge Area Habitat's 49th and 50th homes. Alice Waddell, co-chair of the Family Partnership Committee (FPC) guided the ceremony, and lay pastor Bob Nelson blessed the two families and their new homes. Jodie and Terry, who each put 350 hours of work into building her new home, radiated pride and joy. Both stood to thank Habitat's volunteers and staff, and their friends and families for their help and support. Alice gave a bible to Terry and one to Jodie. Then she handed each the key to her new home.

Jodie’s and Terry’s homes stand side-by-side at the top of a hill just outside of the City of Lexington, VA. Fields of meadow grass surround the homes, and stunning mountains views are in every direction. These are the first of a collection of Habitat homes that will be built in the mixed-income neighborhood of Greenhouse Village.

Jodie’s home is light gray with maroon shutters. A front porch lends interest to the simple design. A wheelchair ramp, built to accommodate Jodie’s mother, hugs one side of the house. Inside, laminate flooring shines and fresh paint glows on every wall. Jodie and her son Ryan will move into their new three-bedroom, one-bath home in a few days.

Jodie's Home

Students enrolled in Kurt Bennett’s building and trades program at Rockbridge County High School constructed Terry’s home. The students gain valuable construction skills by building one Habitat home a year.

After the RCHS students have finished their work on a Habitat home, the home is moved from the school to its permanent location. Then Habitat staff and volunteers add the finishing touches. Terry’s home will be ready for her to move into in about four more weeks.

Terry’s home is tan with royal blue shutters. She has both a front porch and a small back porch. The interior layout is open and flowing, making the small home seem spacious. The plants in Terry's and Jodie's yards were purchased and planted by our volunteer master gardener, Heather Marion. Both homes have a young tree in the front yard and several attractive bushes.

Student volunteers hold a "50" sign on the porch of Terry's home

The new homes at the top of the hill are safe, decent, and affordable. We wish that Terry and Jodie, and Jodie’s son Ryan, will be happy in their new homes for many, many years to come!

Thank you for these houses built here on earth, by your children, for your children in love and hope and joy.

-From the Litany of Dedication, read during Habitat dedication ceremonies.