“This is what community looks like.” - Damone Presley
Community members turned out in force early one Saturday in December to dedicate a new addition to the neighborhood.
Results of a three-year impact study and discussions with Frogtown community organizations showed that while there were many positives happening in the community one area of concern was trash dumping in local neighborhoods. In response this year, Twin Cities Habitat worked with Frogtown partners to organize two major clean-up events. Most recently was Garage-a-palooza, which took place in October. This effort included landscaping an entire alley, removing trash and the painting of six garages in one day. Garage-a-palooza was hugely successful and utilized community leadership and involvement through the entire planning and implementing process.
Damone Presley of Frogtown Rondo Action Network spoke about the tight-knit community. As he looked around the packed room, Damone stressed that showing up, supporting each other, building neighborhoods, creating connections and providing families with safe places to be, are integral to community.
Homebuyers Abdullahi and Sahro told volunteers at the dedication that they were very grateful for all the support from volunteers, staff and donors. “We can now raise our children with happiness and freedom.” They praised the voluntary work done on their home and the Habitat mission saying “it is very special that you are willing to change the lives of families you’ve never met. Thank you. This is a great program with talented staff and wonderful sponsors. You have improved our lives...This is what community looks like.”Many echoed the message of gratitude for the volunteers that put their energy into this build.
Mikeya Griffin, a member of Thrivent Financial who was a major sponsor on this build, spoke about her experience working with Habitat. “I am so happy and so blessed to be part of this journey, your journey," she said to Abdullahi and Sahro. "I get to work with wonderful families, Thrivent members and volunteers. It really isn’t possible without you all.”
Sue Haigh, Twin Cities Habitat’s President & CEO, reflected on the importance of gathering community in action and celebration. “At a time when the world is so filled with hate, it is wonderful to be here, there is so much love in this room. My heart is full. Thank you.” She listed the countless volunteer groups from congregations all around the Twin Cities, including Interfaith Builders, Faith Builders, Gustavus Adolphus Church- Redeemer Lutheran, St. Stephen’s Coalition and Messiah Lutheran Church. “We couldn’t do any of this without our partners. Thank you!”
For more pictures from this home dedication, follow this link.
To learn more about Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity's work in Frogtown, click here.