Habitat for Humanity Erects Big Dreams in Durham, Fayetteville

DURHAM — Some big dreams are being realized in Durham and Fayetteville this week, all thanks to a partnership between WRAL-TV, Goldstons, and Habitat for Humanity. Volunteers are on a blitz-build schedule in both cities, getting a pair of homes ready for some needy families.

On Monday, the roof was raised in Fayetteville, as a small army of willing and eager volunteers showed up to help build house number 32 in Habitat Village in Durham. Volunteer Dwight Stewart told WRAL-TV5'sJim Paynehe's expecting between 18 and 20 volunteers every day this week.

There are many reasons people join forces with Habitat to pound nails and erect walls, but most say they just want to help out. For some, such as the Danielik family, it is a family affair. Daughter Lauren Danielik says she knew if she was going to see her parents while home for the holidays, she'd be building houses.

Lauren's father Jim Danielik says he even brought his in-laws along to help out while they visited from Houston.

The Fayetteville Habitat for Humanity has been building houses for 10 years. They hope to average 10 new homes each year. That means 10 families a year will get a chance for a new start.

Construction Supervisor Ed Avent says it all hinges on the volunteers.

Habitat has helped the neighborhood improve. There is a homeowners' association, a community watch. Crime is low, and civic pride is on the rise.

What may surprise you is that it's not all that difficult to qualify for a Habitat for Humanity home. Anyone who would like more information on qualifying for a Habitat home, or who would like to volunteer, can call the Habitat for Humanity chapter for the appropriate city.