The U of L chapter of Habitat for Humanity, an organization geared towards addressing poverty around the city of Louisville, will be hosting the Raise the Roof event September 17-19.
Quite possibly the group’s largest project yet, this milestone will serve as the first student-funded Habitat for Humanity house to be built in Louisville. All money was raised by U of L students, with the funds being directed towards the completion of the new house. There is a large amount of excitement around the setup, with students and staff alike looking to contribute.
“This project has been a culmination of three years of work. It would not have happened if it were not for the amazing campus chapter members and the support of the university,” said Stephanie Dooper, a senior and president of the Habitat chapter at U of L. Dooper, the mastermind behind the program, was responsible for the idea of student fundraising. Having accumulated the goal of $44,000 of student money needed for the house, the chapter looks to get started as soon as possible.
Lisa Echsner, Habitat for Humanity director of marketing and development in Louisville, is also extremely optimistic for the future of the chapter.
“Habitat for Humanity of Metro Louisville has worked with the students at UofL for many years. We are thrilled to see this dream come to fruition, both for the hard-working chapter members and for our homeowner,” says Echsner.
Habitat for Humanity of Metro Louisville, established in 1985, has built or remodeled over 445 houses in the city. Serving as an incredibly well-functioning nonprofit around the country, there are countless ways to get involved with the organization, whether that be through donations, home restoration or volunteering hands on.
U of L President James Ramsey has also expressed his respect for the chapter: “U of L students have a long tradition of service to the community, and we are proud of their dedication and hard work to make this house a reality. These great students recognize that home ownership is an important step toward a brighter future and that giving back is as much a part of their education as going to class.”
The student-funded house will be built in the Portland neighborhood of Louisville. A final date for completion has not been selected.
The U of L Habitat chapter has also received a $20,000 matching grant from Texas Roadhouse and is continuing to raise money. To donate, visit https://www.crowdrise.com/uoflhabitat.
