Home Dedication: Basketball Team Supports Coach

The house filled with enthusiastic supporters for new homeowner and coach, LaVera. "It was an exciting experience. There was a lot of hard work involved, physical hard work. Matthias would come and help as well," LaVera said.  It was obvious that LaVera was loved by many, especially by her basketball team which was nicely represented at the dedication.“I want to thank Twin Cities Habitat, my mom, my boss, and the girls.”

LaVera's Basketball Team                                                     LaVera and her son, Matthias 

Site Supervisor Dave Madzo reflected on his time spent with LaVera on site: “When I first met LaVera… I knew who the boss would be here.” LaVera let out a laugh. Dave talked about the physical work that LaVera did, sanding walls and laying flooring. “This neighborhood to me is really special. You have a community of Habitat here. I love what I do and I love the people I build for.”

LaVera worked with Habitat financial coach, Adade Amenounve, to prepare for this exciting step. Adade was thrilled to see LaVera celebrating in her new home, “My dream was to have her dream be accomplished. LaVera chose hope over fear. She’s been a great financial participant and now Habitat partner.”

Throughout the whole program, there would be cheers and applause for LaVera and Matthias. “I’ve never had a full basketball team at a dedication”, said Sue Haigh, Twin Cities Habitat President. “This is really what love looks like. People being generous. It is a special day, but it's about you and your future. Home is all about that safe and special place.”

The major sponsor of the home was Ryan Companies. Jeff Smith, Ryan Companies National President and Twin Cities Habitat board member, presented the Golden Rule and read the Litany: “Thanks for having us at your home tonight. This is the most energetic one I’ve been to!” Jeff mentioned that in times of divide and frustration, building and volunteering is what brings people together. “We’ve got more out of this build than we put into it.”

We wish all the best to the family as they begin this exciting journey!