ABOVE: Mark Whaling cuts the ribbon for what is the first house he will ever own; built by Habitat for Humanity at 1416 Sherman.
It was last August that Habitat for Humanity in Danville broke ground for what would be their first “complete home built from scratch” in ten years. Property at 1416 Sherman had been donated to Habitat, with the understanding that a new home would be built for a Veteran.
And on Friday (May 22nd) afternoon, U.S. Army Veteran Mark Whaling cut the ribbon and officially moved in. But prior to cutting the ribbon, Whaling handed out some commemorative coins to top volunteer workers on the home; which he explained to CIMG while inside the home later.
AUDIO: They’re Challenge Coins that Veterans, people in the military, receive on completing tour; or a sign of appreciation and gratitude. People don’t understand, this is what true Danville is about. This is the heart and soul of Danville.
Mayor Rickey Williams, Jr stated he’s grateful to Habitat for Humanity and all the voluntees for their role in getting some nice new homes built in Danville.
AUDIO: We have ten houses that are under construction or have been constructed recently. That’s almost as many as we’ve had in the last ten or so years combined. So, we’re proud of all the great work that Habitat, and all of the volunteers, and all the donors do to make this possible. It makes us hometown proud for sure.
(1st Picture) Mark Whaling shakes hands with longtime Habitat volunteer Mike Cundiff. (2nd Picture) Pastor Dave Garver offers opening prayer (Habitat executive director Ryan Campbell at far right). (3rd Picture) Whaling greets Danville’s Mayor Rickey Williams, Jr.
Habitat for Humanity Executive Director Ryan Campbell says the businesses and volunteers that helped make this possible deserve all the credit.
AUDIO: The many signs that are located here along the side of the driveway aren’t even half of the individuals that volunteered on this project. Whether it was donating their time as far as labor; working on the house, swinging the hammer; or materials. We’re really looking forward to everybody’s help on the next build, and we’re always looking for more volunteers.
That “next build” for Habitat for Humanity of Danville will be at 602 North Walnut, at Walnut and Davis, right near the Habitat headquarters. It’s scheduled to break ground in June or July.
