Mission Springs
Volunteer days open!
Meet our future homeowners!
Jaclyn has a renewed sense of hope, knowing that homeownership is in her future. Being approved to purchase a Habitat home will provide the security of not being vulnerable to the decisions of landlords and struggling to find an affordable home that would be accessible. "I was most interested in the Habitat program because it provides the opportunity for me to be able to provide a financially secure future for myself by putting my money towards ownership rather than wasting it on rent."
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Jackie was injured in an accident in 2009 when a drunk driver hit the vehicle that she, her boyfriend at the time, and brother and sister-in-law were in. "Thankfully, I was the only one who was injured. After the accident, I moved back to Washington to be closer to my family. But I really missed Colorado and kept looking for an opportunity to move back. I just love the sunshine and being outside. While I was researching, I found the "Greeley Center for Independence". This organization helps individuals with varying abilities be able to live on their own."
"Having a house with a yard will be amazing. I am so excited about it. I am in the final process of obtaining a service dog. The dogs are matched to each person's specific care needs. Having a dog will provide me with a bit more capabilities. For example, he or she can help me if I drop something, open certain doors, and provide a greater sense of security especially when I am out rolling around like at the grocery store. Not to mention, improve my emotional state of being with the companionship." Jackie's "kitty cat" Sully will also be getting a buddy.
"From the time of my injury, I never dreamed of having a home. I am so happy! I can't wait to get out of the rental system, have something that is mine and to be able to have even more independence. This will provide me a home that truly works for me. To have the type of shower I need will help me as well as my caregiver. It will make life easier."
- Jackie, future Habitat homeowner
Thomas became a single father to his two boys in 1994. He worked as a glazier for a local glass company installing windows, showers, and mirrors. But even as a hard-working and determined dad, Thomas was not able to save enough to become a homeowner. Thomas coincidentally installed glass in several Habitat homes in Fort Collins in the 1990s. That is when he first learned about Habitat. He did look into applying to be a homeowner at that time, but the application process was not open.
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In 2007 Thomas suffered a debilitating rollover car accident leaving him paralyzed from the chest down. "It has been a long journey of recovery. Experiencing an event like that truly shows you what you are made of. You have to learn to adapt or give up and quit. And that word (quit) is NOT in my vocabulary." After years of physical therapy along with emotional and spiritual growth, Thomas feels as though he has overcome this obstacle. "I finally came to the realization of why... I have been given a second chance. This journey brought me back to a much closer walk with the Lord. I became a Christian when I was 15 years old, but I headed in the wrong direction. Now, I am on a good path."
After losing mobility in both his arms and legs and being confined to a wheelchair, Thomas did not feel hopeful about his housing situation. "I had pretty much written off ever owning a home. For this to come true, I'm flabbergasted.
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Currently, Thomas rents an apartment where his entry and exit are through an alley. He has concern for his caregiver when they come in the morning or leave late in the evening.
"My sons are grown now and I even have a grandson! I look forward to having a home to welcome them for visits."
"Owning my own home will be a life-changer for me. I won't have to continue to search for places to live that will be accessible. It is impossible to find a place to rent that will work for my situation. For example, having a shower that I can actually use will be incredible. With homeownership comes a big sense of pride. I will be able to take care of the place the way I want, not as the landlord sees fit. Also, I can't wait for my dog Ruby to have a yard to run and play in!" - Thomas, future Habitat homeowner