Airmen contribute 2,320 hours to Habitat for Humanity home

  • Published
  • By Michael Fletcher
  • Chief, 97th AMW Public Affairs
ALTUS AFB -- --  The fourth Habitat for Humanity house built in Altus, Okla., was turned over to it's new owners in a ceremony July 14.
Barbara Burleson, City of Altus planning director, presented Bobby and Kellie Robinson a certificate of occupancy.
"A house isn't a home without this document," Ms. Burleson said. "Now it's official."
About 200 friends and well wishers were present for the home's dedication, including several of the Altus Air Force Base Airmen who worked on the structure.
"Without Altus Air Force Base volunteers we would still be planning and talking about this home," Susan Newland, Director of Habitat for Humanity Altus Area, Inc., said.
"More than 2,320 hours of labor were put in by 255 Airmen, working weekends and evenings to make this house a reality for the Robinson family."
Col. Carlton D. Everhart II, the 97th Air Mobility Wing commander, Altus AFB, spoke words of praise and thanks for the Airmen and community volunteers who took the needed construction classes and orientations and spent their time making a difference.
The money to finance the home came from monthly luncheons, annual golf tournament, an auction of appliances and individual donations. Corporations donated equipment and supplies.
The 56th Airlift Squadron Booster Club donated $1,900 to Habitat For Humanity last Thursday.
"The squadron was heavily involved with Habitat For Humanity with four out of eight team leaders coming from the 56th," said Tech. Sgt. Steven Edmundson, 56th AS booster club treasurer. "We decided to donate funds remaining in our account to a charitable organization and Habitat For Humanity was our choice."