Building a Future Rooted in Family
Building a Future Rooted in Family
A Recommendation That Changed Everything – Watch Their Story ➜
When Lauren and DeVaughn first heard about Habitat for Humanity’s Homebuyer Program, it wasn’t through an advertisement or a flyer. It was through someone they trusted: Lauren’s grandfather, Les.
For nearly three years, Les has volunteered with Habitat’s Senior Crew, spending a few days each week helping build homes alongside fellow volunteers. Through his experience, he saw firsthand how affordable homeownership creates stability and opportunity for local families. When he learned Habitat was accepting applications, he immediately thought of Lauren, DeVaughn, and their growing family.
“I encouraged them, and told them to get those papers in,” Les recalled with a smile.
At first, applying felt like a long shot for Lauren and DeVaughn. Homeownership seemed more like a dream than a possibility. But after completing the application process and receiving the call that they had been selected, excitement quickly spread throughout the family.
“We were both calling our families right away,” Lauren said. “We were really excited.”
Dreams Becoming Reality
For Lauren and DeVaughn, homeownership means more than owning a house. It means giving their children room to grow, a yard to play in, and the financial stability that comes with an affordable mortgage. After years of watching rent increase, they’re looking forward to having more opportunities to save for their family’s future.
For Les, watching his granddaughter’s family become Habitat homeowners has made his volunteer experience even more meaningful.
“It’s hard to get your first house,” he said. “It’s quite a big blessing.”
As construction continues, their story serves as a powerful reminder of what makes Habitat special. Volunteers, donors, and community members come together to help families build strength, stability, and self-reliance through affordable homeownership. In this case, that support started with a grandfather’s encouragement and is ending with a family’s dream becoming reality.