Habitat Build connects campus with community

Isaac Cowles thought he knew how to use a hammer until he volunteered for the annual UNC Charlotte Habitat for Humanity Homecoming Build. He is among the faculty, staff and students who jump-started construction for a new home at a site near campus, specifically at the corner of University City Boulevard and John Kirk Drive, during Homecoming Week.

“It was humbling when I first came out here; the first board I put in was wrong, and I had to redo it immediately,” said Cowles, associate marketing director, Student Affairs.

Volunteers from across campus helped construct the framework for the 1,100-square-foot, three-bedroom, one-and-a-half bathroom house over a two-week period. They finished about 50 percent of the work required to complete the house before it is moved to its permanent location. The family designated as the home’s new owners could move in as soon as early 2020.

UNC Charlotte’s Leadership & Community Engagement Office, Division of Student Affairs, organized the build, a Homecoming tradition since 2013. The Habitat Campus Chapter partnered with UNC Charlotte Alumni and local businesses to raise funds for the home. These efforts brought in over $88,000 in donations.

Groups of employees and students, including from Facilities Management and the UNC Charlotte softball team, dedicated numerous hours to build the house. The softball team volunteered over a two-day period. A group of alumni, several of whom participated in Collegiate Challenge trips as students, volunteered as well.

John Elliot, who attended UNC Charlotte, is a site supervisor with Habitat for Humanity Charlotte. He said it was spring break Collegiate Challenge trips that got him interested in Habitat. He’s been with Habitat Charlotte professionally for three years.

“This build is special to me because it’s what got me hooked,” Elliot said while on site at the latest build.

Participating employees were grateful for the 24 hours of community service leave, a state benefit that UNC Charlotte leaders encourage faculty and staff to use.

“This gives me an opportunity to do something with campus time,” said Anne Bracken, office manager, Counseling Department, Cato College of Education.

Brian Holcomb, assistant director for trips, Venture Outdoor Leadership, volunteered because he wanted to be a part of something positive. Although he’s volunteered in the past for Habitat, this was his first campus build.

“I’m happy that we’ve been productive and working really efficiently,” he said.