All good things must come to an end

July 21, 2007

By Rachel Parsons
Kentucky Baptist Fellowship/Mountain Hope Intern

After a week full of hard work, fellowship, and, yes, a little chaos, the second annual McCreary County Extreme Build has come to an end. A dedication ceremony was held today and Richard, Ricky, Bradley, Courtney, Skye, and Matthew Garland became the official residents of 20 Godby Trail. Lead team members Charlie Gatton, Rhonda Abbott Blevins, Conway Stone, John Lepper, and Donna Thrush each had a few moments to share what Extreme Build has meant to them and welcome the Garlands to their new home. Holly Hopkins, a represetative from Senator Jim Bunning’s office was also present and shared a few words on the senator’s behalf.

Richard was also given an opportunity to share his feelings about the whole experience, which has been overwhelming for him and the children. Humbly, and a little tearfully, he thanked the volunteers for donating their time to the project and for their willingness to help the family. Although it sounds cliche, it really re-emphasized something that most of the volunteers already knew; all the hard work and long hours were well worth it because of how much this house will mean for the family. Donna Thrush, Executive Director of the McCreary County Community Housing Development Corporation, has often pointed out the power that housing has to change lives and bring healing. While owning a house will certainly not make life perfect for the Garlands or keep them from facing difficulties and challenges in life, it will give them a sense of security that comes from being able to call some place home. Extreme Build marks a new beginning for the Garland family and, hopefully, life at 20 Godby Trail will be full of blessings and God’s love.