By By Kerry Whipple Bean – publisher
A record number of volunteers registered to work on the newest home being built by the Greater Brewton Habitat for Humanity.
Qualamina Drakeford, the owner of the under-construction home, was on site with hammer in hand as the project got under way Saturday morning.
The 165 registered workers were busy nailing, painting and cutting materials needed to build the three bedroom, two bath home.
Alecia Glaize, Habitat's executive director, said the outpouring of volunteers was a surprise for the group.
Glaize said work will continue on the house into Monday with more work planned for next weekend.
This Habitat project is called “Going Green,” referring to the energy-saving and environmentally friendly aspects of the building materials. When finished, the house will be inspected and certified as an Energy Star home, which means it meets criteria for energy efficiency.
Materials such as Hardyplank siding, insulation made from recycled newspaper and stained concrete floors will help keep the home energy efficient.
Drakeford said the completion of the project hinges on a lot of things, but she is excited about the dedication.
Drakeford is familiar with other projects since she has put in more than 100 hours of sweat equity leading up to the building of her home.
Among the volunteers on hand Saturday were 46 students in the Upward Bound program at Jefferson Davis Community College.
Tim Salter, director of the Upward Bound program, said students responded well to the request for help.
Salter said the community service performed by the students is just part of the program's goals.
Glaize said in addition to the Upward Bound students, other JDCC students were also participating in the build.
In addition to work today and Monday, the build will continue Saturday, Sept. 21, beginning at 7 a.m., Glaize said.
To volunteer for any Habitat project, or to schedule a specivic work tme, contact the office at 867-0095 or stop by the office at 212 Belleville Ave.