Residents pitch in with housing help

Few students reside in a house infested with rats. And not too many worry about living in one bedroom with six people. But that doesn't mean they aren't concerned about those who might.\nWith the goal of eliminating poverty housing, the Bloomington community and IU students involved with Habitat for Humanity are determined to remove Monroe County residents from substandard living conditions.\nAccording to Habitat for Humanity's Web site, the organization has built 100,000 houses in more than 60 countries since 1976. There are 1,517 active Habitat affiliates in the United States. Bloomington currently has two branches, Habitat for Humanity of Monroe County and IU Habitat. \nIU Habitat financially sponsored and provided volunteers to build three homes in Bloomington last year.\n"The IU Habitat works in partnership (with Monroe County Habitat) by providing volunteers and fund raising," said Kerry Thompson Pattillo, executive director of Habitat for Humanity of Monroe County. \nThe Monroe County chapter was organized in 1988 with the goal of building simple and affordable homes for those in need and has built 47 homes in Monroe County. \n"By providing 130 people with safe, decent shelter for over 15 years we have given homeowners the tools to be a successful citizen," Thompson Pattillo said.\nIU Habitat for Humanity Special Events Coordinator senior Leslie Kavanaugh said volunteering for Habitat gives volunteers the chance to have a positive effect on Bloomington.\n"You get a chance to see first-hand how your efforts make a difference," Kavanaugh said.\nVolunteers are responsible for the construction, rehabilitation and maintenance of the homes.\nHabitat homes are sold at no profit, but homeowners are required to invest hundreds of hours to the project. \n"The best thing is actually meeting the future homeowner," worksite coordinator senior Duanne Brunner said. "Having them thank you is one of the most humbling experiences."\nFrom landscaping, hanging drywall, painting and roofing, Habitat for Humanity offers a variety of activities.\n"Habitat allows for large numbers of people to devote their time and talents at whatever level suits their need," said IU Habitat for Humanity co-president senior Kate Rosswurm.\nVolunteers work Saturday mornings, afternoons or the entire day to help build a home. \n"I have been given the chance to meet extraordinary people," Kavanaugh said. "I have so much admiration for the people involved in Habitat because they are dedicated to helping others."\n-- Contact staff writer Jessica Levco at jlevco@indiana.edu.