For Yalonda, becoming a homeowner means far more than just having a place to call her own—it signifies a life-changing opportunity for her and her family. Born and raised in Dayton, Yalonda has spent the past 50 years deeply rooted in her community, embracing its values and contributing to its well-being. Her passion for helping others, both personally and professionally, makes her the perfect partner for this year’s Flyer Nation Build through Habitat for Humanity of Greater Dayton.

As a State Tested Nursing Assistant (STNA) for 25 years, Yalonda has dedicated her career to caring for others. Her compassion and commitment shine through in her work, and that same dedication has carried over into her Dayton Habitat journey. When she first applied for Habitat’s homeownership program, she realized she wasn’t quite ready and took time to better prepare herself. Now, she is fully equipped to embrace this opportunity, proving her resilience and determination.

One of the most rewarding aspects of the Dayton Habitat program has been the required sweat equity hours. Working alongside other partner families and volunteers, Yalonda has gained hands-on experience in home construction—skills she never imagined she would learn. From hanging drywall to installing cabinets, she now feels confident in her ability to maintain and repair her new home. More than just learning new skills, she has also built lasting relationships and found support within the Dayton Habitat community.

Habitat for Humanity of Greater Dayton’s program also requires all partner families to complete at least 60 hours of homeownership courses. These classes prepare families for the responsibilities of owning a home, covering topics such as budgeting, maintenance, and financial literacy. For Yalonda, the most valuable lesson was money management—learning to prioritize needs over wants. This knowledge has not only empowered her to become a more responsible homeowner but also provided her with tools she can pass on to her six children, three of whom still live at home.

Currently, Yalonda and her children live in a home that lacks basic necessities, including a shower, air conditioning, and sufficient space. Their new home, built through the Flyer Nation Build, will provide them with a safe, comfortable environment where they can thrive. Having a stable home will allow Yalonda to continue pursuing her education and fulfill her dream of becoming a nurse. Meanwhile, her children will have the space and resources they need to explore their interests and work toward their own aspirations, like Christian leadership, video games, or hair design.

This new chapter is a testament to Yalonda’s unwavering determination and strength. Her journey to homeownership has not been easy, but her perseverance and commitment to improving her family’s future have made it all worthwhile. Through the support of Habitat for Humanity of Greater Dayton and the Flyer Nation Build, Yalonda and her family are stepping into a brighter future—one built on a foundation of hope, hard work, and community.

You can learn more about the Flyer Nation Build at DaytonHabitat.Org/FlyerNation today!