It has been a long journey for U.S. Navy veteran Len. From the decks of the USS Independence and exposure to Agent Orange in Vietnam, to years of health struggles and financial setbacks in California, the family is no stranger to being resilient. Eight years ago, Len and his wife, Alicia, moved to Huber Heights, searching for a lower cost of living and a dream home.
On June 13, that dream became a reality when the couple purchased and received the keys to a brand-new Habitat home in Vandalia. The home was built through Habitat for Humanity of Greater Dayton’s zero-interest homeownership program and supported by the local military and Vandalia communities. “Thank you from the bottom of my heart; I am home,” Len said at the dedication ceremony.
The family had tried for years to purchase a home, but they were consistently outbid, like many during the COVID housing market. Then they found Dayton Habitat. Their home was made possible through the Veterans Build program, a Dayton Habitat program that unites the military community and its supporters to sponsor, fund, and construct homes for deserving veterans. A dedicated committee, backed by Habitat’s full support, spearheaded the project, showing the impact of partnership in action. “This is so much bigger than a new home; it is a new chapter for this family,” said Andrea Kunk, President of Peerless Technologies and Veterans Build Chair. Dayton Habitat’s Development Director, Dave Mauch, echoed that sentiment. “As I watch this come together, all I can think about is how great things happen when partners unite behind a purpose. Habitat is about partnership, and the number one partner is always the family. We don’t give away houses; our families buy them, and they put in the work to earn them.”
Len and Alicia are determined to pay it forward. “This journey has been totally unbelievable,” Len said. “Most importantly, Habitat and the countless Veterans Build supporters gave us this opportunity. Now we want to give back and do positive things for this community.”
He also spoke directly to the struggles of his fellow veterans, “Our veterans need help. Too many are out in the streets without homes. Let this be a start to helping more veterans like me.” That call was answered immediately. PNC Bank presented a $6,000 donation at the dedication and pledged another $3,000 to support this and future Veterans Build homes.
For Alicia, the day felt like more than a dedication. “It felt like a graduation,” she said. “I want to thank God; He is faithful to do what He says He will do. So many people helped us, even some we never met. Bless you all. You were the open door we had been waiting for.” Len agreed, adding, “I never gave up the faith. Knowing that everyone in the program was behind us gave us confidence. God told me to keep going, and He showed up.”
Stories like Len’s remind us that a home is more than a roof; it’s a foundation for hope and stability. To join Dayton Habitat’s mission as a donor, volunteer, or homeowner, visit daytonhabitat.org or call 937-586-0860.
