Recently, our Chief Operation Officer, Rudy Llerena was invited to join a local cause that required raising more than just funds. He, along with over 70 other local business leaders, was asked to raise walls in a brand new Habitat for Humanity house.
Habitat for Humanity has helped almost 3.5 million people around the globe either build or improve upon an affordable place that they can call home. With a focus on a "hand up" instead of a "hand out," Habitat recipients participate in charitable efforts for not only their own homes but also the homes of others.
A few weeks ago, Rudy joined fellow C-level executives for Habitat for Humanity of South Palm Beach County's inaugural CEO Build. They all worked together to construct a home for a hard-working family in need of some help. These leaders donned hard hats, lifted hammers, painted walls, and raised over $175,000 in funds for construction materials. They built alongside the future owner, Gevala Antonine, who committed to 500 hours of additional service in order to purchase this home with a zero-interest mortgage.
Gevala is a dynamic and hard-working woman who used to be an elementary school teacher before moving to the U.S. with her family. Sadly, her husband passed at an early age, and Gevala became the sole provider for her four children. She has since focused on being a positive influence and supporting each of her children's academic endeavors. If you've ever had a bite to eat at Boston's on the Beach in Delray, you've probably had some of Gevala's cooking as she's been a longtime employee there.
As Habitat explains, the CEO build and other builds create "a safe, decent and affordable home for a local, hard-working, low-income family." These efforts help to reinforce that community growth starts with families having a stable home. The builds help break the poverty cycle one family at a time and keep the contribution going with Habitat's unique "sweat-equity" commitment.
We are proud of Rudy's efforts and also incredibly thankful to our vendors that generously donated to the cause. As extra special thanks to ProtectoWrap, who donated $2,500 to this build. All of this will help a dedicated family persevere and help many others down the road.
