Wall raising ceremony marks the start of Bridge Builder construction bringing together local groups to foster communication, collaboration and community
Greenville, S.C. (June 25, 2019) – The Habitat for Humanity wall raising ceremony for the Greggs Family marked the official start of the non-profit organization’s Bridge Builder series, a set of home construction projects designed to foster greater connection, cooperation and goodwill among distinct groups in our local community. The first build in the series pairs members of the African American community with members of the Greenville Police Department to foster greater trust and respect among these groups.
The Bridge Builder Series is the result of a discussion between Habitat for Humanity of Greenville CEO Monroe Free and Christ Church Episcopal Rector Harrison McLeod, on the critical role the faith community and non-profits can play in uniting people through a common and noble purpose, thereby building bridges of trust and bonds of friendship among seemingly distinct groups.
Long Branch Baptist Church and Greater Mt. Calvary Baptist Church committed volunteers and additional support for the build. They will work alongside Greenville police officers, community members and volunteers from Christ Church Episcopal to change the life of a hardworking area family.
“We feel blessed, eager and excited to join our efforts with Habitat for Humanity, Long Branch Baptist Church, Mount Calvary Baptist Church and our dedicated Police Department to raise this wall, this family and this community,” says Christ Church Episcopal Rector Harrison McLeod.
These volunteers will also share a meal each day and participate in thought-provoking discussions on topics ranging from why they choose to be involved with this project and what the greatest current challenges and opportunities are for their respective organizations to what each group can do to encourage stronger relationships.
“We are proud to pioneer this inspiring series with compassionate and impactful local community members and leaders,” says Habitat Greenville CEO Monroe Free. “The Bridge Builder Series is a wonderful example of how the Habitat mission seeks to bring people together by building home, hope and community.”
Habitat for Humanity is currently planning several Bridge Builder builds. Following the African American and Greenville PD project, the next up in the series will be an interfaith build, with representatives from local mosques, synagogues and churches working together to build a home for another local family in need.
Construction commenced immediately following the wall raising ceremony and will last approximately 12 weeks. Volunteers from each group will be present each day, working together and learning from one another. Joint workdays are June 21-22 and 27-29, July 11-13 and 25-27, August 9-10, 15-17, 23-24 and September 13-14. We welcome media visits on volunteer workdays from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Please call or email Nancye Edwards to schedule.
About Habitat Greenville
Habitat for Humanity Greenville County is a leading voice in addressing the pressing need for affordable housing options in Greenville County, partnering with local government and the private sector to offer viable solutions and advocate for impactful public policy. As part of its financial management program, the organization educates, informs and empowers participants to effectively manage their credit and secure low-interest mortgages, allowing them to purchase their own homes and help contribute positively to the community and the tax base of Greenville County.
Through these efforts and the construction of houses, Habitat for Humanity of Greenville enables Greenville families with low income to build strength, stability and self-reliance. Habitat Greenville received the EarthCraft Builder of the Year Award in 2017. Chartered in 1985, Habitat Greenville has completed construction of more than 360 homes. In recognition of its financial health, accountability and transparency, Habitat Greenville received 4-Star Charity status by Charity Navigator and a Platinum Seal by Guidestar. Learn more at www.habitatgreenville.org.
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