Habitat to kick off next round of construction

FINDLAY — Habitat for Humanity of Findlay-Hancock County will officially kick off its next round of construction with a Raise the Wall ceremony at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday in the Krystal Ridge Addition neighborhood in Findlay. The event, which is open to the public, will mark the beginning of construction on three new homes for the Johnson (Home #65), Agner (Home #66) and Radke (Home #67) families. Held in the 1700 block of Bishop Lane, this Raise the Wall event symbolizes a turning point for these families as they lift the first walls of homes they will help build alongside more than 225 volunteers on each home during the next 10 weeks. These three homes are part of Habitat's plan to construct 20 homes in the Krystal Ridge Addition by the end of 2027. "Our community's support is what allows us to provide not just shelter but stability and strength to families," said Wendy McCormick, executive director. "This Raise the Wall ceremony is more than just the start of construction — it's the beginning of life-changing transformation for these families. We are excited to continue our biggest build year yet during our 25th anniversary year." The partner families: Maria Johnson (Home #65): A devoted mother to sons Trey and Mason, Johnson's current duplex is deteriorating due to flood zone issues and a shifting foundation. Encouraged by a Habitat volunteer, she applied and was thrilled to be selected. "My boys immediately began making plans for their new rooms," she laughed. "The best part of this journey isn't just the house," she said. "It's the support. It's knowing that we're not alone, that there are people out there who believe in us, who want us to succeed. This is going to change our lives." Sara Agner (Home #66): A single mother to twin boys, Agner juggles full-time work while raising her son Liam, who has cerebral palsy, and his energetic twin, Luke. Her current rental is not accessible, prompting her to seek help through Habitat. "I have a lot going on in my life and everyone there understands I have a lot on my plate," explained Agner. "Sometimes when I'm there, it's like they take that plate and set it aside on the table for a while. The Habitat team and volunteers have become like an extended family, sharing their time, kindness, and encouragement. I really appreciate everyone." Isaiah & Nicole Radke (Home #67): Living in an unsafe and cramped rental with their children Tyreese and Lexi, the Radkes needed space and safety. With guidance from Habitat's Financial Opportunity Center, they built new financial habits and hope. "We chose to come to Habitat because we needed more room and a safe place for our kids to grow, and renting even the smallest place is just too expensive," Nicole said. Volunteers are needed to help construct these homes. No prior experience is necessary, and all tools and instruction are provided. Sign up at habitatfindlay.org or call 419-429-1400 ext. 5. Major sponsors for the fall build include The Reinhart Foundation, Kreate, Marathon, Whirlpool, the city of Findlay, GSW, Hempy Water, Kershner Excavating, McNaughton-McKay, National Lime & Stone, Ohio Logistics, The Shelly Company, State Farm — Dan Maciejewski and Van Horn, Hoover & Associates.