Future!
On a hot Saturday morning, I grabbed my camera and headed over to Texas Lutheran University to meet the rest of our KWED staff for one of our biggest live broadcasts ever. We went live from TLU, where the Habitat for Humanity Build for Better Bash got underway despite the sweltering Texas heat.
The Build for Better Bash was an event to construct wall panels for Habitat homes that will soon go up in the Seguin community. Volunteers and soon-tobe homeowners came out to swing hammers to the tunes of DJ D Trayne while helping their neighbors out.
While Darren Dunn and Linda Duncan interviewed the event hosts and families, I wandered the event, taking it all in with my camera. It was hot, y’all, and I hate the heat, but that did not stop people from having a good time. It was the definition of teamwork as Habitat staff members oversaw the construction, guiding the build process from the blueprints. Adults helped kids, teaching them how to swing a hammer and drive a nail in straight. All important skills to have when owning your own home.
This event was joyful, hopeful and most importantly a community-wide event. In this issue we’ve captured some of the individual stories from that day that highlight the importance of Habitat for Humanity and the dedication of local communities members to building a better Seguin.
Lizz Daniels Creative Director
COVERSHOT
Community members gather at TLU to participate in the Habitat for Humanity Build for Better Bash. Nearly 300 volunteers built wall panels for future Habitat homes.
BUILDING A BETTER HABITAT
Laying the foundation for a community of Habitat homes
SWEAT, TEARS & BLUEPRINTS
The physical labor and hardwork that goes into purchasing a Habitat home EVENTS
Community
& special promotions happening in the area this month.
Photo by Lizz Daniels
Darren
Lizz
Cindy Aguirre-Herrera
Chris Austin
Lizz Daniels ADVERTISING
Laurie
Linda
HABITAT Building a Better for Seguin
Laying the
foundation
for a community of Habitat Homeowners
Story by: Darren Dunn
An ambitious goal by a local nonprofit group may just put more local families into the home of their dreams. Guadalupe Valley Habitat for Humanity is known for building highquality, affordable and decent housing for qualified hard working families here in Seguin. The non-profit group and its volunteers build about five new homes a year in Seguin, which are then sold to families through no interest loans. It's a process that requires the families to put in sweatequity by helping to build their own home. They then are given the necessary tools and trainings to help them avoid the additional challenges that come with homeownership. These are working families who just needed a
little bit of help, and it's been a game changer for the families that have received the homes.
Building five homes a year was once a lofty goal for the local chapter, but now it has plans to push that number to 20 to 40 or more homes at a time. They don't just want to build a home here and there, they want to build a real community. A place where hard working Seguin families can thrive, a place where neighbors help each other, and a place that generates pride in one’s community.
The idea for the Guadalupe Valley Affliate to develop its own subdivision started shortly after the local affiliate merged with the much larger chapter in San Antonio. Both affiliates saw a benefit in a partnership.
The Seguin affiliate got additional support
and resources from San Antonio, while the San Antonio affiliate recognized that it had people applying for homes there but who actually worked and spent much of their time in Seguin. The partnership has continued to blossom over the years, and that ultimately led to the Guadalupe Valley Affliate purchasing just over 30 acres of land near State Highway 46 and Jefferson Avenue.
Madeline Zwicke, the executive director of Seguin’s Guadalupe Valley affliate, says it's a prime piece of real estate that they want to convert into a subdivision with more than 100 homes. Zwicke says it will be more than just a bunch of houses built together. Instead, she says it will be a real community for the families to enjoy.
Photos by: Lizz Daniels
"When it's completed, it will house 120 habitat homes, and it'll also be the future site of our office and ReStore and our home center,” said Zwicke.
The subdivision will be a major change for the local affiliate. Zwicke says they are currently building them one at a time, but this would change all that. It's a more effecient way to build, and it will create even more opportunities for families to find their new home.
“Right now, we are building on infill lots, or scattered sites throughout Seguin. I'm sure most (people) know that the cost of infill lots is really, really high right now. It's gone up quadruple in price since I started working for habitat five years ago. So, it's just not feasible for us to continue to build on scattered sites. We really do need to go into subdivision type building,” Zwicke.
People sometimes confuse affordable housing with terms like government housing or subsidized housing. There's a place for that type of housing in Seguin as well, but that's not what Habitat for Humanity does. They are helping to create homeowners and taxypayers, who will continue to contribute to the community in a positive way.
Taylor Judkin, assistant vice-president for development and communications for the combined San Antonio and Guadalupe Valley
Affliate, says they've already successfully built some of these neighborhoods in San Antonio. She says these are well-built, well-kept subdivisions.
“Currently in San Antonio, we are building a subdivision called Rancho Carlota. We actually just dedicated 24 new homes. From January to April (of this year), we built 24 new homes. So, the power of having that subdivision (is clear),” said Judkin.
Judkin says Habitat works with homeowners just like any other builder. They allow the homeowner to make decisions about the look and feel of their home, and that's one of the reasons why their neighborhoods are so special.
“They're not cookie cutter, so you can actually tell the houses apart. We have 12 different elevations. We have paint packages, with fun colors. So when you're coming through, you really see a sense of community. The great thing about our program is that they are putting in that sweat equity. They're building their neighbor’s home and they're building theirs too. So, they're able to get to know one another. They are building a true community within the subdivision, which I think is very unique compared to other subdivisions,” said Judkin.
The threshold required to buy a traditional new home continues to rise for many families. That's one of the reasons why Habitat officials
say this new planned subdivision will make such a big difference for Seguin's future.
“The average median income for a house is around $300,000 for a three-bedroom home. That's high for a lot of people, especially in the working class. We're offering around $145,000 for a brand new three or four bedroom, two bath home. They are absolutely beautiful, with open concepts, (and they are)...designed for different types of needs. So if you have a disability, you could be there and you could age in place. It's very accessible to all their needs and to everything that we see in the family,” said Judkin.
Creating more affordable housing is just part of the equation. The other part deals with the fact that the number of families looking for this help also continues to grow. Judkin says they know that the need exisits, which is why they are committed to making this project happen for Seguin.
“Right now, we get...roughly 4,500 applications a year, if not more. People truly need this affordable housing here in our community,” said Judkin.
Habitat's volunteers are ready and willing to take the next steps, but first they are going to need to raise a significant amount of money to make sure that everything is in place for the development of the neighborhood.
“Phases one and two will house about 40 to 50 homes. What's holding us back from getting that started is the infrastructure costs. That's what we're working on right now. We have to get those costs covered and it's a price tag of $2 million. That's what is holding us back, are those infrastructure costs,” said Zwicke.
While she knows this is an ambitious goal, Zwicke also believes it's a realistic goal for Seguin. She says once the work gets started on the subdivision, it will allow them to move much faster with the construction of each new home.
“It's easier for staff. It's easier for volunteers. It makes everything so much easier to be all in one place and not scattered throughout Seguin,” said Zwicke.
In June, Habitat held its first big community fundraising event. The Build for Better Bash brought more than 200 volunteers together at Texas Lutheran University to build dozens of wall panels that will be used in future homes. The event also helped to raise more awareness about Habitat for Humanity and its mission to build affordable and decent housing for working families. But it was also an attempt to share the group's vision for more housing opportunities in Seguin. It hopes that the bash will continue to grow and help to generate even more money for its overall cause. They also hope it attracts even larger donors, who can help them get to the $2 million needed for the neighborhood's infrastructure. Regular volunteer opportunities are available through Habitat.
Individuals, groups and businesses are all welcome to join in building a better future for Seguin.
“To be able to provide that at such a larger scale is really what we want to go for, especially here in the community. I think that's the biggest thing that we're seeing here in (Seguin) is that people don't realize that we're building currently, and we're building year-round. There's always a chance for you to get involved and to help us to grow. We would love to see more of the community come get behind us and support their local neighbors,” said Judkin.
To make a donation to Habitat or to find out other ways for you to support its work, visit Habitat for Humanity at www.habitatgv.org, or by calling 830-401-0422. •
Community photos courtesy Habitat for Humanity of San Antonio
Sweat, Tears, & BLUEPRINTS
An inside look at the dedication and physical labor required to purchase a Habitat for Humanity
Story & Photos by Lizz Daniels
Fhome
or many, homeownership is a significant milestone, a badge on their journey into adulthood. Yet, the path to this dream can be difficult. This is where Habitat for Humanity steps in, armed with blueprints, hardhats, and hammers, to transform these dreams into tangible reality, making a profound difference in the lives of local families.
In Seguin, Habitat for Humanity of San Antonio and Guadalupe Valley orchestrated the Build for Better Bash at Texas Lutheran University. The one-day event had a huge show out from the community as nearly three hundred volunteers came together to construct wall panels that will soon go up and become homes for Guadalupe County residents.
Daisy Davila was among those who will soon be homeowners. Like others, she is putting sweat equity into her future home.
The new home will mean big changes for Davila's three children, who are excited to leave apartment life behind in exchange for a future full of more space and backyard adventures.
"We've been renting an apartment for the past five years," Davila said. "It was okay in the beginning because the kids were little. But now they're 7, 8, and 9, so they've gotten a lot bigger. I'm excited to have our own space. Having neighbors, especially one right in front of you and one right next to you, is a lot sometimes. But I mean, this home is our space; they get to have their own backyard. They always wanted a trampoline. It's the little stuff like that."
Davila's family and children were right there alongside her, with safety gear on, building the walls that will soon become their home.
Lively music played from loudspeakers as the kids learned from adults who patiently taught the youngsters how to hammer in their nails properly. It was a community effort with volunteers working with the family to accomplish the project.
"It's different," Davila said. "You don't see a lot of people building their own homes. They check on their homes every once in a while, but you don't see them doing the boards. We're working for it. You know what I mean? It's just not getting handed to us."
Angela Mark is the mother of Gabby Mark, another soon-to-be Habitat for Humanity homeowner. Angela beamed with pride as she watched her daughter and grandson, Jeremiah, finally start construction on their home after being denied last year.
"She applied last year and didn't get accepted," Angela said. "I saw it on Facebook advertised, so I encouraged her to apply again. And she did. So a couple of months later, she called from work one day and said they called her. So we helped get her documentation in order and encouraged her to keep on the straight and narrow and keep working towards being a homeowner. We're so proud of her. She's a hard worker, and to see her grow into an opportunity to be a homeowner is such a blessing for her. And for Jeremiah. I think it's important for Jeremiah to be out here. He's only three, but he needs to see that putting hard work in and doing the right thing is what gets you to your goal. "
The families that purchase Habitat for Humanity homes must jump through all of the same hoops as those who purchase homes through more traditional routes. They must undergo credit and criminal background checks, and then, of course, underwriters are involved. Potential buyers must also put in physical labor hours during the building process to remain eligible for purchase. Then, the loan has to come through, and that's only if Habitat selects them.
It can be daunting, but Gabby reminds others that one year can change everything after a rejection.
"I was kind of disappointed, but if it weren't for my mom telling me to re-apply, I wouldn't be here," Gabby said. "You get denied again; keep trying. If they tell you that it's your credit, fix your credit. You know, keep working on it; don't get discouraged. I mean, everything happens for a reason. You're putting in your effort, you're putting in your hours."
Habitat for Humanity homeowners serve as a reminder that dreams don't only happen at night –– they can come true right there in the light of day while hammers clang away, out of sync, but in unison as they build a better future for local families. •
To promote your event on this page contact advertising at 830-379-2234 or email communitycalendar@kwed1580.com
Events
Featured Events
BIG GRANT
The City of Seguin is now accepting applications for the Business Improvement Grant (BIG) Program. Applicants may be eligible to receive up to a 75 percent matching grant, with a maximum grant awarded to an applicant not to exceed $10,000.
Improvements and other expenditures eligible under the Seguin BIG Program include facade improvements, sign improvements, site improvements, and other real property improvements. Program Guidelines and Applications are available online at www.SeguinTexas.gov or at www.SeguinEDC.com.
Applications must be submitted through the BIG application portal which can be accessed by visiting: https://bit.ly/seguinbig24 by the close of business on the last day of each month. For more information, visit www.SeguinEDC.com, or call 830401-2476.
July 16
FEMA Disaster Recovery Center
Eligible residents may qualify for disaster assistance from FEMA and the Small Business Administration (SBA). The application Deadline is Tuesday, July 16. Contact FEMA to determine eligibility by visiting www. DisasterAssistance.gov, calling 800621-3362 between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m., or visiting in person at the Disaster Recovery Center.
August 7
Women of Influence Conference
The Seguin Area Chamber of Commerce will have its Women of Influence Conference on Wednesday, Aug. 7 and Thursday, Aug. 8 at the Seguin Coliseum, located at 950 S. Austin St. in Seguin. For ticket information visit www. seguinchamber.com or call 830-379-6382.
July 25
Healthcare Worker Award
Do you know a healthcare worker who goes above and beyond in their career?
The Seguin Area Chamber of Commerce is accepting nominations for the 2024 Clinical Healthcare Worker Award. The deadline to submit nominations is Thursday, July 25. For more information, call 830-379-8263.
August 13
2024 4-H Awards Banquet
The 2024 Guadalupe County 4-H Awards Banquet will be held at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 13 at the Seguin Coliseum. Dinner will be served at 5:30 p.m., followed by the awards at 6:30 p.m. RSVP with the Extension office by Thursday, Aug. 1 by calling 830-303-3889.
July
Caregiver Cafe
There will be a Caregiver Cafe at 9 a.m. on the 1st Thursday of the month at Spirit of Joy Lutheran Church and at 2 p.m. on the 3rd Sunday of the month at Emanuel’s Lutheran Church. This will be an informal gathering for caregivers to share with each other over a cup of coffee. For more information, call 830-272-0040, ext. 104 and leave a message.
September 7
FFA Pantherfest and Tractor Pull
The Navarro FFA Booster Club will have its Pantherfest and Tractor Pull on Saturday, Sept. 7 at The Big Red Barn, located at 390 Cordova Rd. The Tractor Pull begins at 10 a.m. with a $30 a hook fee. Food trucks will be on site from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Pantherfest will run from 5 to 11:30 p.m. with a catered meal by Schulze’s Pit Room.
Swinging HAMMERS for a
Volunteers show up and show out for Build for Better Bash Good Cause
Story by: Cindy Aguirre-Herrera
Photos by: Lizz Daniels
Habitat for Humanity is not only about the family moving into the home but about the community that becomes family along the way.
However, before becoming family, these folks stepped up to the plate simply as volunteers, just as those volunteers recently came together for the first-ever "Build for Better Bash" benefiting Habitat for Humanity of San Antonio and Guadalupe Valley.
The volunteers hammered away in shifts -- piecing together 2x4s for dozens of wall panels to be used for future homes. The event was held outside TLU's Seguin Hall located just off of West Court St.
The whole idea for the event was to raise money for the non-profit group and rally and celebrate the families and the gifts they will soon receive.
A number of businesses sponsored the event. Those businesses came out not only with their checkbooks but with their employees who also wanted to give back.
A definite family member is CMC Steele Texas.
Employee Garrett Negen says he was impressed with the Build for Better Bash event. However, he says the local steel mill has been a part of the effort for a very long time.
"We have like a monthly group of people that come out here. Like every department gets their month where they come out to the Habitat and normally, they have us throw up the walls because most of the guys are pretty
mechanically inclined so we can throw up the walls pretty fast," said Negen. Although construction isn't an everyday thing, Iris Garza says participating in the Habitat build sure did take her down memory lane, where hammering away took her back to
Although she is not in construction, Iris Garza says being part of the Habitat event quickly took her back to her own family roots, where she remembers working on projects with her grandfather. She says being able to build alongside him and having a final product to show have made way for many favorite memories -- memories that she knows will also be created for the families that go on to be selected by the program.
Garza participated on behalf of The Law Office of Ruben James Reyes. Garza, who happens to be Reyes' sister, said the experience again brought up old memories while also creating new ones.
"It's been a very long time. I was little. But now, my son is in construction now. In our team there is six and I think only three have not (hammered a nail). Today is the first day my niece put a nail through a board. So, she learned today," said Garza.
Steering away from those banker hours and all for a good cause was the employee family over at First Commercial Bank.
Shawn Martinez, the executive vice president senior lending officer for FBC, says she enjoyed watching her team come from behind the desk. She says it's all about building a better community.
"It's been really exciting being out here and being a participant of putting these walls together and seeing the families out here was really cool to have them out here and knowing that we are doing something to help them. It's been really great having our teammates out here. We are normally bankers 8 to 5 and out here hammering and barely missing fingers at times but no injuries so far," said Martinez.
Family helping family was also the name of the game for the Donegan Family of Barnard Donegan Insurance.
Scott Barnard of San Antonio says while it was not his first time to build for Habitat, it was the first time for him here in Seguin.
"We come out and support the community a lot. We enjoy helping the community. We enjoy helping the families that need homes. So we are always ready to help," said Barnard.
Making the experience even more precious was the opportunity to work alongside his sons.
"It's great. It's teaching them the life skills and work ethic and all those things in spending weekends doing these things, it's really great. It's good for them too. It teaches them a lot," said Barnard.
One of those sons, Britt Barnard, remembers working for Habitat with his grandad. He says it's always a great experience.
"I think it's really awesome. It's a little a different environment than putting up the houses physically but this is awesome to see where everyone pitches in and plays their part in helping different families. It's awesome to see despite all the things going on in the world -people coming together for the better of several different families. It's awesome," said Britt.
Also making it a family affair was Britt's younger brother 15-yearold Braxton Barnard. Braxton says although he is no stranger to building
things, he was impressed with this latest build in Seguin. He says it was good to see other folks like him come out of town to help.
"People get to experience helping people in a new community and they do it all together," said Braxton.
This year's experience recorded plenty of new memories, especially for those where it's been forever since they picked up a hammer. Nonetheless, all those amateur and professional skills are forever locked in the walls of these homes belonging to their new Seguin family.
