Et cetera : Oak 3 builds homes and new lives in Des Moines

Team leader Brandy and Corps members Lindy and Chris planting a garden for Rock the Block.

By Cyrus Bastarache

AmeriCorps NCCC team Oak 3 had the opportunity to serve the Greater Des Moines Habitat for Humanity in Iowa, a provider of low income housing and renovations. The non-profit organization is committed to giving families a hand up and partners with them to build new homes. Habitat also works with residents on home improvements through their Rock the Block program.

The team assisted in the concurrent construction of five new homes with Habitat’s Blitz Build initiative by providing skilled labor and directing volunteers. Framing, siding, and roofing were installed on the eco-friendly houses with the help of Oak 3. They also spent time with Rock the Block painting existing homes and removing broken concrete from replaced stoops.

“I find the service very rewarding knowing I’m assisting in giving families a once in a lifetime chance at owning their own home” says NCCC member Michael Shores from Shannon, Illinois.

Oak 3 additionally assisted with the Animal Rescue League of Iowa’s Dog Jog 5k for an Independent Service Project (ISP) in Des Moines. The team was also enriched by service learning activities by walking around and observing the neighborhoods they were serving, sitting in on Habitat construction meetings, and partaking in a housing dedication for one Habitat partner family.