On Wednesday, Dec. 5 Habitat for Humanity of Cleveland (HFHOC) dedicated its 100th home in Bradley County. Lee University was the sponsor of the 100th build.

Lee University President Dr. Paul Conn spoke at the dedication luncheon, commenting on the long-standing affinity Lee has held toward the Habitat for Humanity mission.

Chris Conine, Vice President for Business and Finance, represented Lee at the key passing ceremony, which took place following the luncheon. The key passing ceremony is a symbolic transfer of ownership from HFHOC to the new owners.

“Words fail to fully express my gratitude for the Habitat for Humanity team, Sunrise Rotary, and the other 100th home sponsors, and the countless individuals who partnered in providing the Hetiback family with this beautiful home,” said Conine.

The 100th home was purchased by Sylvester and Stella Hetiback, originally from the island of Pollap off the coast of Micronesia, who moved to America in order to seek a better life for their children: Sylvanna, 15; Veston, 14; Vesrod, 12; and Stelson, 7. The family were all present for the dedication and the ceremony where they accepted the keys to their new home.

“It’s not about the house, it’s about the family,” said Matt Carlson, CEO of HFHOC. “It is about providing them with hope and the ability to dream.”

Lee University wishes to continue serving Habitat for Humanity families by encouraging them to see how education can enrich their lives. Conine also announced that Lee will now offer one college course, free of charge, to a member of each family purchasing a home from HFHOC, beginning with the Hetibacks.

“We hope that the ability for a member of a family to take one course, for free, will become a prelude to big dreams, great possibilities and a great future,” said Conine.

For more information about Habitat for Humanity of Cleveland please visit http://habitatofcleveland.org or call (423) 473-4610.

For more information about Lee University please visit https://www.leeuniversity.edu.

Pictured here at the key passing ceremony are (l to r) Carolyn Webb (Whirlpool), Cindy Slater (Whirlpool), Charlotte Peak-Jones (KACE Developments/4th District Bradley County Commissioner), Pat Fuller (Bradley Sunrise Rotary President), Barry Boetter (Habitat for Humanity of Cleveland Board President), Conine, and the Hetiback family.