By: Kattie Parsons

Milestones are a topic discussed quite often at Lee University. Becoming an independent college student is a milestone for the incoming freshmen, and graduating is a milestone for the seniors. Lee strives to help others reach important milestones in their lives, which is why Lee is excited to partner with Habitat for Humanity of Cleveland (HFHOC) to reach one of its milestones; constructing its 100th home in Bradley County.
“Lee University feels it is important to give back to our immediate community, to be good neighbors and to provide opportunities for those who are less fortunate,” said Chris Conine, Vice President for Business and Finance. “We are thrilled for the opportunity to partner with Habitat of Cleveland by sponsoring its 100th home and giving a family a fresh start on life.”
Since its foundation in 1990, HFHOC has built 99 homes in Bradley County in addition to numerous home renovations. HFHOC is a non-profit Christian housing ministry. Its goal is to develop communities for people in need by building and selling houses with zero percent interest loans. Along with paying for the home, the families complete a certain amount of “sweat equity” hours in which they volunteer time with Habitat either by doing construction or working in the office. Habitat’s program strives to provide a hand up, not a hand out.
This fall Lee is sponsoring the 100th HFHOC build. As a sponsor, Lee will help cover cost of materials as well as providing a project team and volunteers to help with construction. The foundation of this home was poured in mid-August and the home is scheduled to be dedicated in December 2012.
Sylvester and Stella Hetiback are the future owners of this home. Originally from an island called Pollap off the coast of Micronesia, they moved to America in order to seek a better life for their children. Sylvester and Stella have four children: Sylvanna, 15; Veston, 14; Vesrod, 12; and Stelson, 7.
“We are very excited to build our 100th home in Bradley County,” said Annie Kinworthy, HFHOC Community Development Coordinator. “I am happy for the Hetiback family and grateful for Lee’s support.”
Lee faculty and students are encouraged to volunteer and may contact Dr. Mike Hayes, Lee’s VP for student Development, ay 423-614-8406 for more information on how to get involved.

PHOTO 1: Volunteers from Lee University join the HFHOC staff for a group photo.
PHOTO 2: Raising the wall are (l to r) Matthew Carlson, HFHOC Executive Director; Dr. Paul Conn, Lee University President; Larry Berry, Lee’s Director of Physical Plant; Conine; and Hayes.