62nd FS ‘lends’ helping hand

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Grace Lee
  • 56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
LUKE AIR FORCE BASE --  To assist families in having affordable homes to live in, members of the 62nd Fighter Squadron volunteered in support of Habitat for Humanity Saturday in Avondale.

HFH is an international, nonprofit agency that builds and repairs houses all over the world using volunteer labor and donations. The organization also helps families purchase these houses through no-profit, no-interest mortgage loans or innovative financing methods.

"We wanted to be involved with this agency because part of our focus is on developing our Airmen to be involved in our community," said Capt. Brandon Roth, 62nd FS B flight commander. "In an effort to rally behind that focus, we strive to get out into the community on a regular basis to help where we can."

Volunteers were split into two groups. One team worked on a roof, nailing shingles, while the other built frames to secure air vents around multiple homes.

"We are definitely a hand up and not a handout," said Marcella Martina, HFH Central Arizona volunteering support manager. "Habitat for Humanity started with someone just trying to do what the Bible says: 'Help your neighbor.'"

HFH was founded in 1976 by Millard and Linda Fuller and since then has built more than 500,000 houses in nearly 3,000 communities. More than two million people worldwide live in a house built by Habitat.

There are 13 active HFH affiliates in Arizona. HFH Central Arizona has built, renovated and repaired more than 825 homes throughout Maricopa Country, from Apache Junction to Avondale, but none of this could've been possible without the efforts of volunteers.

"We are very grateful the 62nd Fighter Squadron came out to help," Martina said. "They were very enthusiastic about the idea of volunteering and we are glad to have their support."

For Capt. Nick Rallo, 62nd FS C flight commander, lending a helping hand is a way to build appreciation for things that are often taken for granted.

"I'm glad I was able to aid in building a home for a family that truly needs it," he said. "This volunteer opportunity is an eye-opening experience and really makes you thankful for what you have."