Community singers, and some heartwarming thank-you's filled the air in the Bahde's new home. The Bahde family received a new home from the Habitat for Humanity organization just last week, and was selected after completing more than 400 volunteer hours with the organization. Even though it took a lot to get their hands on the key, the family thinks the feelings are compelling.
"It's overwhelming. I was excited, [and] scared; it's just a new step in our life," said Christina Bahde, new homeowner.
This is the 62nd home with the Kearney Habitat since its founding 20 years ago. The homes are built with an all volunteer force, and those volunteers say they only do it for one reason.
"The reason behind it is to help people that are less fortunate and need a home. You get a lot out of volunteering [and it's] a good feeling," said Jerry Marlatt, volunteer.
The family was chosen after a selection process that included two lengthy applications. They had to put in hours of sweat equity, and then the papers were signed over to the new homeowners. It was them who were extremely thankful at the end.
"The people that are in here...they just never think about themselves. They're tired, and you can tell they're tired. They work, they work...and when they do it, they don't think about themselves. They think about you. My heart goes out to all of them. They will always be in my heart," said Bahde.
