The 16-person group volunteers with Habitat for Humanity of Greater Dayton. Habitat’s goal is to offer a hand up, not a hand out, for people who meet requirements. Approved participants must meet income requirements, complete sweat equity hours and a training program and provide a down payment to earn a home through the program. As the no-interest mortgage is paid off, the funds are used to build the next house.
Members of the Golden Hammers are Alan Berry, Tom Bernlohr, Don Chislaghi, Don Dunn, Richard Elliott, Larry Evans, Bryan George, Mike Grinstead, Paul Hammer, Dale Hill, Phil LaDue, Lin Pursel, Mark Reitz, Ron Rodenroth, Frank Stauble and Gary Tucker.
No one remembers exactly when the Golden Hammers began, but it was more than 10 years ago. Many of the members have been with the group at least the last 10 years, some longer still.
The group meets Wednesdays and is currently focusing on building a house in Fairborn.
“We did the bulk of the construction on the last 15 homes Habitat for Humanity constructed in Greene County, and now that Habitat of Humanity of Greater Dayton serves both Greene and Montgomery County we help out all over the greater Dayton area,” Golden Hammers member Rodenroth said.
He emphasized that all types of skills are needed from volunteers.
“If you want to make a difference in the community, get out there and do something,” Rodenroth said. “You will enjoy it. You don’t have to be a man or a handyman to contribute. It takes a lot more than hammer and nails to put up a house.”
Many people have created groups within the Habitat family of volunteers. Likeminded friends and family get together to help those in need achieve home ownership. There are many volunteer opportunities within Habitat of Humanity of Greater Dayton, both inside and out.
A dedication is held after each house is completed, and the owner is presented with the keys to the house.
“It is an uplifting experience you will not soon forget,” Rodenroth said. “Come join us for a day and see for yourself.”
For more information, go online to www.daytonhabitat.org.
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