The Volunteering Page of Janice Smith

FAMILY AND CURRENT HOUSING
Future Habitat homeowner Jennifer Wenzel applied to the program looking for an opportunity to provide her family with a safe, decent, affordable place to call their own. Roughly ten years ago, Jennifer joined the United States Army and served as a cook in the food service department. While stationed in an imminent danger area Afghanistan, Jennifer was injured during a firefight. Upon returning home, Jennifer and her two sons moved in with Jennifer’s parents while she recovered from her injuries. While Jennifer is thankful to be alive, her injuries resulted in many life changes including new physical limitations. Jennifer was unable to maintain her job as a lab technician and she has difficulty maneuvering around her parent’s home, specifically when it comes to climbing the stairs to her room. Jennifer is very appreciative of her parent’s assistance over the past years, but is ready to regain her independence and provide her sons with a place they can permanently call home. Connor is eight years old and loves to swim and his little brother, Corbin, is a ball of energy who is enjoying pre-kindergarten. Jennifer often talks about her love of cooking and baking and how helpful both boys are in the kitchen. The family looks forward to the day they can bake their favorite treats together in their own kitchen.

A BRIGHT FUTURE
Throughout her time in the Habitat program, Jennifer has proven to be a dedicated, hard worker. She recently completed the ten-week House2Home education series where she learned valuable skills regarding homeownership, maintenance, and personal and financial wellness. While Jennifer would say she learned a lot, she was also a leader in classes as she willingly shared her own strategies for achieving financial stability, especially on a fixed income. Although it sometimes seems overwhelming to balance raising her children, completing the Habitat program, and continuing treatment for her leg injury, Jennifer is committed to making a short term sacrifice for the long term benefit of owning her own home. And thanks to the Habitat program, Jennifer will purchase a home that is not just affordable, but perfectly suited to meet her physical needs. “I am so looking forward to having a home,” Jennifer said. “I think it will create an even better relationship with my family, especially my boys.”