The Volunteering Page of Karen Thielens

Building with Habitat in Memory of Lorri Fairless

Join this special Women Build day dedicated to the memory of Lorri Fairless, to her heart, her legacy, and the mark she's left on all our lives.

This year, the day will look a little different than a typical build day. The group will spend time at the Habitat warehouse painting doors that will hang in the Robinson family's home, this year's Women Build family. During our morning devotion, we'll take time to remember Lorri, the life she lived, and the love she shared with so many of us. There will also be a tour of the affiliate, offering a closer look at how Habitat for Humanity East Central Ohio walks alongside families on the path to affordable homeownership.

The doors painted in Lorri's memory are doors the Robinson family will open every day. Doors to their kitchen. Doors to their bedrooms. Doors that close at night and open each morning to a home they are working hard to purchase and call their own. Lorri's legacy becomes part of the story of how the Robinson family is opening doors of stability, security, and a brighter future.


Meet the Robinson Family

FAMILY AND CURRENT HOUSING
Imani was born and raised in Canton and continues to live in the area with her two daughters: Ayanna, who is an adult, and Sanaa, who is currently in high school. Over the years, Imani has lived in a variety of rental situations, including public housing, the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program, and private rentals. Her most recent private rental was sold by the owner, forcing her to quickly secure new housing. She now resides in a rental where the cost exceeds her comfort level.

The current home has several maintenance issues. The doors and windows have air leaks, causing noticeable drafts throughout the house. Additionally, the home experienced a fire on the first floor prior to Imani moving in. Unfortunately, renovations were not properly completed, resulting in sloping floors throughout the first level.

Growing up, Imani watched her parents own their home and experienced the stability that came with it. She has always dreamed of providing that same sense of security for her own family. Given the current housing market, homeownership would not be possible for her without the support of the Habitat for Humanity program.

Since joining Habitat, Imani has fully committed to the process. She completed her sweat equity hours at the ReStore, in the Habitat workshop, and on Habitat construction sites. She also successfully completed homebuyer education classes in spring 2025, gaining essential skills in budgeting, financial planning, and home maintenance.

A BRIGHT FUTURE
Imani has been employed at AultCare Insurance as a customer service representative for over ten years. One of her goals as a homeowner is to support her adult daughter, Ayanna, by allowing her to live at home while she saves money and builds a strong financial foundation. Her younger daughter, Sanaa, enjoys playing volleyball and has a passion for K-pop and anime.

Imani embodies the strength passed down through the women who raised her and is determined to continue that legacy for her daughters. For Imani, it all begins with a home. She shared that this opportunity represents both stability and peace of mind. Stability in knowing her family will always have a place to call home, and peace of mind in knowing she can provide a safe, secure roof over their heads.