The Volunteering Page of David Whittington

Family and Current Housing 

Cortez Daniels is a Canton native who has worked hard to be where he is today. Every effort he makes to improve his quality of life is rooted in his desire to be an example for his example, and his path has not been easy. Cortez has experienced homelessness and spent time staying with friends and family before qualifying for public housing, where he has lived for the past ten years. While that housing provided some level of stability he hadn't experienced before, he has come to realize that remaining there is not helping him invest in his future. 

His current home does not provide enough space for his family. Cortez sleeps on an air mattress in the living room so his sons can have the bedrooms. The unit has maintenance concerns, including bathroom tiles lifting from the subfloor, faucet leaks, and water backing up in the bathtub and sink. Cortez also has safety concerns about the surrounding environment, including domestic disturbances, gunshots, and occasional break-ins. 

Since joining Habitat, Cortez has fully committed to the process. He has completed his partnership hours in a variety of ways, including working at the ReStore, assisting in the Habitat workshop, and working on build sites. In fall 2025, he also completed homebuyer education classes, gaining essential skills in budgeting, financial planning, home maintenance, personal development, and more.

A Bright Future 

Cortez takes great pride in earning his Commercial Driver's License after graduating from trucking school. After gaining experience with a national trucking company, he launched his own trucking business in 2025.

He speaks about his sons with deep pride. Jay'marr is talkative, thoughtful, and helpful, with a strong interest in fashion. Cortez sees leadership qualities in him and is excited about his future. Tre'von, who has experienced mild seizures, does not let that hold him back. He is respectful, helpful around the house, and while he may be shy at first, he has a fun and goofy side. 

Cortez is especially excited about becoming a homeowner because of what it will teach his sons. As he puts it, he wants them to learn that "if you work hard, one day that hard work will pay off." He wants this journey to show them that homeownership is within their reach too, and to begin a lasting legacy for their family.