Sometimes, travelling on a lonely and rocky road, but still fighting hard leads to gaining a team, a bigger family and more. “It will be heaven,” Willie Shelly says of his upcoming Home Dedication. A proud native of Vero Beach, Willie faced a heartbreaking turning point when he lost the only home he had ever known. After the passing of his beloved mother, he found himself with no choice but to move into an all-male shelter which isolated him somewhat because he was not even allowed visits from his family. Willie leaned into his faith, praying daily for guidance and clinging to the belief that God would lead him forward.

Desperately wanting to establish a base, Willie learned of Habitat for Humanity through an associate. After talking with Indian River Habitat employees, he became shocked how God works when he applied and got accepted into the Homebuyer program.

“I can’t believe how nice I was treated, plus I improved my finances, and I made wonderful new friends. I never experienced that before until Habitat came into my life.”

Willie completed his sweat equity hours and program requirements; he is grateful for how much he learned through the Habitat program. Willie is eager to share the peace and comfort in a home that he can fill with love and family.