Shauna Oden, executive director of Loudon County Habitat expects a large crowd to join in the celebration. “With four homes, there are so many sponsor representatives, volunteers, family, friends, neighbors and community members who want to attend. We have been very excited to partner with Manuel, Marcela, Tim and Dylann on their homes and want this to be a memorable experience. For this first to happen during our 20th year is truly a blessing.”

Sponsors for the homes include: Loudon United Methodist Church, the George R. Johnson Family Foundation (area Hardees), First National Bank and First Baptist Church of Tellico Village. More than 4,000 volunteer hours have been donated to build these four homes. “I am extremely grateful for all the volunteers I have met during this adventure of building my house,” said Dylann Vendola.

The families are working hard to meet the last few requirements before buying their homes and all hope to move in soon. Tim Mincey can’t wait for his children, James and Lilly, to experience the joy of neighborhood living and the Sanchez family (Manuel, Laura, Silvia and Victor) looks forward to moving out of their 2-bedroom apartment and into a safe home.

Habitat for Humanity is celebrating 20 years of serving Loudon County families. Seeking to put God’s love in to action, Habitat for Humanity brings people together to build homes, communities and hope. For more info on the Loudon County Habitat program, visit www.loudoncountyhabitat.org or contact Loudon County Habitat at 865-458-0704.

This story is contributed by a member of the Knoxville community and is neither endorsed nor affiliated with Knoxville News Sentinel