Habitat for Humanity of Porter County has been building homes for community members in need since 1994. Last year, however, they completed their first-ever build for a veteran, Tina Sanders, and her 16-year-old daughter, Katlynn
Sanders joined the U.S. Army in 2000 and spent a lot of her service making sure that fallen soldiers were returned to their families. Aside from serving her country, she also wanted to see the world.
“I wanted to travel, and that was the best way to travel and get different experiences in life,” Sanders explained.
Her service did not end there. After being released from active duty in 2008, she went on to join the National Guard where she stayed for three years. Sanders then earned her degree from Grantham University. It wasn’t until later that she discovered that she could be eligible for a Habitat for Humanity home.
“One of my really good friends goes to all the [Bomber Girls] meetings in Valpo and Portage, and she had heard about [Habitat for Humanity] and they were looking for a veteran,” Sanders explained. “So she brought it up to me and talked around with my family and we decided to fill out an application.”
The process was a lengthy one, but the dedication that the organization has to Tina and her family has been everlasting. They moved in last December, and the people at Habitat for Humanity have been sure to maintain contact with the new homeowner.
“They check on me occasionally, make sure everything’s okay. If I need anything I know I can call,” Sanders said.
For Sanders and her daughter Katlynn, this is a very special phase of their lives. Sanders works at a cafe at Valparaiso University during the day and bartends at the VFW in the evening. The newfound independence allows them to make the space their own and also provides a home to their pet cat and dog.
“It’s an accomplishment. It’s wonderful to have my own place. [Katlynn] enjoys it. She can make her room any way she wants…[and] the best part is, it’s mine!” Sanders explained.
Sanders spent 11 years of her life guaranteeing our independence; Habitat for Humanity returned the favor by offering her family an invaluable freedom that only comes with homeownership.
“We’re just thankful for everyone in the community that helped build it,” said Sanders.