BY: TANNER HANCOCK

Give a man a fish, and he eats for a day. Give a man a house, and he can eat inside. 

As a part of Greek Week festivities, fraternity and sorority members alike have joined with Habitat for Humanity in an effort to build one of the six new homes soon to be occupied by local and responsible families in need. Through a blitz build process, one of these homes will be ready by week’s end.

Split into two teams of 30, sorority and fraternity members came together to create teams of roofers, craftsmen, and general do-gooders in their effort to give back to the community in a way that will be remembered by thankful families for years to come.  

Located in the Silver Leaf subdivision, Habitat for Humanity’s third subdivision located in Knox county, the din of hammers and hard work signals the progression of a truly memorable achievement both for the University of Tennessee and the city of Knoxville at large.

For Senior and Delta Gamma Hanna Powell, her first time with Habitat for Humanithy was an experience to remember “The Habitat Build was a very humbling experience,” said Hanna enthusiastically. “I have never gotten to participate in Greek Week until this year and it was great to see the entire Greek community come together to help build a house for a deserving family.”

Freshman and Kappa Sigma John Garrett likewise gained much from the memorable experience. “I really enjoyed getting to the building site for Habitat for Humanity and see the many houses that have already been built in that area,” John elaborated of his hours spent working. “I was glad to help out a family with building their house. “It is special to know that what I did helped out another family.”

Either choosing to come at their scheduled time or whenever they please, the members of the Greek community strive all week long to create a sustainable and brighter future for the city of Knoxville. Though difficult at times, the volunteer workers prove that one can do meaningful work and still have fun doing it. Regardless of what some may say, once completed, the habitat house will stand as a testament to the good works and charity the brothers and sisters of The University of Tennessee are willing and able to give back to the community. 

Founded in 1985, the Knoxville branch of Habitat for Humanity specializes in building simple, yet affordable houses for those in need. By utilizing volunteer work and selling the houses for no profit, Habitat for Humanity provides responsible in-need families with the opportunity to better themselves in a way few charities offer.

For opportunities to donate or work with Habitat for Humanity around Knoxville, visit their website at http://www.knoxvillehabitatforhumanity.com, or locate them on their Facebook page.

Further reading:

1.     http://www.knoxvillehabitatforhumanity.com/2011_blitz_build

2.     http://www.knoxvillehabitatforhumanity.com/about