"In 2010, the first rehabilitation home was started by Thrivent Builds, Habitat for Humanity. The row home at 740 N. 13th street in Reading is located directly across the street from the Reading High School. Because of the struggling economy, new home construction was delayed until 2011 at a site in Muhlenberg Township. The 13th street home was donated, saving costs of the property.

"The home was completely gutted, new mechanicals and wiring installed and a new furnace purchased. Construction should be completed by the end of September and a single mother with four children will be moving in. There has been significant numbers of Lutheran volunteers on the crews and the funding for this year has been fully received from our churches. The NW Chapter has contributed over $2,000 for this year’s project.

"The outlook for a build next year in Muhlenberg Township seems bright with support from Thrivent Financial for Lutherans expected to be given. Thrivent Builds has already gathered significant carry-over funds which will be put towards our match for this new build.

"I encourage all congregations in the NW Chapter to support this worthwhile program, both with your financial contributions as well as with volunteer build teams.

We took many "action shot" pictures during the event. We've placed a few on our website to show you an example of what exactly we do at our annual picnic. Simply click the underlined words at the bottom of this posting in order to see these photos.

We had a great time coming together in fellowship and constructing these tables. Four of the completed picnic tables were gifted to four families, while the remaining tables were donated to the borough of Womelsdorf. Attached below are some pictures of the tables and the teams working on them.