If you were unable to attend our Annual Election Meeting in November 2011 you missed out on an exceptional presentation from Karen Boston and her son, Anthony. The Gwinnett County Chapter of Thrivent Builds sponsored their Habitat for Humanity house in 2009. I was able to conduct an email interview with Ms. Boston and was given permission to share it with you on the website.

What was your experience like working with Habitat for Humanity and Thrivent Financial for Lutherans?
My experience with Habitat was basically a real eye opener. Before being selected, I thought that Habitat homeowners were only those that had experienced extreme emergencies such as hurricane victims or national refugees. But after being selected I realized that Habitat recognized that anyone who cannot manage safe and suitable housing has an emergency to them.

I enjoyed my experience with Thrivent Financial for Lutherans greatly because I learned a lot about commitment. The Thrivent members were so committed to my son and I. The organization was so committed in so many areas. First, I liked the fact that they knew my son and I by name. No matter which church volunteered they always knew something about Anthony and I . I really appreciated that because I knew that our outcome really mattered to them. Thrivent was also committed to every aspect of my process right down to the closing. I really cherish the photo album that chronicled my homes progress, it one of my most valued possessions.

How has your life been affected by this?
My life has been affected by strengthening our relationship with friends and family. In the apartment our family could not visit as often because sometimes a hotel stay was needed. But this Thanksgiving I had 8 overnight family members to visit for the holiday. My son Anthony regularly [has] at least 4 friends from the Parkview football or wrestling team over at any given time.

What was your favorite part of the process?
My favorite part of the process, was my closing day! That day I felt so empowered! I was moving to my own home, and it was mine. I felt like life was going to be great. Anthony and I had a good start to try to accomplish whatever we wanted out of life.

What does your new home mean to you?
My new home means OWNERSHIP. Not just ownership of owning a home. But ownership of my actions. I knew that having the opportunity to own a home meant making good decisions for my son and I. Decisions like spending habits and budgeting. Also ownership in maintaining my home as it relates to repairs and appearance. And finally ownership to my neighbors and my community. I want my neighbors to know that I value my home and want to help in making our community a beautiful place to live.

Anything else you'd like to comment on?
I think that the mandatory workshops that new homeowners attend are a great value. I recently had a lot of medical expenses that threatened my budget. I resisted the urge to use some of the high interest pay day loan options. I made a budget, toughed it out, and now I am back on target. I also love the diversity in my neighborhood! Our neighborhood events introduce so many new foods and cultures! I love my home, I thank Thrivent for supporting the Boston family.