A family of seven from Schenectady has a new home, thanks to the College and the local chapter of Habitat for Humanity.
Michael and Kelly Harris, and their five children – Sujea, 12, Sabrina, 9, Michael, Jr., 8, Isaiah, 8, and Samone, 3 – were surrounded by dozens of well-wishers Sunday as the house at 1124 Barrett St. was officially dedicated.
"I just want to say thank you to everyone," an emotional Kelly Harris said, standing in the middle of her crowded new kitchen. "I love all the volunteers so much. They worked really hard. They're just wonderful people."
The College donated the house to the local Habitat chapter, and the campus community has worked since last fall to help refurbish it.
President Stephen C. Ainlay said the genesis for the project sprang from students inspired by their trip to New Orleans to help with rebuilding efforts after Hurricane Katrina.
"They approached me about doing something to help someone in Schenectady," he said.
Ainlay challenged the campus community to help restore the home as a way to re-cultivate its sense of social-connectedness and civic commitment. Hundreds of volunteers, including members of athletic teams, Greek organizations, student groups, faculty, staff and administrators pitched in to renovate the house, built in 1910.
The family also chipped in 400 hours of “sweat equity” in their new home, which is just blocks from campus. Minor work on the house still needs to be completed, but the family should be in their new digs after the closing in a few weeks.
"I'm so thankful for Union College. We wouldn't be here if it wasn't for them," said Kelly Harris.