Using the circular saw, Richmond Hills Center Recruiter Sgt. Jean Mathelier lines the wood against the blade for a proper cut. Mathelier was one of approximately 10 Soldiers and Army civilians who volunteered to revive two abandoned homes in Queens, N.Y., Sept. 11.
New York Recruiters Build Hope on 9/11
Story and photos by Tina M. Beller, USAREC, New York City Battalion
Sept. 24, 2014
Armed with power tools and elbow grease, Queens, N.Y., Company recruiters commemorated the 13th anniversary of 9/11 by helping Habitat for Humanity restore two abandoned homes in New York City.
“Volunteering as a Soldier shows the people that the Army isn't just about shooting guns," said Richmond Hills Center recruiter Sgt. Jean Mathelier, for whom volunteering is a family affair. "The fact that I have kids myself makes it important for me to give back. I volunteered with Habitat for Humanity in Kansas and Oklahoma, and my wife volunteered with me as well."
“My kids are three and seven, so I’m exposing them to volunteerism right now by teaching them to ask their grandparents if there is anything they need done around the home.”
For two days, the recruiters laid tile, hung framing and dry wall, cut wood, and assisted with the installation of the plumbing.
“Today is a day of mixed emotions,” said Neil Hetherington, chief executive officer of Habitat for Humanity NYC. “Today is a day to reflect upon the tragedy of 9/11 and to remember that when we all come together, we are stronger. We are privileged today to serve alongside our Armed Forces who are here to help us build
hope.”
Carly Blatt, marketing and communications manager for Habitat for Humanity NYC, said the organization purchased the pair of detached abandoned homes for $1 each.
Carlisle Coppin, who’s lived in the neighborhood for 16 years, is glad to see the structures being revived.
“These two houses have been abandoned for so long, they’ve had raccoons and possums living inside,” he said. “Seeing the service members here today is a welcome sight, and hopefully, with the hard work everyone is putting into it, it will improve the neighborhood.
“Who knows, maybe even a veteran will move in.”
More photos from this venture are at https://www.facebook.com/ArmyRecruitingBattalionNewYorkCity.
Story and photos by Tina M. Beller, USAREC, New York City Battalion
Sept. 24, 2014
Armed with power tools and elbow grease, Queens, N.Y., Company recruiters commemorated the 13th anniversary of 9/11 by helping Habitat for Humanity restore two abandoned homes in New York City.
“Volunteering as a Soldier shows the people that the Army isn't just about shooting guns," said Richmond Hills Center recruiter Sgt. Jean Mathelier, for whom volunteering is a family affair. "The fact that I have kids myself makes it important for me to give back. I volunteered with Habitat for Humanity in Kansas and Oklahoma, and my wife volunteered with me as well."
“My kids are three and seven, so I’m exposing them to volunteerism right now by teaching them to ask their grandparents if there is anything they need done around the home.”
For two days, the recruiters laid tile, hung framing and dry wall, cut wood, and assisted with the installation of the plumbing.
“Today is a day of mixed emotions,” said Neil Hetherington, chief executive officer of Habitat for Humanity NYC. “Today is a day to reflect upon the tragedy of 9/11 and to remember that when we all come together, we are stronger. We are privileged today to serve alongside our Armed Forces who are here to help us build
hope.”
Carly Blatt, marketing and communications manager for Habitat for Humanity NYC, said the organization purchased the pair of detached abandoned homes for $1 each.
Carlisle Coppin, who’s lived in the neighborhood for 16 years, is glad to see the structures being revived.
“These two houses have been abandoned for so long, they’ve had raccoons and possums living inside,” he said. “Seeing the service members here today is a welcome sight, and hopefully, with the hard work everyone is putting into it, it will improve the neighborhood.
“Who knows, maybe even a veteran will move in.”
More photos from this venture are at https://www.facebook.com/ArmyRecruitingBattalionNewYorkCity.