Habitat for Humanity hosted a kick-off celebration last Friday at 551 Forest Lakes Drive for the construction of the organization's 17th home-building project. In conjunction with Youth Build La Plata, the new Forest Lakes home slated for completion by summer's end will go to Misty Petty, a single mother of two. The kick-off included a blessing of the site as well as recognition of all the individuals who made the project possible. Dedicated to helping with affordable housing and substandard living environments, the staff and volunteers of Habitat for Humanity wasted no time as work continued immediately following the Friday afternoon celebration.

Brandon O'Karma hangs the YouthBuild La Plata banner prior to the Habitat for Humanity's kick-off celebration Friday in Forest Lakes. Joey Smithwick extends his reach with the nail gun to fasten a piece of plywood to the home's frame. An air compressor works overtime as Michael Prescott secures the home’s exterior. Brittany Adkison, program director for Youthbuild, thanks her staff before lunch. Michael Prescott handles a piece of plywood as the home begins to take shape last week. Bart Moyers addresses the staff and volunteers of Habitat for Humanity as he blesses the home site at 551 Forest Lakes Drive on Friday afternoon.