The second Habitat for Humanity-Freeborn-Mower affiliate home was dedicated Sunday.

Monday, October 16, 2000

The second Habitat for Humanity-Freeborn-Mower affiliate home was dedicated Sunday.

Two months ago, another home was dedicated at Albert Lea. Sunday’s dedication in Austin marked the 13th project completed by the local affiliate in its nine-year history.

Five homes have been completed in Albert Lea, seven in Austin and one in Adams.

Debra Amdahl, a single mother, and her son, Tim, 12, and an Ellis Middle School student, will now call the house at 2011 Oakland Ave. East their "home."

Ruth Seavey, another Habitat affiliate homeowner, was the new homeowner’s advocate.

"I’m just as happy for her as I was for myself," Seavey said.

There was a lot of happiness expressed Sunday afternoon, when Habitat volunteers and friends crowded into the new one-story home to share in the dedication ceremonies.

Intern Pastor Shari Mason gave the invocation and conducted the blessing of the home.

"What a joyous time this is," Mason remarked.

Volunteers under the direction of Gayler Jensen erected the two-bedroom home, which sits atop a full basement along Oakland Avenue East in Austin.

Wayne Hanson, president of the affiliate’s board of directors, presented Amdahl with the keys to her new home. She also received a Bible and a quilt that was made by youth at Grace Lutheran Church, according to Mason.

Amdahl expressed her appreciation to all for assisting her in the project. Both the mother and her son contributed extensive sweat equity in the project, which includes a zero-interest mortgage.

Hanson of Albert Lea is completing the final year of a three-year term as the affiliate’s president.

"This is more than a house," Hanson said, "This is a home offering security and a place to feel safe from insecurities of life."

Keith Barnes and Emmett Earl praised the 50 volunteers, who worked under Jensen’s supervision.

Barnes said the volunteers are the "backbone of getting the job done."