Mortgage Loan Originator Susan Liedel cuts wood with a circular saw.

As mortgage loan originators, Robin Tegel and Susan Liedel certainly understand the importance of having a safe and secure place to call home. Recently, they had the opportunity to assist families in need with their homeownership dreams by volunteering for Women Build Week with Habitat for Humanity of Racine.

Women Build Week focused on building and installing sheds at home sites. Habitat homes do not have garages, so sheds are needed to store lawn equipment, bicycles, and other items.

Susan (center, in the hat) and Robin (far right) with other volunteers and the Habitat for Humanity team.

Robin and Susan worked alongside the Racine Kenosha Builders Association and future Habit homeowners. Future homeowners are required to put in 300 hours of “sweat equity,” building their homes and homes for neighbors, to qualify to purchase their home at an affordable mortgage. 03170 Those payments then help to fund the construction of additional homes.

Susan was matched with a future homeowner, a single mom of two children. She and her partner cut wood to frame three sheds. Susan said it was an extremely hot day and the work was strenuous, but she found the woman’s story and her dedication to getting a home for her family inspiring. “Her story is one of choosing to move forward,” Susan said.

Robin had a little experience with building tools before volunteering with Habitat, but she picked up a few new skills and some classic building wisdom—measure twice, cut once—on the site. Building skills aren’t necessary to volunteer; others present will provide instruction if someone needs it.

Like Susan, Robin found volunteering with Habitat for Humanity to be rewarding.

Robin (left) on the job site.

“We met the children of the homeowner receiving the shed and they were so excited and very thankful for our service. Working alongside other volunteers, I felt a deep sense of connection to the community and pride in knowing that our efforts are making a tangible difference in the lives of these homeowners,” she said.

What an awesome way to help the community! Great job, Robin and Susan!