Habitat homeowner Melissa McVay hopes to be able to move into her new house before Thanksgiving. It is being built by volunteers with Habitat for Humanity of Carroll County. Comet photo by Jennifer Archibald Melissa McVay is excited about moving into a new three-bedroom house in a few months. She and her son and daughter are living in a two-bedroom house now, and they'll all be happy to have a little more elbow room.

The McVay family qualified for the latest house being built by Habitat for Humanity of Carroll County, an affiliate of the Lafayette Habitat chapter. One house is built each year in Carroll County, and the McVay home will be number six.

As part of the requirements, Melissa must put in 250 hours of sweat equity. She has become so involved with the local Habitat that she was elected secretary. Since her son is 16, he also must contribute 100 hours of sweat equity. One of the ways he contributed was going with a Habitat group to North Carolina, to build a house there.

Habitat family eligibility is based on need, income guidelines, and required sweat equity. In return, new homeowners assume an interest free mortgage for 25 years. These funds go into a revolving account to build future houses.

Volunteer labor This 1,100 sq. ft. house is being built by Habitat volunteers at 3032W 500N, Delphi, which is one mile north and three miles west of Camden. It is located next door to another Habitat house. Comet photo by Jennifer Archibald "Most of the work is done on Saturdays," Melissa said. She tries to be at the site as much as possible when the workers are there.

They have had four Saturday workdays so far, and Melissa anticipates another 8-12 weeks.

"I hope to be in by Thanksgiving," she said.

Don Reef, president of Carroll County Habitat, said the chapter appreciates volunteers and donations.

During Old Settlers, the Honor Bound Motorcycle Ministry hosted the 2008 Freedom Run and raised $915 for Habitat through free will donations.

On a recent Saturday, area youth who attended the Hugh O'Brien Leadership Conference volunteered at the Carroll County site as part of their follow-up community endeavors.

Reef said he is also thankful for "regulars" at the site and for volunteers who come from the various churches.

More volunteers are always needed. To schedule a workday, call Reef at 765- 566-3509. Those who would like to become a Habitat partner family can also call Reef for eligibility requirements.