Service members helped build and fabricate homes as part of the Habitat for Humanity program at the Bremerton
New Hope building site July 11.
“Volunteering is the right thing to do,” said Chief Electrician’s Mate Perry Williams, Intermediate Maintenance
Facility. “Sailors get a chance to learn something new each time they come out.”
Habitat for Humanity works with community partners to fund home-building projects that provide home ownership
opportunities to low-income families.
“We appreciate the support we receive from Sailors from all over the Kitsap County, and I hope more people will
continue to come out and volunteer,” said Willy Winter, construction coordinator.
“The Navy has been a huge supporter of our program, and they have been a true blessing. I’m tremendously thankful
for their help and commitment.”
Winter added, before Sailors begin construction, they are trained and briefed about safety procedures.
“This is my fifth time volunteering at this building site, and it’s amazing to see the finished product,” said Machinist’s
Mate 1st Class Mike Dayton, also from IMF. “I remember when there was nothing here, and now homes are springing
out everywhere. I really enjoy building homes, and Habitat for Humanity is a great program to be part of.”
Habitat for Humanity has been active in Kitsap County since 1992. According to the organization’s Web site, Habitat for
Humanity of Kitsap County has housed more than 40 families to date. 
For one Sailor, making a difference to the community meant a lot to him.
“Habitat for Humanity makes a big difference to so many families, and I gain personal gratification for being part of
something this huge,” said Machinist’s Mate 1st Class Zane Stearns, IMF volunteer coordinator. “I really enjoy helping
out, and it benefits all of us.
“Everyone who comes out to volunteer learns a new skill, from dry walling to plumbing. I can apply everything I’ve
learned here and use it on my own home, too.”
Habitat for Humanity helps eradicate substandard housing and makes adequate, affordable shelter.