Sharry Mathews, executive director of Habitat for Humanity, is also known to Auburn Rotarians as the daughter of Rotarian Jim Mathews. Sharry brings an affinity for service to others, as demonstrated by her previous work with Camp ASSCA and past service in Habitat International.

Mathews noted that everyone deserves a decent home and Habitat is accomplishing this goal one house at a time. Not only is the organization helping those in need, but it is also positively changing our community. Last year, two Habitat homes were built; this year, six homes are projected with two already completed. The homes cost about $45,000 and are typically about 1,200 square feet, which includes three bedrooms and two bathrooms. Appliances are donated by Whirlpool. With no-interest loans and donated labor, monthly payments range between $200 to $250.

Recipients provide 500 hours of “sweat equity” and qualify by having the ability to make payments, have acceptable financial ratios and having annual income below 50 percent of the local median income. They also attend classes on budgeting, home ownership and home maintenance.

The local Habitat for Humanity chapter now has a full-time construction coordinator that has set the new construction record at 10 weeks and six days!

Mathews (center) with Club President Debbie Shaw (left) and program host Clyde Prather (right)