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Typical of the giving and caring people that “make it happen” is this group of teens from Hopewell United Methodist Church in Sherrill’s Ford. Bill Ferguson of Forest City (back row, right) is one of RHP’s local skilled volunteers who assist, guid
. Rutherford Housing Partnership is not just a non-profit organization but a commitment by those involved and those who provide the labor to get the job done. Individuals, churches, and in the summertime as many as 400 youth from all over the country come to Rutherford County for hand-on mission work. The mission work of this organization includes anyone and everyone who wants to help. It also gets volunteers who assist raising money to keep this great partnership growing and giving. Donations to the Habitat ReStore which benefits the organization, people helping with pick ups of donated items, sponsorship or participation as a rider or volunteer at Gears & Gables, the annual fund raising cycle event at Mayfest in Rutherfordton, helping out at the spaghetti dinners at R-S Central High School, qualified supervisors, laborers, plumbers, electricians and skilled men and women - all are needed and appreciated. There is something for everyone who would like to give “neighbor to neighbor”. Your reward is a great feeling and from those who receive your help, a lot of prayers, smiles and tears. This is one program in which you give and get back more than your give.
In 2010 the program improved 175 homes: including 90 urgent repairs, 20 roofs repaired or replaced, 25 handicap ramps built, involving 786 dedicated volunteers.
Rutherford County should be proud that this partnership was created and exists as needed help has found a way to make a better way of life for its’ citizens.
The Executive Director for this partnership is the wife of a Gilkey Farmer who still sells eggs to make ends meet.
Her name is Nell Perry Bovender. She, together with Linda Gorneault Tribou, work at their simple offices inside the Habitat ReStore in Forest City. All the office furniture and mostly needed items have been donated. Nell will quickly tell you: “This is the most rewarding work I’ve ever done.” She gets calls from thankful recipients or their children which repeatedly say: “You’ve changed my mother’s (or father’s) life!”
Nell Perry Bovender is convinced that the partnership is definitely doing the right thing, but says “we could use a lot more donations.” This Executive Director is always looking for supplies, equipment, or the financial aid to help people in desperate need. Every dollar helps to keep the partnership going.
If you care to donate money, time or talent, the phone number is 828-248-3431. The address is Rutherford Housing Partnership, c/o Habitat ReStore, 686 West Main Street, Forest City, N. C. 28043.
To become committed or get involved with this worthwhile organization just might be the most rewarding thing you have ever done in your lifetime.
