Habitat nearing completion on 40th house

It wasn't going to be his home for a couple more days.

But Bryant Fowler still made sure to stand outside his new Aurora house to welcome the dozens of volunteers who helped make his dream of being a homeowner possible.

"Everybody's been so wonderful to us," the Aurora man said. "It's just unbelievable."

Members of several area churches and volunteers from Fox Valley Habitat for Humanity gathered Saturday at the new Fowler residence to celebrate the completion of the roughly two-month-long building project.

The two-bedroom residence is the 40th home built by the group, one of several homes being completed in the next several weeks.

"We're delighted to be able to celebrate this success," said John Guiffre, president of the group. "With just one home at a time, and one hour of sweat equity at a time, we're building up this community."

Volunteers said roughly 150 people donated their time, money and talents to make the Fowler residence possible.

Chuck Rose, a volunteer coordinator from Good Shepherd Lutheran Church of Naperville, said roughly 20 people from his congregation took part in the building project.

"It's a giving thing for us," Rose said. "We realize that giving is more important than receiving."

To honor the milestone, Bryant Fowler and his wife, Lynette, received two Bibles from the volunteers and had their hands on the home's keys for just a few moments. The couple is expected to take ownership later in the week after their financing is finalized.

"I never dreamed I'd be able to build my own house," Bryant Fowler said. "I really don't know what to say. I can't wait to help make somebody else feel this great."