Granted, it’s a poor play on words, but we use it merely as an attention-getter in pointing to last week’s announcement by Habitat for Humanity of Cleveland that what had become a nightmare — the organization’s aged, deteriorating storage trailer — is now a dream-come-true compliments of a Cleveland business that has operated here for 26 years.
We refer to Swing Transport, Inc., a trucking company operating off Old Tasso Road that has donated a 48-foot over-the-road trailer to the local Habitat affiliate. Habitat uses the trailers for storing tools, equipment and construction materials at construction sites, and then moves them on to new building sites.
The Swing trailer will likely remain in its current resting place for some time — Century Village, a 20th Street subdivision where more than 40 Habitat houses will be constructed by the end of 2013. Once the Century Village real estate has been filled to capacity, Habitat — and the organization’s new trailer — will move on to a new development site.
Like any vehicle or piece of equipment, trailers age and deteriorate. In its day, the existing Habitat trailer — also donated by a caring company — was new and fully capable of handling the security and storage capacity required of its owner. But years upon years of service gradually wear on all things material no matter their original quality.
Habitat for Humanity of Cleveland has been a part of this community for 20 years. Later this fall, the organization will partner with corporate sponsor Whirlpool to construct a Century Village house in observance of two occasions — the local Habitat affiliate’s 20th birthday and the 100th birthday of Whirlpool. It will be a grand 20-day blitz build which honors Habitat, Whirlpool and previous corporate partners who have had a hand in growing this worthy Cleveland organization.
Which returns us to Swing Transport, Inc., another corporate partner that has reached out to help this worthy cause. Remember, Habitat for Humanity would helplessly spin its wheels if not for the willingness of volunteers — individuals, groups and companies — to roll up their sleeves and get involved.
Local Habitat leaders have called volunteers the “lifeblood” of the organization.
We agree.
We see it every day. Each time a nail is pounded, families are recruited, an applicant is interviewed or funds are raised, it is being done mostly by volunteers. Remember too, Habitat volunteerism isn’t limited solely to construction work. If you can talk to people, read applications, answer the phone, arrange store shelves (at Habitat’s ReStore), perform clerical duties, provide legal and accountant services, conduct social work ... if you can do any of these ... then you can volunteer for Habitat for Humanity.
Driving nails, cutting boards and painting are great. But there’s plenty more.
Swing Transport has proven this true by being a donor — not through cash donations, but contributing in another fashion ... by donating an invaluable piece of equipment that will serve Habitat’s needs for years to come.
Swing terminal manager Ledford Leabow said what organizations such as Habitat for Humanity like to hear. So do we. “Swing Transport has always tried to work to make a positive impact in any community where we have a presence. Our company wants to be a part of, and to be involved in, our host communities. We’re a family-owned operation that believes in ‘home.’ That’s why we’re really proud to have the chance to help an organization like Habitat for Humanity.”
Well said.
It’s why Habitat for Humanity thrives in Cleveland and Bradley County.
Volunteers. They really grow on you!
Just ask Habitat.
