Gibson: “Proud to Call Oakwood Home”

Volunteers of Paulding County Habitat for Humanity and the new homeowners.

Volunteers of Paulding County Habitat for Humanity and the new homeowners.

The Paulding County Chapter of Habitat for Humanity is just in the finishing phase of the new house in Oakwood. The Gibson family was presented the keys to the home that had its groundbreaking back in October of 2015.

There were many people who came together to make this possible for Patricia Burch and Rusty Gibson and, of course, their son, Corbin. All in all there were over 20 people who made this house possible and many groups. The people and organizations that Habitat acknowledged included Darhl Fuller, Jerry Riggenbach, Terry Bidlack, Fenter Flooring, Oakwood Gleanor and Arbor, Carter Lumber of Columbus Grove, Black Swamp Equipment, Hanenkratt Plumbing, Habitat’s Master Carpenters, Oakwood Master Gardeners, T&C Concrete and Don & Perry’s Furniture. It was not only these places and people that gave their time, so did the family—Trish and Rusty. Rusty said he had over 200 hours of working on the house.

The dedication started a little after 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 16 on Third Street in Oakwood. The event was kicked off by President Laurie Lucas announcing Pastor Roger Emerson of Paulding UMC with the Unison Reading of Psalm 124:8; and 127:1. Following each statement of Emerson’s words, those gathered replied “We dedicate this home.”

Rusty Gibson, Trish Burch, Karen Leatherman

Rusty Gibson, Trish Burch, Karen Leatherman

“Rusty was a student of mine.” County Commissioner Mark Holtsberry continued, “Nobody is left behind in this county,” stating his appreciation for the hard work and good will of Habitat for Humanity. Looking at Rusty and Trish he said, “This is the first day of a new beginning.”

“We are proud to call Oakwood our home!” stated Rusty. He thanked everyone who worked on this simple, but very nice 3-bedroom home.

Darhl Fuller stated how the volunteers worked and also his appreciation for all that Nolan Shisler did until he could no longer help. He asked for prayers for him.

The Oakwood community and the county welcomed Trish and Rusty to their home. Organizations like the Paulding County Habitat for Humanity make things possible that otherwise would not be able. Great job to all who contributed!