Who Are Our Homebuyers? Paralegals
Precious is a 2009 Habitat homeowner with her son, Karachi. She is a paralegal for the State of Indiana in the Department of Natural Resources. In the early 2000’s, Precious was living as a renter experiencing rising prices even then. She was in a place where she had to spend 50% of her income just to live in a clean, safe apartment. Looking for something permanent and affordable, she came across Habitat in 2009.
Equipped with new knowledge about budgeting and home repair, Precious went on to build her home alongside Habitat volunteers. She also gives thanks to her sister who helped her complete the 300 sweat equity hours (now known as partnership hours).
“Habitat is the best thing I’ve ever done. I’ve never felt so accepted and appreciated. I have a network of people.”
Precious found that homeownership empowered her to pursue new goals and opportunities. In 2014, she enrolled at Ivy Tech and received a degree in Human Services. More recently in 2024, she completed her paralegal certificate which opened the door for a promotion at her job. She now feels more financially responsible as she continues to grow her savings account. She even took on renovation projects since moving in. She now has a fenced in yard, a porch swing, new floors, and repainted walls.
The biggest influence she attributes to her home is the positive improvements with her son, Karachi.
“We had stability and an independent mindset.”
Precious shares that, “Karachi has excelled so much in life.” From being diagnosed with autism, Karachi was allowed to flourish in a space he could call his own. She also gives thanks to her husband Paul, who continues to be a major part in Karachi’s life. Karachi now lives on his own in an apartment and works at Community North Hospital.
Not only did Precious gain stability through homeownership, but she also found it at her workplace. Starting off in a temporary position, she has seen three promotions since starting at the state 25 years ago. “This is the most money I’ve ever made.” She appreciates how stability at home and at work gives her financial freedom.
