COLUMBUS— Colorado County Habitat for Humanity celebrated the recent dedication of its 32nd Habitat home, welcoming Kristina Acevedo, a breast cancer survivor and devoted mother of five, into a safe, affordable home made possible through determination, community partnership, and countless acts of generosity.
For Acevedo, homeownership represents far more than owning a house—it marks the beginning of a new chapter filled with stability, hope, and opportunity for her family. After overcoming breast cancer while raising her children, she remained committed to creating a brighter future.
'My children and I were renting a small two-bedroom house that had a tarp over it and needed many other repairs,' Acevedo said. 'While we were grateful for a roof over our heads, I wanted more for my children - a safe, stable place where they could grow, make memories, and simply be kids without worrying about the condition of the home around them. Habitat made that dream a reality.'
Through Habitat's homeownership program, Acevedo completed hundreds of hours of sweat equity, participated in financial educa tion classes, and worked alongside volunteers who helped make her dream of homeownership a reality.
'This home represents strength, perseverance, and the incredible impact a community can have when people come together,' said Matt Hellwig, board officer Colorado County Habitat for Humanity. 'Kristina never gave up despite the challenges she faced. Today, her children have a place to grow, learn, and make memories for years to come.'
The home was made possible through the support of generous donors, dedicated volunteers, local businesses, churches, and community organizations that invested their time, talents, and resources.
Among those supporters was Columbus Glass, owned by Rusty Theut, who not only donated the bathroom mirrors for the new home but also volunteered on the construction site throughout the building process.
'Habitat is near and dear to me because, unlike so many charities, the Habitat process creates a true partnership between donors, volunteers, and the future homeowner,' said Theut. 'Over the years, I've thoroughly enjoyed the relationships and friendships that have come from being involved. It's a very special process.'
Construction was overseen by Steve Guidroz, owner of Steel Blue Construction, who served as the home's construction supervisor.
'It's been a blessing to be part of this project from the beginning,' Guidroz said. 'Watching Kristina's home come together and knowing her family will have a safe place to call home reminds us why giving back to our community matters. We're honored to play a small part in helping make that dream possible.'
Habitat homes are built through partnerships between future homeowners, volunteers, donors, and community supporters. Families purchase their homes through affordable mortgages with zero percent interest, creating long-term stability while strengthening neighborhoods throughout Colorado County.
With the completion of its 32nd home, Colorado County Habitat for Humanity continues its mission of building strength, stability, and self-reliance through affordable homeownership.
'My daughter said, 'This feels like home,' the moment we walked through the front door,' Acevedo shared. 'Whether you gave your time, financial support, skills, or encouragement, you have changed our lives. Thank you.'
