The local Habitat for Humanity chapter has received the 2024 Best in Durability award in a nationwide house design contest that was open to more than 1,500 Habitat for Humanity affiliates. The award was presented Monday during Habitat’s national 2024 Affiliate Conference in Atlanta.
“This is a very special award,” said Jeremy Stephens, Owensboro-Daviess County Habitat Executive Director. “For the last 2 years, Habitat Owensboro-Daviess County has been pushed by our Board of Directors to serve our community in broader capacity by producing more housing units annually, but also ensuring the units are resilient and durable so new Habitat homeowners have a dependable home for years to come. … Our organization is humbled to be recognized at the national level.”
The contest, sponsored by Simpson Strong-Tie, comprised 4 categories: Accessibility, Hazard Resiliency, Sustainability, and Durability.
The criteria of the award to determine a winner were design and supportive resources that produce a home better able to withstand damage from normal conditions, normal use, and natural aging. Habitat Owensboro-Daviess County took the design further by adding components from fortified roofing systems, ADA compliance regulations, and standards used for individuals to age with their home.
The award-winning design was made in collaboration with local architect, Paul DiGiorgio of Di Giorgio Design/ICF Home Design.
“It is an honor for me to use whatever God-given talent and experience I have toward the betterment of others,” DiGiorgio said. “Habitat’s mission aligns with principles I believe we were put here to fulfill. So I always seek opportunities to be involved, and I am always met by volunteers and workers who are so friendly and positive who truly glorify the mission in their actions.”
Stephens said the local Habitat makes a concentrated effort to show the value of investing in affordable housing within the community.
“However, recognition like this does not afford us the time to stop and celebrate. The need is too great to do so,” Stephens continued.
The local Habitat is on pace for a record year in construction and expects to complete double the amount of its typical annual housing unit builds. It is planning a community build on the east side of Daviess County, building an entire small neighborhood of homes.
