Homecoming Dream Becomes Reality

Alachua Family Becomes 185^th Habitat for Humanity Homeowner

ALACHUA ‒ For Shinda Ivery, a mother determined to overcome economic challenges, Oct. 30, 2024, was a special day. On the day that Alachua Habitat for Humanity celebrated the dedication its 185^th home, it was a first for Ivery and her family.

The dedication ceremony, held at 14263 N.W. 136^th Terrace, marked the culmination of an inspiring journey for Shinda Ivery, her husband and three sons, ages 18, 12 and 8. Shinda Ivery worked alongside Alachua Habitat for Humanity to fulfill her dream of homeownership. The Ivery home build brought together 129 dedicated volunteers who contributed 1,027 hours of labor, and a network of generous sponsors.

It was a stirring moment when the Ivery family received the keys to their new home and Shinda cut the bright red ribbon officially opening the home to her family. And it was especially meaningful for her, as it was Shinda’s dream to one day return, along with her family, to the community where she grew up. In fact, Shinda held out for an Alachua homesite even in the face of other areas being available earlier. For the entire Ivery family, the new home represents stability and a fresh start in the community they can all call home now.

On hand representing Habitat for Humanity was Habitat Executive Director Stevie Doyle and Family Services Director Kristine Thompson. Minister Ashley Hill of Consecrated Contemplations Faith Community offered the home blessing.

Special thanks were given to the City of Alachua for donating the lot and to grant partners including Florida Realtors Homeownership for All, State Farm, TD Charitable Foundation, Walmart Foundation, and the Hall of Framers 2024 Paddle Raise. Alachua city officials were on hand including Commissioner Dayna Williams along with Alachua Mayor Gib Coerper and Vice Mayor Ed Potts who spoke at the event, honoring the partnerships that made the project possible.

Alachua Habitat’s Homeownership Program has changed lives by empowering local families to achieve homeownership and offering them a stable foundation for the future.

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