Pictured is Jeff Blair with First Century Bank, alongside Ayden Brock, Dae’Shanae Brock, Ariel Brock, Deon Brock, and Deon Brock Jr.
This past Friday, we gathered for an extraordinary home dedication. While every home dedication holds deep meaning for our Jackson County Habitat for Humanity family, the commitment of the Brock family touched our hearts in a uniquely powerful way.
From the beginning, the Brocks became integral to our Habitat family. Their commitment, humility, and genuine joy made each ReStore volunteer day and build day a blessing. Through every hour of sweat equity, they brought their hands and hearts, and that energy was contagious.
Mrs. Brock’s deep connection to our mission is so strong that she is now a member of our newly formed Outreach Committee. Her voice and insight are already helping us grow and connect even more with the community we serve. It’s clear that their family hasn’t just built a house with us; they’ve built a legacy of compassion and service that will live on in the lives they continue to touch.
Friday’s dedication was filled with love, laughter, and tears. We came together to surround the Brock family with celebration, encouragement, and blessings. At the same time, we paused to honor the lives and legacies of two giants: President Jimmy Carter and our beloved board member Diana Wright. This was our first dedication since their passings, and we felt their spirits with us, cheering on this beautiful moment of hope and new beginnings.
Our affiliate was also overjoyed and deeply moved when our community partners showed up to support and celebrate the Brock family. Organizations like the Boys and Girls Club, Publix Charities, The Unique Club, and D&J Plumbing came not only with words of encouragement but also thoughtful gifts. This powerful gesture reminded the Brocks they were not alone. These acts of kindness helped make it clear that this family is surrounded by a community that believes in them, supports them, and cheers them on every step of the way. We were honored to have FCB, our premier sponsor, hand over the key to the Brocks. We want to say thank you for your incredible support! We’re also deeply grateful to our board, sponsors, and volunteers, who make this mission possible.
One of the most touching moments of the day came when Guy, our Construction manager who beautifully led this home build, decided that the ceremonial hammer we traditionally present to new homeowners should be extra special. He gave the Brocks the same hammer Mrs. Brock used throughout her volunteer hours. That simple yet profound act symbolized the love, labor, and faith she poured into the process. The compassion and mutual respect shared between Guy and the Brock family is heartwarming, a true reflection of the partnership model.
To the Brocks: To say it’s been an honor to walk beside you on your journey to homeownership doesn’t do it justice. You have shown us what a true partner family partnership looks like. You’ve given it your all, from every phone call, Zoom meeting, and in-person session to your participation in financial education, HUD-certified counseling, and even craft days.
Your faith, attentiveness, gratitude, and care for others exemplify why we do what we do. God brought your family into our affiliate’s path for a reason. We needed a partner family like you, just as much as you deserved a safe and stable home.
I’m proud to have witnessed your journey and your family grow over the past year. Never stop being sponges, soaking up every bit of knowledge you can. And please, take time to bask in this moment truly. You deserve all the good that has come your way and all the blessings still ahead.
“Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us.” – Ephesians 3:20 (NKJV)
With love and admiration,
Tyonna Harry
Director of Outreach
Jackson County Habitat for Humanity
