Plus: Thrivent Builds Mobile — A Truck Stop That Changes Lives

The Thrivent Builds Mobile tells the story of poverty housing, and then teaches you how to deliver the solution.

by Dobby Gibson

As they descend the steps, squinting into the daylight, you can see it on their faces and hear it in their voices. Even volunteers who have worked on Habitat for Humanity builds for years have been moved and inspired by what they've learned about the epidemic of poverty housing in the United States by experiencing the Thrivent Builds Mobile.

"I thought I understood the problem. I've worked on Habitat sites before," says Gene Smaciarz, director of creative services at Thrivent Financial for Lutherans, one of the first to walk through the big, red exhibit on wheels. "Now I have the big picture, and for me, the result has been an even stronger 'good feeling,' one you can get only by seeing the true impact you're making by volunteering."

The purpose of the Thrivent Builds Mobile is simple, but powerful, says Marie Uhrich, senior vice president of Communications at Thrivent Financial, who spearheaded the effort to launch the exhibit. "We want to tell stories of substandard housing in America in a way that motivates each of us to be a part of a solution that helps families achieve economic independence," she says.

The Thrivent Builds Mobile takes you beyond the statistics. You may have heard of American families living in dilapidated housing conditions, lacking basic utilities such as heat or clean water. But step inside the Thrivent Builds Mobile, and you'll hear the real human stories and feel the crippling conditions that threaten the well being of people living in communities like yours around the country. Finally, you'll discover the difference you can make by working with future Habitat owners to build simple, safe and affordable housing.

"So far, the response has been overwhelming," says Uhrich. "People have said the experience was a 'blessing'--it's been that transformative for them. By changing people's hearts and minds, the Thrivent Builds Mobile is going to help change people's lives."

The Thrivent Builds Mobile is traveling across the country, leading Thrivent Builds with Habitat for Humanity in its mission to build 10 to 15 safe, affordable homes in each Thrivent Financial region each year. The best part? Once you've visited and are inspired to help, you can begin making a difference on the spot. Enthusiastic and knowledgeable volunteers will show you how to put your time, talent and treasures to work to combat substandard housing in your community.

Follow online
You can learn more about the Thrivent Builds Mobile and follow its progress online at www.thriventbuilds.com/mobile.

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