URBANA, Ill. (WAND) - Suzie Medina can now officially call herself a homeowner after becoming one of the youngest homeowners in Habitat for Humanity of Champaign County history.
Medina first set her goal at the age of 14. But she never thought she'd complete it three years early.
"It means everything to me because this is all I ever wanted before I turned 26. Just to be able to do it three years early, it means the world to me," Medina told WAND News.
On Wednesday, the 128th home dedication took place for in Habitat for Humanity Champaign County.
Chad Hoffman, executive director of Habitat for Humanity Champaign County, said the program is all about being a hand-up not a hand-out. Those who qualify for the program help build their home from the ground up. Medina put in hundreds of hours to make her dream come true.
"She came in on build days. Took off work a couple days to come out on days during of the middle of the week to put up walls, put up siding and to work inside with painting," said Hoffman.
"I actually spent 300 hours doing a lot of this as well. And building on other homes like the one across the street," said Medina.
Hoffman added, with a growing need of affordable housing, Habitat for Humanity and Champaign County are aiming to change that.
"There is a need for housing that is affordable. There is a shortage of houses that people can purchase and own and make their own," Hoffman told WAND News.
"It means everything to the housing authority and our mission to continue to advance affordable housing. To be able to provide this type of service to the community," said Lily Walton, Executive director Housing Authority Champaign County.
Medina put in all the hard work for her son. He will turn two in November. Medina said running around in the yard is the first thing on his list.
"I know that he'll cherish this forever and be happy for me. Just excited to grow old here and have a backyard in to play in," said Medina.
Stabilization is what Medina is mostly looking forward to. She said the program changed her life forever. Now, Medina volunteers more, is involved in her community and has changed in other ways she just can't explain.
She was able to officially move in right after the ceremony on Wednesday.
"Thank God this day is finally here. I'm excited to be moving in," said Medina.
For more information about volunteering or the program, you can visit Habitat for Humanity Champaign County here.
