Smith-Dahmer Associates Joins Habitat for Humanity and Whirlpool Corporation in Annual “Building Blocks” Project

“Grueling;” “incredible;” “inspiring.” These are a few of the words Smith-Dahmer Associates used to describe their recent week teaming with Whirlpool on their annual Building Blocks Habitat for Humanity project.

According to Smith-Dahmer Associate, Valerie Crosby, “It was such an incredible experience . . . it took us out of our element and pushed us all beyond what we’re used to doing – individually and as a team.”

In just five days, the group roofed, sided; painted and landscaped a house in Dallas, Texas. The homeowner - Tigist Eshetu single mother and recent emigrant from Ethiopia - worked alongside the team.

For SDA research planner Steve Wells, the highlight of the week was watching the homeowner marvel day by day as her house quickly took shape. “It was nothing short of inspiring,” explained Steve. “It really hit us at the dedication ceremony after the house was built when the presenter said, “Tigi, ‘welcome home.’”

At the end of the week, Tigi invited the Whirlpool/Smith-Dahmer team to share an Ethiopian dinner and be among her first house guests.

Tigist Eshetu and her children

The Eshetu House team

Siding work

The window crew with Tigi