YPSILANTI, Mich. – Volunteers rolled up their sleeves in Ypsilanti’s West Willow neighborhood, cleaning yards and making exterior repairs for residents in need as part of Habitat for Humanity of Huron Valley’s Rock the Block series.
Sharon Lee was among the residents who received help during the event.
“Due to my health issues, I’m not really able to get out and get it done, so I really need the help,” Lee said.
Habitat for Humanity of Huron Valley answered the call — making sure Lee’s home and many others received the repairs they needed. The event is aimed at revitalizing the community.
“It’s a blessing,” Lee said.
More than 100 volunteers show up for West Willow
More than 100 volunteers took part in the effort, spending hours sanding, trimming bushes and picking up sticks throughout the West Willow neighborhood.
Claire Simpson, home improvement program coordinator for Habitat for Humanity Huron Valley, said the turnout was overwhelming.
“It means everything. It’s so exciting,” Simpson said.
Volunteer Nathan Ehrlich said the work is deeply personal.
“The reason I got involved is, you know, I’m never going to save a life. I’m not a doctor or anything like that, but what we do here at Habitat really does change lives,” Ehrlich said.
Ehrlich added that witnessing the before-and-after transformations is always a highlight — for volunteers and homeowners alike.
“You can see how appreciative they are, and it gives you a good feeling,” Ehrlich said.
Series continues through summer
The West Willow event marks just the kickoff of Rock the Block. The series is set to continue throughout the summer in Ypsilanti.