CHARLENE WILKINS
For Potomac Local News
MANASSAS, Va. —Â There’s no place like home for the Young-Tejada family
On Thursday, May 16, Habitat for Humanity of Prince William County, Manassas and Manassas Park held its 14th Home Dedication in honor of the Young-Tejada family who partnered with Habitat to purchase a foreclosed home on Copeland Drive in Manassas.
Larry Young and his wife, Eva Tejada, applied for Habitat’s homeownership program in hopes of giving their 6-year-old daughter Ashly a decent, safe place to grow up. They both work full time but earn less than 50% of the area median income.
With the help of many volunteers, individual donations and generous corporate sponsorships, Habitat was able to rehab the Copeland Drive home, which the Young-Tejada family is purchasing through a low-interest mortgage that they can afford.
Habitat’s family partners are required to meet income criteria and provide “sweat equity” hours. Sweat equity may be accomplished with construction, providing food for volunteers, working in the Habitat office or Habitat ReStore and attending homeownership classes.
From February 16 to May 16, 98 unique volunteers logged 975 hours of labor during 29 total work days to rehab the single family home on Copeland Drive in Manassas. Homeowner Larry not only fulfilled his sweat equity hours, he logged the most volunteer hours at the Copeland Drive rehab project. He also volunteered at other homes as well.
Special guests at the Home Dedication included the Deputy State Director for Senator Tim Kaine’s office, Keren Dongo; Virginia Delegate Robert Marshall; Brentsville District Supervisor and Vice Chairman of the Prince William County Board of County Supervisors, Wally Covington; and Diana Meiser, aide to Gainesville District Supervisor, Peter Candland.
Major sponsors for the Copeland Drive rehab were Bank of America, SWIFT, and Centreville Presbyterian Church. Forest Park High School, Ashland Elementary and Rosa Parks Elementary schools brought wonderful gifts including a hand-painted bookshelf and a treasure box full of books for Ashly and many household items for the Young-Tejada family.
Habitat for Humanity is thankful to everyone who helped fulfill our mission vision of a world where everyone has a decent place to live. For more information about Habitat for Humanity of Prince William County, Manassas and Manassas Park, visit habitatpwc.org.
Charlene Wilkins is the commuincations manager for Habitat for Humanity of Prince William County, Manassas, and Manassas Park.
Recent Stories
Fredericksburg is set to enhance public safety by acquiring a vehicle barrier system to protect attendees at outdoor events from potential vehicle-borne attacks.
Entrepreneurs, non-profit directors, business leaders, ministers, life coaches, and more: Fredericksburg’s Most Influential Women Awards will once again recognize women who have made meaningful and lasting impacts on their communities.Â
The Stafford Race Series is set to kick off on April 5, 2025, with four races scheduled throughout the year, bringing together runners, families, and fitness enthusiasts for a community-driven experience.
VDOT Announces Road Work in Stafford, Fredericksburg, and Spotsylvania for March 9-15
McClung-Logan Equipment Company is hosting its 40th Annual Oyster Roast, a signature customer appreciation event celebrating tradition, community, and generosity.
This year’s milestone celebration will take place on Thursday, March 6th, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Fredericksburg Agricultural Fairgrounds.
The first Oyster Roast began as a fundraiser in 1985, led by White Oak Equipment founder Frank McCarty, to raise donations for an employee battling cancer. This turned into a time-honored tradition for individuals facing hardship.
A Night on the Riviera
Experience a magical evening at the Embassy of France with A Night on the Riviera, an event that will transport you to the glamour of the French Riviera while celebrating the vibrant spirit of Mardi Gras!
Indulge in an exquisite selection of French wines and champagne, paired with the finest French cuisine prepared by the talented Chef of the Embassy of France. Additionally, Chef Hugh Cossard will be carving ham live, ensuring freshness and exceptional flavor. Don’t miss out on the authentic French crêpes, made to order and sure to transport you straight to the streets of Nice.
For those seeking an extra touch of exclusivity, the VIP experience includes unlimited champagne, adding an extra layer of sophistication to this festive celebration.
Environmental Film Festival: Turtle Walker
DC Premiere.
In the late 1970s, Satish Bhaskar embarked on an epic journey along India’s coastline and the spectacular Andaman and Nicobar Islands, where he uncovered the vital nesting beaches of sea turtles. During his death-defying quest, he unravels mysteries
