LaVerne Leven-Berry worked in the carpet business her husband owned for 40 years. The business closed after her husband passed away in 2010 from lung cancer and LaVerne struggled to maintain what she had. Shortly after his death, doctors discovered that LaVerne also had lung cancer and removed a portion of her lung. Not one to be defeated, LaVerne fought back to health. She now works as a home health aide, caring for two individuals.
There’s a story behind every Habitat project
LaVerne and her husband bought their Woodbridge home 38 years ago. She raised two sons in the home and now watches three of her grandchildren in the mornings. LaVerne manages to work more than 50 hours a week in the healthcare business and still keep an impeccably neat and tidy home and lawn. She feels that keeping the home properly is an important legacy to the tireless energy and effort her husband made. She’s grateful for his pursuit to purchase the home and maintain it all those years.
What Habitat will do
LaVerne reported that woodpeckers were pecking the siding on the home. Habitat sent a pest control expert to the site for an evaluation. The expert determined that the paint may be peeling from the aluminum siding on its own without influence from the birds. However, woodpeckers are definitely pecking holes into the woodstove chimney, which is shiny. Apparently, the birds find their reflection very attractive. Habitat will treat the chimney with a surface product, will repaint the aluminum siding, will replace a wooden fence that is in disrepair, will replace a non-functioning water heater and will replace broken glass in a bay window.
How you can help LaVerne and others
We invite you to work with us to provide safe and affordable housing in Prince William County, Manassas and Manassas Park. Habitat’s Home Repair programs, including its Home Preservation program, rely on your support through donations and volunteer time. Your generous donations make it possible for us to purchase the needed materials and tools for repairs. Your volunteer hours help us save money on labor.To give and to volunteer, click the links below. To watch the repairs as they progress, check in frequently by clicking the Family Story button below.
Recent Stories
Public safety officials recently gathered at Dunkin’ Donuts locations from Stafford County to Manassas to meet with community members in two separate events fostering engagement and conversation.
In Stafford County, Dunkin’ and Baskin-Robbins celebrated the grand reopening of their Next Generation restaurant on Warrenton Road with a unique community event on Saturday, February 8. Customers enjoyed free medium hot or iced coffee while participating in fun activities, including a prize wheel, face painting, and a visit from Dunkin’s mascot, Cuppy. As part of the event, local franchisee Pravina Bhalani hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony and presented a $500 donation to the Stafford County Fire and Rescue Charitable Foundation.
Stafford County Fire and Rescue expressed their appreciation, stating, “Thank you to Dunkin’ (Warrenton Road) for the invite to their reopening and thank you for the generous $500 contribution to the Stafford County Fire and Rescue Charitable Foundation.”
The Dale City Farmers Market is open Sundays year-round, rain or shine! From December to March, shop from 10 AM – 1 PM at 14090 Gemini Way, Dale City.
Discover a variety of local vendors offering fresh produce, baked goods, specialty foods, and more! Whether you’re looking for farm-fresh ingredients, handcrafted treats, or unique artisanal products, the Dale City Farmers Market has something for everyone.
If you’re a Lab lover, Raven is waiting for you! This one-year-old Labrador mix is full of energy and enthusiasm, just as you’d expect from her breed. She has experience living with kids, cats, and dogs, making her a great fit for an active and pet-friendly household.
Raven was returned to the Spotsylvania County Animal Shelter because she does best in a home with a fenced yard. Without one, she has a tendency to wander, so her ideal home includes a secure space or committed leash walks.
Dr. Janet L. S. Brown-Page has been appointed to the Central Rappahannock Regional Library Board of Trustees to represent Stafford County. She replaces Mary Becelia, who was removed in 2024. The Board oversees library policies across Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Stafford, and Westmoreland counties. Brown-Page, a retired federal senior manager and mediation expert, brings extensive experience in human and community relations. Her appointment follows the censure of Stafford Supervisor Monica Gary, accused of political maneuvering in Becelia’s removal.
Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
Experience the passion and drama of Puccini’s “The Girl from the Golden West”.
Featuring special guest musicians from The Chesapeake Youth Orchestra,
this performance brings Puccini’s masterpiece to life with an extraordinary cast.
