Jim and Jo Ellen Dick

A homeowner since 1993, Jim and Jo Ellen “Jo” Dick stepped into homeownership during one of the most challenging seasons of their lives. 

Raising eight children in a rental home that was unsafe, overcrowded, and in disrepair, they worked tirelessly just to get by. Jim held both full-time and part-time jobs, sometimes even working for their landlord to cover rent. When a local teacher encouraged them to apply for Habitat’s homeownership program, they were hesitant and unsure they would qualify. Their acceptance came as both a surprise and a turning point.

As they completed their sweat equity hours alongside other Habitat families, Jim and Jo faced a unique challenge. A typical three- or four-bedroom home would not meet the needs of their large family. Habitat recognized this and partnered with them to build a home that truly fit, including additional bedrooms and a full bathroom in the basement. For the first time, their family had enough space, and more importantly, a place that felt safe. With an affordable mortgage, Jim was able to leave his extra jobs, and the constant fear of displacement was replaced with stability and peace. Their children thrived, and their home became a place of security, growth, and hope.

That hope carried far beyond those early years. After raising their family in the home for over a decade, Jim and Jo were able to build equity and purchase a new home with a conventional mortgage, something they once thought was out of reach. Today, their children are grown, and their family has expanded to 17 grandchildren. Reflecting on their journey, they remained grateful and passionate about sharing the impact of Habitat’s work, sharing, “It’s an honorable program that gives people hope.”