HANCOCK — A dedication celebration for a new Habitat for Humanity homeowner, Kathy Balog, will take place at 16 Sixth St., South Range, on Saturday, Apr. 17 at 1 p.m. The dedication will be held outdoors with masks and social distancing.

The social distancing protocols of the pandemic has meant that Copper Country Habitat for Humanity could not gather volunteers to build a house. Fortunately, in late 2019, CCHFH bought a home back from a Habitat homeowner who moved out of the area, so a house was available. Balog’s application for home ownership was accepted in early 2020 and she quickly started to accumulate the required 200 hours of sweat equity by working on cosmetic updates on the house.

Balog returned to the Copper Country in 2004 when she was working with AmeriCorps. “AmeriCorps introduced me to various organizations throughout the Copper Country,” said Balog. “For the past 16 years, I have been volunteering for many organizations, such as Little Brothers Friends of the Elderly, Community Action Agency, E.B. Holman School, Dial Help and Copper Country Humane Society. Volunteering brings joy to my life knowing I am making a difference in the community.” As for what this home means for her, Balog said, “Being a first-time homeowner will bring me comfort, happiness, and peace of mind knowing I will have a permanent place to live, to call home.”

Because of COVID-19 concerns, we will not be serving food. Instead, Copper Country Habitat for Humanity is asking for contributions (money or gift cards) that Kathy can use to celebrate when things are safer. If you would like to contribute, please drop off your contribution at the Habitat office, located at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church in Hancock, or mail it to: CC Habitat for Humanity, PO Box 231, Houghton, MI 49931.