Latest Habitat home custom made as handicapped accessible

Last week, Derek Beckjordan and the Northfield community were invited to look around Beckjordan’s new home, which is located in one unit of a quad home.

Beckjordan, who suffers from multiple sclerosis, is the latest recipient of a Rice County Habitat for Humanity home. A dedication ceremony was held at the unit to thank the community for its hands on help and to allow Beckjordan the opportunity to express his gratitude.

“We have fitted his unit to be handicapped accessible so he can be independent in his own home as his condition worsens,” said Jodi Wagner, community engagement coordinator, Rice County Habitat for Humanity.

Wagner said there are so many people that not only volunteer to help swing a hammer on the job site, but many more volunteers that serve on committees, the board as well as our donors.

“We are also very grateful to our local subcontractors that support our mission. We are a small staff and cannot do this without every single person that is involved,” said Wagner. “We are looking forward to our next builds; six new single family homes to be built in Faribault. As we continue to move forward and push our volunteers and supporters to build more and more each year, the need for affordable housing keeps growing faster.”

Beckjordan told those assembled at the house dedication ceremony that he wanted to express his deepest gratitude “for the incredible gift of a new home” that is handicapped accessible. After being diagnosed with MS in 2019, he said words cannot fully capture the “overwhelming sense of joy and relief” he feels after his life was drastically changed.

“The journey to homeownership has been a challenging one, but your dedication, hard work and generosity have made this dream a reality,” said Beckjordan. “Every nail hammered, every brushstroke, and every moment spent building this house was a labor of love that has forever changed my life. Habitat for Humanity is a blessing.”

Beckjordan said that he will cherish this home home and the memories created here. “Your efforts have given me more than just a roof over my head; you have given me a sense of belonging and security.”

Additionally, he said that “this home is more than just a structure; it is a foundation for a brighter future. It is a place where I can build memories, find peace and grow with my little pug Dazey Mae.”