Empowering Families: How a $15,000 Grant from Wells Fargo Transformed Lives through Volunteering

Building a home is more than just constructing walls and a roof. It’s about creating a foundation for a better future. At HOME, Inc., we understand this deeply, and strive to empower our families to be set up for success and supported every step of the way. This year, we received a $15,000 volunteerism grant from Wells Fargo that allowed us to further our impact for two families who purchased affordable homes through our homeownership program.

We held two full-day fence builds, one in September and the other in October, where volunteers gathered to bring this project to life. The turnout was inspiring, with volunteers from Wells Fargo and other organizations like the Professional Women in Building, Bankers Trust, Iowa State Bank, Amazon, Sammons Financial Group, and Webspec coming together to support our mission with their volunteer efforts to help transform lives.

Volunteers from Wells Fargo working to nail on fence pickets to build a fence for a HOME, Inc. family

Bringing People Together for a Common Goal

The first Fence Build happened in September for our 2nd Annual Day of Service! A dedicated group of volunteers came together to build a sturdy fence for a local family of four. The project aimed to secure their yard, providing a safe space for their children to play freely.

The day started with Clint Webster, our Director of Property Development, walking all the volunteers through the fence building process and how the day would go. With a clear plan in place volunteers got to work. They worked tirelessly, digging post holes, setting the fence posts, and attaching panels. As everyone pitched in working effectively and thoroughly to ensure a safe environment for the children, the atmosphere was filled with laughter and camaraderie.

Once the fence was completed, the family expressed their deep appreciation. The children were excited to play, and the parents felt relieved knowing their yard was now safe. The volunteers celebrated their hard work, proud of the difference they had made in the lives of this family. The volunteers demonstrated that when people come together with a common purpose, they can create lasting change and ensure the safety and happiness in their community.

Volunteers from Wells Fargo and partner organizations working together to build a fence for a HOME, Inc. family

The second Fence Build took place on a cold day in October, and once again we were joined by another incredible group of volunteers, each eager and enthusiastic to contribute their time and effort to a meaningful cause. This dedicated team was ready to get their hands dirty in the rewarding experience of building a fence for a family of eight.

Some volunteers were seasoned builders, while others were novices, but all shared a common goal: to make a positive impact in the lives of the family who would benefit from the new fence. The family, the parents and two of their sons, participated in the project by assisting with building and painting. They were excited and grateful for all the volunteers helping with the fence construction and for the fence itself, gifted through the grant from Wells Fargo.

Once given their instructions the team divided into smaller groups, each tackling different aspects of the fence construction. Some volunteers focused on digging post holes, while others worked on securing the panels and pickets in place. The teamwork was rocking and rolling with everyone supporting one another and celebrating small victories as the fence began to take shape. It was inspiring to witness how strangers quickly became friends united by their shared purpose. The energy was high throughout the day and when the fence was done, the sense of accomplishment was visible on everyone’s faces.

Volunteers from Wells Fargo and partner organizations working together with the family to build a fence.

The Impact of the Wells Fargo Grant for the Families

The $15,000 grant from Wells Fargo was a critical resource that enabled HOME, Inc. to plan and execute these Fence Builds. Thanks to Wells Fargo's grant, we were able to offer these fences at no cost to the families. The funding enabled us to acquire all the necessary materials and tools for the project. It also helped cover logistical expenses, ensuring the volunteer days proceeded without issues. The dedication and effort of the volunteers were crucial in making this possible.

Fences are more than just physical barriers -- they provide privacy, security, and a sense of ownership for homeowners. For families moving into their new homes, these fences symbolize stability and pride.

Both families had inquired with HOME, Inc. about purchasing a fence for their new HOME, Inc. homes. Both families, concerned about their children's safety, were exploring options to learn if they could afford a fence and determine if it was feasible to buy one soon. When we received the grant and informed both families that they would receive a fence at no cost, they were thrilled and extremely grateful! These fences will stand as a reminder of the kindness and effort of many people who believe in affordable housing and making a difference in their community.

We are so grateful to Wells Fargo for their generosity, partnership, support, and for the hours their volunteers gave to make this project possible. The support we received from Wells Fargo reinforces the belief that when organizations come together with a shared purpose, they can create meaningful change. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Wells Fargo -- their dedication to our mission, along with the hard work of their volunteers, played a vital role in making this project a success, and we look forward to more collaborations in the future.

How You Can Get Involved

If this story inspires you to get involved and make a difference in your community, there are many ways to support HOME, Inc.:

• Join our volunteer team!

• Donate to help us create more access to homeownership and housing stability in Des Moines.

• Advocate for policies that support affordable housing.

• Spread the word about our programs and work.

  
  

Every action helps build stronger, healthier communities. This project shows how targeted support and volunteer spirit can create lasting change. We look forward to continuing this work, and invite more people to join us!