Catherin Skinner received her Habitat home in 2004.  In early 2005, her brother passed away. 

However, out of this sad event came a compelling realization for her.  Catherin’s family, many of whom she hadn’t seen in 25 years, came to Tucson for the funeral services and stayed with her in her new home. 

She was overwhelmed with memories of growing up with all the kids under one roof.  “It became home at that time,” she said. 

Even in tragedy, home is a place where a family can come together, and Catherin was proud to be able to offer that home.

“The Lord took me out of the pit and put me in my palace,” she said.  A woman of incredible faith, Catherin has taken opportunities given to her by Habitat and used them to create positive influences. 

“I found that I was capable of doing things I never foresaw myself doing,” Catherin said. 

Coming into the Habitat program, Catherin felt insignificant and had little to no self esteem.  As she worked through the requirements to receive her home, Catherin became surer of herself and now feels that she truly does matter, and is actively using her newfound confidence and awareness of people to help others realize this wonderful vision as well.

She works toward that vision by serving as a member of Habitat Tucson’s Board of Directors.

When asked to sum up her whole experience in one word, Catherin chuckles, pauses for a moment as then, with a smile, says, “Phenomenal.”

Adapted from a story by James Tschudy