Albany Tech students, faculty and staff are building homes for families in need through a new partnership between the College and Habitat for Humanity.  Students enrolled in Albany Tech’s construction-related programs will manage and build at least one residential housing project annually in conjunction with the Flint River Habitat for Humanity organization.

“With this collaboration, our students will receive real-world experience in their respective fields,” said Dean of Academic Affairs, Emmett Griswold. “They will also perform a noble service to their community and begin the process of establishing relationships with the construction industry.”

“In return, Flint River Habitat for Humanity will gain a reliable partner in their mission to develop affordable and quality housing for low income families and obtain additional volunteers,” said Stacey Odom-Diggers, Director of Flint River Habitat for Humanity.

Under the direction of the Flint River Habitat for Humanity, Albany Tech faculty will assume the duties of project manager -- coordinating the work of architects, contractors, and student volunteers.

“Enriching the lives of people and families continues to be the mission of both Albany Tech and Flint River Habitat for Humanity,” said ATC President, Dr. Anthony Parker. “Both organizations provide an opportunity for southwest Georgians to improve their quality of life, and therefore this partnership makes perfect sense.”

Environmental Horticulture and Drafting students will also help design and landscape the Habitat homes.

In October, more than 15 Albany Tech students, faculty and staff grabbed hammers and paint brushes to kick-start the Habitat for Humanity home builds as part of World Habitat Day 2008.  The volunteers included the Titans men’s basketball team and members of the Phi Beta Lambda student organization. The volunteers built a home in south Dougherty County just miles away from the Albany Tech campus.