A 50th anniversary class reunion blossomed into a community-driven, grassroots collaboration with Habitat Capital Region last week. The Waverly Class of ‘75 Legacy Project brought WHS alumni together for a six-day build that transformed an empty foundation into a home with completed interior and exterior walls. Alumni worked side by side with Habitat staff, volunteers, and the future homeowners to bring their vision to life.
The effort delivered remarkable construction progress, but it also surpassed ambitious fundraising goals. With a last-minute $10,000 donation from an anonymous Waverly alum who built on site all week, the campaign beat its original target. In total, more than $50,000 was raised for the home build – a testament to the determination and generosity of the Waverly community.
“This week has been amazing and such an exciting time. Our home, being built by the Waverly Class of 75 and Habitat for Humanity staff, has overwhelmed us with joy,” shared Minerva, who watched her future home come to life. “The house is being built so fast, organized, and well-constructed with such an impressive turnaround.”
The Waverly Legacy Project owes much of its success to the dedication of its organizers. Waverly alum Mark Havitz was a driving force behind the effort, helping to coordinate volunteers, rally donors, and organize a special reunion ceremony at Waverly High School. He said of the build, “We were confident that things would go well, but build week exceeded our wildest expectations and dreams. We are hopeful that Waverly’s Class of 1975 has established a legacy blueprint!”
The Waverly Legacy Project proved that when a community comes together, extraordinary things can happen. Minerva and Mario’s home is now a symbol of what is possible when generosity meets determination, and the Waverly High School community can take pride in knowing their legacy will last for generations.
It takes the generous support of our corporate partners, volunteers, and community members to create opportunities for affordable homeownership.
You can join us in our efforts! Help us build affordable housing, safety, and long-term stability in your community by donating or volunteering:
