Historic gift

In the cool news department, Habitat For Humanity received a $100 million gift from J. Ronald Terwilliger, an Atlanta builder. The gift will feature $30 million dedicated to fund the construction of new homes on a yearly basis for Habitats across the world, while $70 million will be used to provide micro-financing for low-income individuals to repair and upgrade their housing. The latter is truly an awesome idea in what is a remarkable gesture.

Spencer Frye, the executive director of Athens Area Habitat for Humanity, said the gift highlighted several positives for the organization ...

First, it shows the strength of Habitat for Humanity to be entrusted with this unprecedented amount of funding.

Second, I would hope that it really conveys the evidence of both a need for new homes as well as the need for low income home repairs which most of the money is being allocated for.

Lastly, it reflects a responsible philosophy of giving that many businesses, individuals, and religious organizations in Athens-Clarke County practice as having donated enough funding locally to construct 70 homes.

Frye was quick to point out, however, that this generous gift won't trickle down to the local affiliates like the one serving the Athens Area. And, while his organization has launched an initiative called Brush With Kindness that will provide the types of repairs, renovations and upgrades the gift is intended the fund, it will have to raise money locally in order to fund it.