On Thursday, June 1 representatives from Komatsu Mining Corp in Milwaukee, WI were present to celebrate the dedication of a home for the 14^th Habitat homeowner they have helped since 2011.  Construction on the home started in September 2016 with a lot of help from Komatsu employees.  The home was built in the Washington Park neighborhood which is four minutes north of the National Avenue facility. 

While at the home dedication guests heard a few words from Milwaukee Habitat, joined in the blessing and dedication of the home and shared a few words for the new homeowner, Anthony.

Komtasu Mining Corp’s Vice President of Finance, Bryan Johnson, shared, “We are honored to have played a role in the construction of your home.  There were over 100 employees who contributed over 800 volunteer hours to help build this home.  In that time, they made new friendships and learned new skills, but most importantly, they got to know you and helped make your dream possible.”  As the two gentlemen shook hands Bryan continued, “achieving homeownership takes a lot of work and you did it, now you can see it was all worth it.”

Habitat homeowner, Anthony, did not grow up in a house but as a parent to two kids he decided to become a homeowner because he felt his children deserved better than he had growing up.  He also thought the home would be a great asset to be able to leave his children.   

Anthony is from Milwaukee and has worked for the City in the Department of Public Works for three years. He enjoys carpentry, landscaping, sports, watching movies, and spending time with his children. 

As he thought about his dream becoming a reality he shared, “I look forward to educating my kids about all aspects of homeownership. Not just the positives like having a yard and their own bedrooms, but what it takes to own and maintain a house.”   Adding, “I want them to learn about making repairs, landscaping, how to be prepared for unexpected situations, and, mostly, what a blessing it is to own a home.” 

Komatsu Mining Corp has been working with Milwaukee Habitat for Humanity since 2011.  The partnership includes a strong employee volunteer component as well as the investment on the part of suppliers who support Milwaukee Habitat through a golf tournament each August.  Additionally, employees are invited to donate through payroll deduction and this contribution is matched by the company.  Habitat for Humanity helps create a sense of stability and pride in a neighborhood, reducing crime increasing homeownership and property values.  The employees of Komatsu Mining Corp look forward both to the dedication of their 15^th home which will take place in the coming weeks, but also to the start of construction of two more homes this coming September.