DEDICATION #36– Can I Unlock the Door Now?/Lawanna Robinson
By Kathy Anderson

Nearly 100 people gathered inside the almost finished home of Lawanna Robinson on December 10, 2005, to dedicate Home #36 at 6609 Hoover Road, Davenport. Sponsored by Windmiller Design & Development, the Scott County Housing Council and Wells Fargo, the home was the first to be built outside of the urban center on a lot donated by the First Christian Church of Davenport.

The home was the first to be influenced by the creativity of Windmiller Design & Development. “Five years ago, we were inspired to do something for Habitat and the idea of the House Tour evolved,” said Craig Windmiller. The House Tour raised funds for HFH-QC at an open house of a custom-designed Windmiller home. Craig announced plans for another House Tour in the fall of 2006. “We’re just a little part of this and we’re glad to be part of this.”

This was the first home that the St. Ambrose University Habitat Group worked to build. “We never dreamed we would be able to be a part of this important work,” commented Craig Hurd, President of the St. Ambrose Group. “Thanks to Max Ewaldt, construction supervisor, since we had no idea what we were doing, and thanks to Lawanna for keeping a smile on her face when things didn’t always go well.“

Max Ewaldt used an accelerated build schedule to build Lawanna’s home. With groundbreaking on August 13, the home was finished in four months. “I gave a little direction to people to help them learn things,” commented Max, “it was a pleasure for me to help Lawanna get her own home.”

Lawanna received the keys to her home from Carol Cather, Family Support Nurturer, who has known Lawanna a long time. “This was meant to be,” said Carol. Lawanna could not hold back the tears as she thanked everyone who made her dream of owning a home come true. And her son could not hold back his excitement of receiving the keys to their new home. “Now, can I unlock the door?” he asked his mother.