Celebrating Homeownership Month in Grundy County

A Community Gathering Filled with Hope, Partnership, and Possibility

On Tuesday, June 16th, our community gathered at our properties on Colony Road for a joyful celebration of Homeownership Month — a moment that honored not only the proclamation issued by Mayor Michael Brady, but the people, partnerships, and progress shaping the future of housing on the South Cumberland Plateau.

Mayor Brady’s proclamation affirmed something we know deeply: homeownership strengthens families, stabilizes neighborhoods, and builds the foundation for long‑term community health. His words recognized the hard work happening across Grundy County to expand access to safe, stable, and affordable homes — and the shared commitment it takes to make that possible.

Mortgage professional Justin Lusk spoke about his experiences working with aspiring homeowners and the deeply impactful work of helping to prepare the next generation of families desiring to make Grundy County their home. His reference to the team of people that must work together to make housing a reality emphasized the necessity of collaboration across all of the disciplines involved in housing development that is affordable.

Putting working families in homes requires collaboration, and this event brought together many of those that are key to achieving that goal. It was so encouraging to hear from Mayor Brady, to see Mayor Meeks from Coalmont, and to share with industry professionals and partner organizations. Only by working together can we make the dream of homeownership a reality and strengthen our community in the process.
— Mike Keen, Chair of The Housing Hub's Board of Directors

Guests also had the opportunity to tour two new homes, in different phases of construction, built through the Housing Hub’s collaborative model. These homes represent more than construction milestones; they reflect the determination of local families, the dedication of our workforce trainees, and the generosity of partners who believe in creating pathways to opportunity.

At the event neighbors, partners, and supporters gathered to celebrate what home means here: belonging, dignity, and a place to grow. We heard quotes from first‑time homebuyers who described homeownership as “a fresh start,” “a chance to plant roots,” and “the moment everything finally felt possible.” Their words reminded us why this work matters and why we continue pushing forward.

It’s always great to see The Housing Hub’s ingenuous model in action. The house is gorgeously built and designed with a large, beautiful kitchen and plenty of room for a family.
— Mandy Boldin, South Cumberland Community Fund's Community Development Director

The Homeownership Proclamation Celebration was a beautiful snapshot of what can happen when a community comes together — public leaders, nonprofit partners, builders, donors, and families — all united around the belief that every person deserves a safe place to call home.

As we continue building homes and expanding opportunities across the Plateau, we are grateful for everyone who showed up, spoke up, and celebrated with us. Your presence strengthens this movement and fuels the work ahead.

Here’s to the families building their futures, the partners investing in hope, and the community that continues to rise together.

Next
Next

Building Even More Opportunity: House #3 Is Underway