Habitat for Humanity of North Louisiana is thrilled to announce Sharonda Leonard as the newest future homeowner in Jonesboro, LA. Leonard, an esteemed educator at Jonesboro-Hodge Elementary School, was selected by the Board of Directors during their January meeting in Monroe, LA.
The exciting announcement was made in a heartwarming surprise during a school pep rally at Jonesboro-Hodge Elementary, where the entire student body and faculty gathered for the reveal. With the help of Principal, Danielle Copeland, Habitat for Humanity was able to orchestrate a memorable moment for Leonard, who was met with cheers and applause from her students and colleagues.
Adding to the celebration, Mayor Harris of Jonesboro attended the event, highlighting the community’s commitment to affordable homeownership. Mayor Harris remarked, ‘This is the first home build in Jonesboro in 12 years, and we are delighted that Habitat for Humanity has come here to help our community.’
Smurfit WestRock, the title sponsor of Leonard’s future home, joined in the celebration alongside Jonesboro State Bank, another proud sponsor present for the announcement.
“We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Sharonda Leonard to our Habitat family,” said Kathy Gardner, President/CEO of Habitat for Humanity of North Louisiana. “Her dedication to education and her community truly reflects the heart of our mission. It is an honor to walk alongside her on her journey to homeownership. We are also incredibly grateful to Smurfit WestRock for their unwavering commitment to this project. Their employees will be volunteering all the hours needed to build the home, in addition to providing the majority of the funding for materials.”
Smurfit Westrock, General Manager, Brett Tremblay stated, “it is our privilege to continue our support for this community and what better way to do it than to provide a home for one of our own. We are committed to Jonesboro Hodge and its citizens, and we are delighted to help in the build of this home by our own employees. We are also delighted that Habitat for Humanity has come to this community to help. We are proud to partner with Habitat.”
“Additionally, Jonesboro State Bank has been instrumental in this effort, generously providing essential funding to make this home a reality, continued Garnder. “We are so very grateful for their immense generosity,.”
Habitat for Humanity of North Louisiana remains committed to providing hardworking individuals and families with the opportunity to achieve the dream of homeownership. This project would not be possible without the generous support of sponsors, volunteers, and community leaders who continue to invest in creating a brighter future for families in north Louisiana.
About Habitat for Humanity
Driven by the vision that everyone needs a decent place to live, Habitat for Humanity began in 1976 as a grassroots effort on a community farm in Southern Georgia. The Christian housing organization has since grown to become a leading global nonprofit working in local communities across all 50 states in the U.S., and in more than 70 countries.
Families and individuals in need of a hand up partner with Habitat for Humanity to build or improve a place they can call home. Habitat homeowners help build their own homes alongside volunteers and pay an affordable mortgage. Through financial support, volunteering or adding a voice to support affordable housing, everyone can help families achieve the strength, stability and self-reliance they need to build better lives for themselves. Through shelter, we empower.
For more information on how to support Habitat for Humanity of North Louisiana, please visit hfhnl.org or contact our office at (318) 366-5352.