Et cetera : NCCC’s Oak 4 Helps Habitat for Humanity Omaha

Team leader Rusty holds a board for a Habitat Omaha staff member cutting wood to frame a house.

Oak 4 enjoys donuts from the famous Harold's Koffee House, a stop during the "scavenger hunt."

By Jessica Beck

Oak 4 wraps up their final NCCC service project with Habitat for Humanity in Omaha, Nebraska. During their time in Omaha, Oak 4 made serious strides for the large Habitat location.

During their first week of service, the team helped organize and box up supplies at the old Habitat Omaha warehouse. The organization recently moved to a newer and bigger building, and has been working on transporting everything to the new location. While Oak 4 spent most of their time organizing and packing at the warehouse, some members were also able to work on various Habitat Omaha properties and houses. One group spent time installing insulation in a new home, while other members helped “winterize” houses that would be worked on next spring. Winterizing tasks included pouring anti-freeze down drains, removing water meters and draining water heaters.

During the second and final week serving with Habitat Omaha, Oak 4 started actually moving supplies from the old warehouse to the new one. They also helped assemble over ten carts that the staff members will use to move materials within the building.

Helping Habitat Omaha has been the top priority for the team. However they have also had multiple opportunities to explore the city with the help and guidance of their sponsors. One staff member put together a “scavenger hunt” for the team to do at the beginning of their project. Having them drive to different landmarks and places, Oak 4 was able to get a glimpse of the rich history and character of the community they are serving.