Oct 32 min read

Dreams of Homeownership: Annual Dream Street Celebration

The dream of homeownership is about to come true for NeighborWorks Great Falls' newest group in the Owner Built Homes program. Known as Meriwether Group Five, these 10 families are expected to be done building in late Spring of 2025. On September 25th, we were able to celebrate their hard work and progress the group has made building their own- and each other's- homes from the ground up. Once completed, this will mark 185 affordable homes completed through the Owner Built Homes program, and 185 first-time homebuyers.

This program is part of the national Mutual Self-Help Housing program, funded by USDA Rural Development. The key component of the program is the "sweat equity" which is what makes the homes affordable. The families in the build dedicate over 1,200 hours of time and effort, working through all weather conditions. No one can move in until all 10 homes are completed, which not only teaches valuable construction skills, but also creates a sense of teamwork and community.

"Owning my own home was a distant dream, seemingly unattainable with the weight of my past," said Greg Schoby, future homeowner. "Mental health is no joke, and I often wondered if I was doing enough for myself and for my son, Tristan. I wanted so desperately to be the father he deserves, especially after failing my daughters and not doing what i should have done then as a father. Yet, through all the struggles, I found my drive—Tristan became my reason to keep pushing forward. Fast forward two years, and here I am, standing in front of you, some of the best people I know to this day standing here, looking at a hole in the ground that I started to dig myself—the first step towards a new beginning. That hole represents more than just dirt; it is a new venture, a goal achieved, and a place for Tristan and me to call home. Being able to call this place my home and share this experience with my son is truly a dream come true. That’s why we call this Dream Street—because it all started with a dream, and together, we’re making it a reality."

Thank you to everyone who came out and showed support for these families. To learn more about the program, visit https://www.nwgf.org/ownerbuilthomes