12th Annual Hearts & Hammers Gala
February 25, 2017
“For my whole life, I watched my parents work hard to provide a better life than what they had. My father worked two jobs. For 8 years, I only saw my dad on weekends.
We now have the same future as generation upon generation of other legal immigrants, and one day, we will be sitting among you, prepared to give back, with the full understanding that our country only fulfills its promise when everyone has a stake in it.
And I want to thank Morris Habitat for Humanity and all of you for providing a hand up to homeownership and new opportunities for us…”
Junior Rondon, Morristown HS Senior
Morris Habitat Homeowner Family Member
Keynote Speaker for 2017 Hearts and Hammers Gala
View the original article on the Habitat for Humanity website.
Recipients of the Habitat For Humanity Build It Now Award
The stormy weather on February 25th didn’t keep any of the 300 guests from enjoying the 12th Annual Hearts and Hammer Gala at the Meadow Wood Manor in Randolph, New Jersey. The celebration began with a sip of champagne and cocktail reception where guests greeted friends, old and new. Guests bid on over 125 Silent Auction items ranging from Disney tickets to a private in home concert by local artist, Mary Byrd. Dinner and dancing followed with live music by the band Escapade which includes the musical talent of Morris Habitat homeowner, Robert Rosenberger.
The evening program began with special acknowledgement of the Gala Home Sponsor, Schindler and Premier Sponsor, Bayer. Each of the Gala honorees, Sophie and Richard Palla, Jamie Rodgers, Valley National Bank and the Town of Morristown were featured in television interviews on the inaugural launch of Morris Habitat for Humanity’s Healthy Home Network TV. (Go to MorrisHabitat.org to view the channel and become a Broadcast Affiliate at no cost. To learn how, contact Kathy.Ritchey@morrishabitat.org )
This year’s distinguished honorees included our very own Jamie Rodgers for the Build it Now! Award.
“The Award recognizes the willingness to tackle challenging construction work regardless of weather conditions and to provide monetary support of Morris Habitat’s mission – NOW — not later. He and his company have volunteered at work sites whenever and wherever it was needed most. No one has a better understanding of the volunteer and financial resources required to Build it Now than Jamie Rodgers,” stated Blair Bravo, CEO, for Morris Habitat for Humanity.
Jamie was surrounded by Lakers old and new. Mentors, Doug Wilkins and Tim Flynn, along with family, were in attendance to honor his participation in such a worthy cause.
About Morris Habitat for Humanity:
Since 1985, Morris Habitat has served 400 households though home ownership opportunities, home preservation, and international home building programs. With support from donors and volunteers, Morris Habitat is 2 years into their bold strategic plan to help 230 families in just 4 years. In 2017, they will be partnering with 60 families – more than they have ever worked with in a single year — to provide safe, healthy and affordable homes.
