As a junior and the assistant lead on the Tiny Home Project at Kingwood High School, I’ve had the privilege of being part of an extraordinary initiative: building tiny homes for homeless veterans. This project has allowed me to develop practical skills and taught me crucial lessons about compassion, perseverance, and community. In this article, I’ll share my experiences and reflections on this life-changing project.

Our tiny home project was born out of a desire to address the pressing issue of veteran homelessness in our community. With the guidance of Coach Dick, our team of students embarked on a journey to design, build, and deliver tiny homes to those in need. From the start, I was struck by the enthusiasm and dedication of our team, which consisted of students from diverse backgrounds and skill levels. Throughout the project, I’ve learned numerous valuable lessons that extended far beyond the construction world. One of the most significant takeaways has been the importance of teamwork and collaboration. Working alongside my peers, we’ve developed a sense of community and trust, which has been essential in overcoming the challenges we’ve faced. Another crucial aspect has been the value of empathy and understanding. Interacting with the veterans who have received a tiny home has given me a deeper appreciation for the struggles they’ve faced and the resilience they’ve demonstrated. This experience has taught me to approach problems with a broader perspective, considering the complexities and emotions involved. From a practical standpoint, I’ve gained hands-on experience in carpentry, electrical, plumbing, and project management. These skills will undoubtedly benefit me in future endeavors, but more importantly, they’ve allowed me to contribute meaningfully to our community. Like any project, we’ve encountered our share of challenges. From navigating building codes and regulations to managing the physical demands of construction, there have been moments of frustration and uncertainty. However, it’s been incredible to see our team come together to overcome these obstacles, often finding creative solutions that have ultimately strengthened our project.

Building tiny homes for homeless veterans has been a transformative experience that has taught me the value of compassion, teamwork, and perseverance. As I reflect on our journey, I’m reminded that even the smallest actions can have a profound impact when driven by a commitment to serving others. I’m grateful for the opportunity to be a part of this project and look forward to continuing our efforts to make a difference in the lives of those who have served our country.

Thank you to our amazing Kingwood High School Tiny Home Team:

Sponsor/Teacher: Shellie Dick, Lead: Ethan Springer, Assistant lead: Landon Zamarron, Interior: Pierce Olsen

Members:
Ty Hemphill, Jake Boatright, Justin Sagebien, Jonah Anderson, Mateo Gonzalez, Jonathan Ankutse. Andre Coleman, Andrew Coleman, Carlin Moore, Juan Alvarez, Logan Welch, Aiden Igoe