In 2005, Hurricane Katrina changed everything for Kevin Anderson Jr. and his family. Kevin was only 12 years old when he and his family were forced to leave their home in New Orleans and were never able to return. In the years that followed, they moved from place to place and spent time in shelters before eventually settling in the Louisville area in search of stability.
Today, Kevin’s story has come full circle. A graduate of New Albany High School, Kevin now works as a welder at Stronghold. He has spent the last several years building a life in the area with his parents and two younger brothers. Family means everything to him, but he knew he was ready for a place of his own. That opportunity came through Habitat for Humanity of Metro Louisville.
See Kevin's Journey to Homeownership
Kevin was accepted into the Homeownership Program on his first try, and his journey began. At Raise the Roof, the walls went up and everything started to feel real. At the Ground Blessing, he stood on the site that would soon become his home, surrounded by Habitat volunteers, family, and friends as they came together to bless it. By Dedication, he was walking through a finished space, keys in hand. And at Closing, he was finally able to move in and begin his next chapter. Throughout the process, Kevin completed his required sweat equity hours, working side by side with Habitat staff, volunteers, and sponsors to help build not only his home, but others in the program as well.
To Kevin, home means family, peace, and a place to unwind. “It’s a big responsibility, but it’s a good responsibility,” he said. The first thing he plans to do in his new home is simple. Take a nap.
Kevin’s story is one of resilience and determination, but it is also about community. It shows what can happen when people come together to build something bigger than themselves.
This home was made possible thanks to the generous support of the PNC Foundation, Wells Fargo, Republic Bank, US Bank, Truist, Paducah Bank, and Stock Yards Bank & Trust.
Kevin's Story In the News
Kevin’s story was featured by Spectrum News 1, highlighting his journey to homeownership and the community supporting him behind it.
