CHICAGO – The Community of SS. Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church continues its ministry to advance the work of our Saviour to all people and especially to those in need. Project Diakonia is a ministry that brings together all of our Parish’s philanthropic activities and programs for the purpose of encouraging involvement in these programs and especially serving those who need it most.

Throughout the week of July 26-30, members participated in a home renovation project through Habitat for Humanity. Habitat for Humanity is a non-profit, Christian ministry that uses volunteer labor and tax-deductible donations to build and rehabilitate homes for poorly housed people with no way of buying a home on their own.

This particular home renovation project took place in Harvey, IL. Various groups of volunteers have participated in this project since October 2003. The home is approximately 114 years old and has been abandoned for 11 years. Joanne Redmond and her seven children will be the home recipients when the home is completed in December 2004.

Despite the fact that most of the volunteers from Sts. Constantine and Helen Church were unskilled laborers, everyone contributed in various tasks. It was a unique project that allowed the volunteers to interact with the home recipient family and their surrounding neighbors.

For more information on Habitat for Humanity Chicago South Suburbs, contact Kathy Stamp at (708) 957-1618 or Katestamp@aol.com.