This summer marked an exciting milestone for Habitat Northern Muskegon: finishing the first home and the opportunity to welcome new homeowners! 

We celebrated the occasion with two special events. On a beautiful July day, we began with a private home dedication for the family and their loved ones, including grandmas and grandpas, aunts and uncles, and lots of cousins. New homeowners Ashley and Jordyn, along with their five children, spent the morning exploring every corner of their new home and imagining the memories they will create there.  

Later in the day, we hosted community supporters and partners for a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate this achievement together. 

About the Homeowners 

For Ashley and Jordyn, moving into their first home comes after six years of renting, saving, and building their credit. 

Having heard a lot about Habitat for Humanity over the years, they knew where to turn when they felt ready to pursue homeownership. 

Ashley shares, “Homeownership will have a huge impact on us! We will be closer to our kids’ school, they’ll have a yard to play in, and we can actually grow gardens in our new forever home.” 

“We can also hang nails up for pictures and decorations and so much more with the house. But the boys, besides loving the idea of having a backyard, are most excited about us eventually and finally getting our first pet! We want a forever home where the kids will grow, move out, and they’ll always know where to come back to. That’s the best feeling in the world!” 

As they get ready to settle into their new space, Ashley and Jordyn are looking forward to hosting sleepovers for their kids, having lots of family and friends over, and eventually finishing the basement. 

“Homeownership means the world,” Ashley said. “It means freedom for us to make changes and do what we want to do. A house to grow in. Our own house to take care of.” 

Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony 

After the dedication, community members gathered to celebrate a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Many attendees had been part of the journey from the beginning, including the groundbreaking event held in December.  

Guests toured the home, learned more about Ashley and Jordyn’s story, and heard remarks from community leaders and partners: Jay Kilo, Muskegon City Commissioner; Jennifer Hodges, Muskegon County Housing Coordinator; and Lisa Tyler of United Way of the Lakeshore. 

This celebration was also an opportunity to recognize the community support that made this project possible. Every volunteer, advocate, and partner played a role in helping Ashley and Jordyn achieve homeownership and in creating future opportunities for other Muskegon families. 

What’s Next in Muskegon 

With the first home complete, we’re already looking ahead to the next chapter. 

Construction is officially underway on three new homes on Catherine Avenue. Foundations are poured, and framing is underway. The homes are expected to be finished in winter of 2027, creating even more pathways to affordable homeownership in Muskegon County. 

Want to stay up to date on Habitat Northern Muskegon’s work? Subscribe to our quarterly e-newsletter and follow us on Facebook for updates on current projects, volunteer opportunities, upcoming events, and more!