Jack Kemp Memorial Build Event
(Click here for photo gallery)
“Those of
us who are blessed have an obligation to be a blessing to others,” - Jack Kemp
On
August 21, 2009, Habitat for Humanity of Eagle and Lake Counties
proudly hosted the Jack Kemp
Memorial Celebration. The well attended event included friends, family members
and admirers who gathered to pay tribute to the work of Jack
Kemp, honoring his commitment to Habitat for Humanity and his
lasting impact on affordable housing. The esteemed guests included Jack’s wife
Joanne, his son Jimmy and two grandsons, and many local political figures and
Habitat supporters. In addition, Ron
Terwilliger and John Cerniglia from Habitat International made a special trip
to attend the event.
Jack Kemp served on Habitat for
Humanity International's board for seven years and with his leadership the
nonprofit organization raised more than $700 million and built more than
150,000 homes for low-income families during his years of service..
Ron
Terwilliger, chair of the board of Habitat International, said Kemp was a
leader in the industry, leaving behind contributions that will be felt for
years to come.
The
ceremony was part of a much larger celebration that included a three day Memorial
Build. Jimmy Kemp and his sons, Jonah and Marco, spent time at the Fox Hollow
site helping build one of the homes. Jimmy said it was special to be there with
his two boys to show them all the hard work that goes into building a home, and
also the work it takes to care for people - undefined lessons Jimmy Kemp learned from his
father.
As a part-time resident of the Vail
Valley for many years, Jack Kemp was a beloved and active member of our
community. His spirit of service and commitment has had a tremendous local
impact. Furthermore, his contributions to
Habitat for Humanity have impacted the lives of thousands of families worldwide.
“There is a
kind of victory in good work, no matter how humble,” - Jack Kemp
A special thank you to the Kemp Family and Habitat for Humanity International for making this celebration possible!