Spencer, IA (SYP) – July 19-25, 2026

This week, our project site was energized by 23 Summer Youth Program participants from southern Indiana, working alongside our dedicated team of eight leadership volunteers. We were also pleased to welcome our incoming Project Director from Arizona. At the same time, we said heartfelt goodbyes to our Construction Supervisor and one of our Crew Leaders, whose contributions have helped move the project forward in meaningful ways.

Volunteers continued making steady progress on a variety of projects throughout the community. Work on a new home build included installing attic insulation and roof vents, setting kitchen cabinets, and laying flooring. Flood recovery projects remained a major focus, with crews framing walls, hanging sheetrock, mudding and painting, repairing stairs, installing flooring, and completing trim work with baseboards and doors. The team’s dedication and teamwork were evident across every job site

A major milestone this week was the completion of four additional jobs, bringing the season total to 13 completed projects. Beyond the physical work, volunteers experienced meaningful connections that reminded us why this ministry matters. One of our cooks shared a brief but powerful conversation with a Walmart cashier who spoke about overcoming addiction and alcoholism and finding hope and salvation through faith. During Wednesday’s program, a guest speaker shared his personal flood recovery story, describing how his family faced devastation when floodwaters struck while he was away from home, leaving his wife to navigate the immediate aftermath. These stories helped deepen our understanding of the challenges many community members continue to face.

Looking ahead, crews will continue working on seven open projects while remaining attentive to the stories, experiences, and needs of the homeowners and community members we meet along the way. As always, we are grateful for the opportunity to serve, build relationships, and witness resilience and hope in the communities where we work.