Unity in the Heart of Austin (UHA) lists as one of their primary values, “to dedicate ourselves to loving service.” Since they began working with iACT’s Hands on Housing program about three years ago, we have seen them put this value into practice time and time again.

This congregation not only participates in Hands on Housing’s bi-annual repair events, Spring Blitz and Raise the Roof, but does so each time with a loving energy. During our most recent repair event, their team worked alongside members of the University of Texas Interfaith Council to complete vital repairs for our clients Rosa and Thomas. Said Rosa of the work that the teams did, “This was a heavenly act of kindness spearheaded only by a God of love.”

Just one month after the event, Hands on Housing put out an ask for teams to help hang lights for our elderly and disabled clients. Reverend Connor, UHA’s Social Action Coordinator, immediately sent an excited response. Within a week, Rev. Connor and Lara Coffer, the church’s treasurer, had been able to recruit 15 volunteers to serve our Season for Caring clients, Robert & Gina. Gina, who is in remission from cancer, is the primary caregiver for her son, who has MS. The speed at which the team was formed exemplifies what a giving spirit this community has.

As the volunteers put up lights and decorated the home, they sang cheerful songs and chatted with the homeowner. Many beautiful relationships were formed as individuals bonded over topics ranging from pets to shared experiences with illness and other life challenges. After the team finished decorating, Gina sent our Outreach VISTA a text reading: “This was a wonderful and uplifting feeling for Robert and myself…Robert is now sleeping very peacefully.”

At iACT, we work each and every day to break down barriers of all kinds, including racial, religious, cultural and socioeconomic. Having the support of communities such as Unity in the Heart of Austin is what makes this goal feel tangible. Through this dedication to service, they are making their name come alive: they are truly cultivating unity in our city.