Great men achieve great things. But when they also recall their humble beginnings and reach out their hand to others growing up in similar circumstances, they become a hero.

Brian Waters grew up in Waxahachie, in humble surroundings with his grandmother, Maxine Wright. Although his grandmother did the best she could, she was never able to buy a home.

That inability to claim a permanent place made a deep impression on Brian. He went on to accomplish great things in football (see insert) but he also created the Brian Waters 54 Foundation. And that Foundation has agreed to cover the remaining costs on a Habitat for Humanity home located at 514 Highland Street in Waxahachie.

Brian will make an appearance at the groundbreaking ceremony for the new home, this Saturday, March 31, 2007 at 10 a.m. And he believes that this home will make a difference to a family in need.

Brian’s hope is that others follow his lead and give to Habitat for Humanity, either with monetary donations or through their volunteer efforts. For more information on Habitat for Humanity, call 972-937-2797 or email info@ellishabitat.org.

For more detailed information about Brian Waters, please visit http://www.kcchiefs.com/player/brian_waters/

NEW HABITAT FOR HUMANITY HOME STARTED TODAY
By Kathryn E. Eriksen
 

On a brilliant, sunny Saturday morning, a family in need became a family of hope. The newest project for Habitat for Humanity was begun on Saturday, March 31, 2007 at 514 Highland Street in Waxahachie. And it received a helping hand from the Brian Waters 54 Foundation, which its namesake established to make a difference in the lives of the less fortunate.

After an opening prayer, Habitat for Humanity President, Kathy Rushing, introduced the project. Mayor Joe Jenkins welcomed the spectators and reminded them of how proud he was of Waxahachie and organizations like Habitat for Humanity. Former Mayor, Chuck Beatty, reminded the listeners that providing homes for families helped the entire community. He then welcomed the guest of honor, Brian Waters.

Brian Waters, a three time Pro Bowler for the Kansas City Chiefs, spoke openly of his fondness for Waxahachie. Brian was grateful to be able to help a family through the Brian Waters 54 Foundation and hoped that his actions inspired others to become involved in Habitat for Humanity.

Habitat for Humanity was begun in 1969 and thrives today because of the dedication and assistance of numerous volunteers and supporters. The unique aspect of the Habitat program is that the homes are sold to the applicants, and financed with no-interest rate loans. The family works on the construction of their new home, and can feel proud to have a space of their own – that they pay for themselves. “It is a hand-up, not a hand-out,” states Kathy Rushing, the President for the Ellis County Habitat for Humanity.

Work will begin immediately on the home located at 514 Highland Street. Skilled laborers are requested to come on Tuesdays, and everyone else on Saturdays.

Volunteer labor, donated materials, and the “sweat equity” of the homeowner make the project possible. And because of the unselfish donation of time, talent and treasure, a family in need transforms into a family of gratitude.

Group photo one left to right: Brian Waters, ? , Chuck Beatty,
  Mayor Joe Jenkins, Kathy Rushing.