In 2008 the Castillo family’s lives changed forever. It was that year that the family of five became Habitat homeowners where strength, stability and self-reliance are part of the package. Home is the key for families to create a better life. Instead of working two jobs and living paycheck to paycheck, paying a landlord rent, the Castillos paid their own mortgage on the way to a brighter future.
Fabiola, Jose and their three children have thrived in their home in Edwards. Their home is much more than shelter—it’s a place where hope comes to life and dreams become a reality. Carmen, the Castillo’s oldest child, received a full scholarship to CU Boulder. In December 2020 she decided to continue her education, and was accepted into Denver University’s Master of Social Work program.
A few years ago Carmen shared, “Habitat for Humanity has been the greatest blessing for me and my family. It has changed my life in many ways. To be honest I’m not quite sure what our lives would look like now if it wasn’t for Habitat, and it’s scary to think about. One thing I do know, however, is that when we got our home we got much more than just a place where to live. We get a sense of stability, relief and most importantly hope.”
Despite working for the Marriott for more than 20 years, a house felt out of reach for Jose and the Castillo family. The family had to move frequently to find an affordable rental unit. It didn’t feel safe or stable to Jose; never knowing the neighbors or worrying if they may have to move again, too many people sharing a too-small space.
When they moved into their Habitat home, each child has their own space to think, learn and dream. Jose is home more and has a goal to motivate and support their children. Jose says, “It gave me the opportunity to push the kids to dream big. I don’t know if I am wrong or right when I live my life by them; if they are happy, I am happy too. But when they suffer, their sadness is mine too.”
Since moving into the Habitat home more than a decade ago, there’s been much happiness. Home is the key for the Castillos, giving them the chance to chart a course to harness their dreams.
“I speak for my entire family when I say we are extremely grateful for everyone who makes Habitat for Humanity a possibility. May God bless each and every person who is involved in this amazing organization,” Carmen added.
The Castillo family is proof that hope, communities, home and you, together, can make so many lives brighter.