Teisha didn’t know where to begin on her journey toward owning a home. “Working and trying to find a way to own my home seemed like I could never achieve my goal,” she said. For years, Teisha found herself renting places that were overpriced and underwhelming. She dreamed of a place to call her own, a space where she and her family could feel secure. But the path forward always felt just out of reach.

That changed when she discovered Iowa Heartland Habitat for Humanity.

“Iowa Heartland Habitat for Humanity has solved so much in my life,” Teisha said. Through the homeownership program, she not only began working toward becoming a homeowner but also gained the tools and support to grow in other areas of her life. She learned how to build her credit and focus on her savings.

“I don’t have to worry about how this is going to happen or when I’ll get a house,” she said. “When I felt like giving up, Iowa Heartland Habitat answered my prayers. Now, I have a home for my family—one that we’ve helped build.”

Teisha’s journey hasn’t been easy, but she’s never been afraid of hard work. For seven years, she’s been a Guest Service Leader at Kwik Star. She also owns and operates her own business, Unique Looks Hair Salon, where she mentors and supports aspiring cosmetologists and barbers through apprenticeships and by providing them with workspaces to grow.

Now, thanks to the homeownership program, Teisha is not only building her home but also building a stronger future for her business and her family.

“I look at everything and I see change. I see light,” she shared. Teisha wants others who feel stuck or hopeless to know that they’re not alone—and that the homeownership program is more than just a path to a house.

“It’s the best move I’ve made,” she said. “Knowing someone is there who cares and will guide you through—pray, ask for what you want, stay motivated, and never give up. Hard work really does pay off.”

To the donors, volunteers, and staff members at Iowa Heartland Habitat for Humanity, Teisha has a message:

“You are my motivation and have changed my life for the better. Iowa Heartland Habitat has become my family. Everyone is so warm and welcoming. They make scary moments—like buying a house—easy to handle. This is something I never thought I would accomplish, and now it’s my reality. I feel like a weight has been lifted.

From the bottom of my heart—thank you.”