“As one of the first students to have the opportunity to be apart if this organization, I have seen this project from its first nail to its third house. Before I graduated from Kingwood Park High School in May 2019, I was the lead architect for Kingwood Park High School’s first tiny home. I was in charge of drafting the construction and design plans as well as presenting to community members in order to acquire donations and community support. I was also hands-on during the construction process, working hard alongside my peers.

Since I was involved from the beginning, including fundraising, publicity, and public speaking, as well as the actual construction, I believe this project made me a very well rounded graduate and gave me an experience that I couldn’t have gotten elsewhere. These skills have made me a better student and will continue to serve me into my professional career.

This project not only gave me the opportunity to earn scholarships and leadership positions, but it also led me to my current major at UT Austin where I am studying Architectural Engineering. I plan to continue to be involved in this project for years to come, in whatever role that may entail, whether as a donor, volunteer, technical reference, or otherwise.

Overall, Students Helping Veterans: Big Heroes, Tiny Homes, was an amazing way to grow my skills and heart of service, and I hope that this opportunity will spread to other students around the country.” -Sarah Dalby