A Community United: Restoring Safety and Peace of Mind for Vietnam Veteran Richard Lee

For Richard Lee, home has always been Cross, South Carolina. A lifelong resident, he was raised just across the street from the home where he lives today. Aside from four years serving in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War, he has spent his life in the community he loves. His parents moved into the home in 1989 while his son, Lorenzo, was serving in Germany, and it's where the family has gathered for generations.

Richard built a career as a welder, plumber, and pipe fitter, but he's equally remembered for serving his neighbors. Whether repairing frozen well pumps during the winter or lending a helping hand, he was always willing to give his time and talents without expecting anything in return.

Around 2016, Richard was struck by a car while riding his bicycle just yards from his home. The accident left him with limited mobility, making it more difficult to maintain the house where he has spent so much of his life. His greatest wish, however, has remained the same – to continue living safely at home.

When Richard needed help, the community stepped in.

Habitat for Humanity of Berkeley County partnered with Big Bear Roofing, Hope Repair, GAF, and QXO to complete critical structural repairs and install a new roof, helping Richard remain safely in the home he loves. Volunteers from our local Navy, longtime supporters of Berkeley Habitat, also served on the project, making the day especially meaningful as fellow service members helped a Vietnam veteran.

For Lorenzo, the repairs mean more than a safer home, they provide peace of mind. Thanks to the generosity of partners, volunteers, and supporters, his father can continue living independently in the community where he has spent a lifetime serving others.

Projects like this are about more than repairing homes. They're about honoring our neighbors and ensuring people like Richard Lee have a safe place to call home. To learn more about volunteering with Habitat for Humanity of Berkeley County or supporting our mission of serving our neighbors, visit berkeleyhabitat.org/volunteer.