In December 2018, a pivotal moment in Nate's life set off a chain of events that would transform his future. "What a year of waiting and patience it has been. Actually, what six years it has been," says the proud new homeowner, reflecting on the remarkable journey from uncertainty to homeownership.

Six years ago , he made a choice that would alter the course of his life. He extended his time off from work in Alberta to meet his newborn twin sons, just one month old. "Never when they put these two tiny humans in my arms did I think they would save and change my life so positively," he shares. But back then, he was overwhelmed, unsure, and had no clear roadmap for the future. "I had no idea what I was doing," he admits with a chuckle.

Like many new parents, he was determined to give his children the best possible life. But the financial reality was daunting. "I started paying off my bad credit and bills, hoping one day I could give them a home," he recalls. However, with the real estate market soaring, it quickly became clear that owning a home would be a distant dream. "I realized it was going to take a while," he shares.

Yet, as the years passed, he never gave up. The dream of homeownership didn’t fade, but rather evolved into a more actionable goal. One day, while grappling with the overwhelming odds, he was given the advice to apply with Habitat for Humanity. Unlike traditional home buying programs, Habitat’s unique model allows individuals to become homeowners by completing 500 hours of volunteer work, in addition to meeting certain income and other criteria.

"I sent them an email, and I heard back." That single response set the wheels in motion for what would become a life-changing year.

Over the next year, Nate worked tirelessly with Habitat for Humanity. He volunteered, and navigated the application process, all while balancing the demands of fatherhood and work. "I’m super proud of the amount I have grown and learned in the past six years," he reflects. It wasn’t just about the house—it was about the transformation he underwent as a person, a father, and a provider.

This was a journey not just of financial recovery but of personal growth and responsibility. As his twins, grew, so did he.

"Along with Bently and Lincoln, who are turning into good kids, I feel like I’m finally becoming the father I always wanted to be."

Move In Day

After six long years of hard work, sacrifice, and hope, the moment arrived. "We are first-time homeowners today," he says. It's not just the keys to a new house he's holding, but the key to a new chapter in his life—a new beginning for him and his family.

This journey wasn't easy, but it was one of deep perseverance. He learned to navigate challenges, to overcome obstacles, and to keep moving forward for the sake of his children. "It wasn’t just about getting a house," he explains, "It was about building a future for my kids, showing them that no matter how tough things get, you never stop trying."

His story is a testament to the power of patience, persistence, and the belief that change is possible, even in the face of overwhelming odds. From meeting his sons for the first time to holding the keys to a home they can now call their own, this father has proven that with dedication and a little help from organizations like Habitat for Humanity, dreams truly can come true.

As he looks forward to the future, his gratitude and optimism are palpable. "It has been a long road, but today, I can finally say that it was all worth it."

In the end, the house isn’t just four walls—it’s the foundation of a brighter tomorrow for him, for his kids, and for anyone who believes in the power of second chances.

Get to know Nate and the twins

Most weekends, you’ll find Nate and his twin sons racing around the local BMX track and flying off jumps. Despite being only six years old, Nate's boys began competing on the full track at four, often battling for top spots in their races. Competing at speed is in their blood, as Nate’s family has a legacy of three generations in stock car racing. Nate says that joining them in this sport has been a thrilling experience for him despite the initial challenges and minor accidents. He said that watching the boys grow and excel in BMX racing has been one of the most rewarding and bonding experiences as a family. In addition to racing and coaching the twins during soccer season, Nate also makes sure to find time for other outdoor adventures as well. Whether it’s camping, fishing, hunting, biking, or swimming, they love exploring the mountains in every season.

Nate, originally from Prince George, grew up in the small communities of Oyster River and Campbell River. After his twin boys were born he became a single dad and made the move to Courtenay to be closer to his parents, who offer invaluable support and love. The beauty of the Comox Valley, access to recreation sites and the strength of his family ties have made this area feel like home.

How did you hear about Habitat, and what prompted you to apply and partner with us?

Nate said that he had heard about Habitat for Humanity before but didn’t think it would be a solution for them until their housing situation became increasingly problematic.

When his daycare provider strongly suggested Habitat as a possible solution to his housing issues, he knew it was time to take action and reached out to explain his situation and begin the application process.

Tell us about your volunteer experience with Habitat.

Nate was initially worried about balancing his volunteering with everything else in his life, but said that Habitat has been very accommodating.

“I was a bit worried being a full-time dad and with full-time work how the hours would work but so far there have been lots of opportunities outside of work hours and it’s going very well!” - Nate

How will owning a home help your family in the years to come?

Nate has been looking forward to the positive aspects of moving into his new home. “Owning our own home will provide us with a safe, private, and stable environment where we can invest our money, time and energy. It’s a place where we can build lasting memories and enjoy the comfort of our own space. Having individual rooms for the boys might even help us all get a bit more rest on weekends,” said Nate.

Would you recommend Habitat to other families looking for a solution to affordable homeownership? How do you feel about the process so far?

Nate said that the process has been long “but like all good things, sometimes you must wait. It’s very well run and I have had no problems or issues.” Nate said he would definitely recommend Habitat to other families seeking affordable homeownership solutions.

THANK YOU

Thank you to all the donors, sponsors, and volunteers who make these dreams possible. Your contributions are transforming lives and helping families like ours build a future full of hope and possibility.

If you would like to be part of Nate's journey of homeownership, please consider donating today.