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UK Law Helps to Give Home to One of Its Own

Rita Mays has been an integral part of life at the University of Kentucky College of Law for many years. She not only serves as a custodian for the college, she greets each person with a friendly smile, wishes them the best on a good day and has become part of the heart and soul of the college.

When the College of Law learned that Mays was receiving a house from Lexington Habitat for Humanity, faculty, staff and students all wanted to pitch in to help Mays achieve her dream of becoming a homeowner.

UK Law is partnering with Ashland, Inc., Webasto Roofing Company and Lexington Habitat for Humanity to give a new home to Mays and her family. Ground was broken today on Mays' new home for her and her family in Lexington.

"We are delighted to help Mays as she works for her new home," said Sarah Welling, Wendell H. Ford Professor of Law and coordinator of the college's efforts. "While we may not be able to give a lot financially to the project, we are excited to participate in the actual building process, leaving a mark on Mays' new home much like she has on the College of Law."

Students, faculty, staff and friends of the College of Law will work on the house on Thursdays and Saturdays throughout May and June. They also will help fulfill a wish list of items to help Mays' make her new house a home. Mays' and her family will work with Lexington Habitat for Humanity to gain sweat equity hours toward their new home.

On Thursday, May 22, the College was on site to help with construction. Faculty was represented by professors William Fortune, Nicole Huberfeld, Robert Schwemm, Sarah Welling, Harold Weinberg and Dean Michael Healy. Administrators and staff were represented by Brian Powers, Melinda Rawlings and Heather Russell. Law students were represented by Aaron Baker, Kieran Comer and Anna Girard.

Lexington Habitat for Humanity, Inc. is a nonprofit, ecumenical Christian ministry that cultivates partnerships with families in need, sponsors and volunteers to build simple, decent, affordable housing in Fayette County. Lexington Habitat brings people from all walks of life together, without discrimination, in order to create a stronger, more caring community. Further, as an affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International, Lexington Habitat supports global building projects.

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