INDIANAPOLIS — A Marine Corps veteran's journey is now bringing him to the north side of Indianapolis.
"It's been a journey from the dark side into the light," veteran Troy Rivers said.
Rivers is helping build his new home through Habitat for Humanity and Helping Veterans and Families, or HVAF.
“Partnership is critical [with] the community coming together to support our homeless population that are making those next steps in their lives and especially our homeless veterans," Rick Penny, board member for HVAF, said.
Rivers' journey with HVAF began in 2007when he participated in REST: a former program that helped veterans overcome addiction. After REST, HVAF found him housing, and soon volunteering at the VA became Rivers' full-time job.
"I’m so thankful that the Lord gave me the opportunity to turn my life around," Rivers said.
Becoming a homeowner is the next stop on Rivers' journey before retirement.
"After getting into my house, I have a sister, she's older than me and she's mentally challenged and she's been in a facility for pretty much all her life. I'm looking to bring her home," Rivers said.
Rivers says he's thankful for the winding journey called life and for everyone who's joined him along the way.
“I could've never imagined I'd be where I am today and have a beautiful home that I can call home," Rivers said. "I’m feeling really on top of the world. It seems amazing that I have the opportunity to be a homeowner."
Rivers' home is the third Habitat for Humanity Home built for an HVAF veteran.
