Times are tough, and the construction of new homes has slowed considerably across the country.

But in Aberdeen, the Ivy family will mark an important milestone in the construction of their new home -- and the community is invited to join in on the fun.

The celebration begins at 9 a.m. this Saturday at the construction site at 211 Spring St. Local Habitat for Humanity representatives and Thrivent Financial members will speak during a short program.

This new home is a result of an alliance between Habitat for Humanity International and Thrivent Financial for Lutherans.

Called Thrivent Builds with Habitat for Humanity, this alliance has resulted in thousands of decent, affordable homes across the country since 2005.

Thanks to its 2.6 million members who own financial products with the organization, Thrivent Financial for Lutherans is able to contribute to the improvement of communities like Aberdeen. The Thrivent Builds alliance also engages volunteers -- members of Thrivent Financial, members of area Lutheran churches and members of the community at large -- to work alongside the partner families to build these homes.

The Ivy family is more than a little eager to finish construction of their new home. They will complete 600 hours of "sweat equity" helping to build it, a basic tenet of Habitat for Humanity. They will also repay the no-profit mortgage over a period of 30 years, illustrating Habitat for Humanity's objective to give families a "hand up" rather than a "hand out."

"Being able to help provide a family with a home means so much to Thrivent members," said Bob Northrup, of Our Saviour Lutheran Church in Southern Pines, the Thrivent representative for the build. "Volunteering is important to them, and this gives them a great way to personally support our community by helping families achieve financial security."

Habitat for Humanity of the N.C. Sandhills is a Christian housing ministry that is able to offer interest-free mortgages to individuals in need of simple, decent housing.

It partners with families, volunteers, churches and community organizations to work toward the goal of ending substandard housing in the Sandhills.

Anyone needing more information or who would like to get involved with Habitat for Humanity can contact Amanda Jakl at 334-1162 or 295-1934.

Habitat is currently seeking volunteers and supporters of all kinds. More information is available at www.sandhillshabitat.org.