By Katie Bolt

Special to The Pilot

Dreams awaken and new possibilities arise when community-oriented people devote their time, energy and talents to being mindful of the needs of others.

The Habitat for Humanity's Spring Gala, "Raising the Roof for Patsy's House," to be held April 14, is a tribute to the life and accomplishments of Patsy Bonsal.

Bonsal died in August of last year, and this event is a celebration of the analytic thread of wisdom, courage, inspiration and generosity that defined her and benefited Habitat tremendously.

For someone who has never owned a home, a key is precious metal. It opens more than a house for the new homeowners; it opens up a whole new lifestyle.

Habitat is a ministry of neighbors helping neighbors by reaching across cultural boundaries and setting the common goal of building strong neighborhoods. Its mission is to bring dignity through home ownership by partnering with families, volunteers and the community to build affordable houses and a better life for future generations.

Responding to the question of why so many people are exhibiting such fervor for this event, Gala Chairperson Alice Robbins explains, "Because of the energy that Patsy Bonsal devoted to Habitat for Humanity of the Sandhills for 20 years, and because of the contributions of her many friends, about 200 families live in modest homes that represent a dream come true for them. Their decent housing uplifts our whole community, and we all owe much appreciation to Patsy."

The purpose of this event is to pause and remember this special woman and what made her so close to people's hearts. What resonates most clearly is the way in which she understood the vulnerability of people. Her achievements largely depended on cooperative efforts with others, but she practiced one of the great maximums of the modern age: simple and effective communication. She greatly enjoyed being both an equalizer and a pioneer.

A cocktail reception featuring savory hors d' oeuvres and an elegant dinner will be followed by dancing to the lively tunes of The Vision Band from Asheboro.

The event will be held in the Royal Dornoch Ballroom at the Country Club of North Carolina. Proceeds from this event will go toward beginning to build a house in May, which will forever be known as "Patsy's House."

Students from The O'Neal School in Southern Pines will help in the construction process.

Assisting Robbins are co-chairs Mimi Beatty, Jackie Garris and Donna Verrilli, as well as committee members Linda Lindsay, Beth Garrison, Ellen Airs, Rita DiNapoli, Sally Brown, Nick Brown, Penny Enroth, Ruffles Clement, Marilyn Grube, Jana Green, Susan Huberth, Hartley Fitts, Sally Wood, Mary Connell, Craig Pryor, Franceska Aaron, Freida Powers, Penny Junk and Katie Bolt.

Katie Bolt can be contacted at katie.bolt@wfp.com.