CONSTRUCTION CAMP OPENED MY EYES.

Torrean Gordon was part of our first construction camp in 2024. He is now a proud graduate of Douglas Byrd High School, Class of 2025.

Honored to have been selected for the camp, Torrean said last year's camp opened his eyes and lit a light for the construction field. He has plans to enroll in FTCC's general contracting courses in hopes of transferring to Fayetteville State University. FSU has recently been approved for Construction Project Management Fall 2025.

Torrean's mother, Akeenya Bromell-Kearney, who presented the camp to him last year, reached out to Brandon Price, Fayetteville Area Habitat for Humanity's CEO, expressing their gratitude for the camp and Torrean's graduation accomplishments. She mentioned how inspired and motivated Torrean was after working with and using the saw, talking to local licensed tradesmen and women, and creating new friendships within the camp.

We asked Torrean what his favorite part of the camp was, and he mentioned framing. The hardest part was the heat, but the easiest was plumbing and electrical, which he occasionally helps with his uncle's business. We also asked Torrean what he would change about the camp, and his words were simply "nothing, it was fun!"

In 2017, Akeenya, father Whalen, Torrean, and his older brother moved from Rock Hill, SC, not knowing anyone. Akeenya has expectations of Torrean because she knows he wants to work with his hands and is very deserving. Receiving the Principal's Award for high academic achievement and excellent citizenship, Akeenya said she knew anyone could have gotten this award, but knew they were talking about "her baby" before his name was called to the stage. His teachers agreed with the honor, stating, "They are so proud and wish more students could be like him."

Torrean's advice for the upcoming 2025 camp attendees is "To strive for greatness and never give up. Keep your head up." He is often reminded of how much his quote to others means to him, because of the passing of his Grandmother the day before the last day of camp. Torrean dedicated his future to her, intending to gain more knowledge in the construction field. According to what he researched on Google, the Dodge Charger that he wants, he said, "I should have in no time, if I stay focused."

We are looking forward to this year's construction camp, which we have partnered with Sweet Valley Ranch to host our campsite. If you are considering sponsorship, please reach out to marketing@fayettevillenchabitat.org

Ashley R. Thompson, Director of Marketing