The phrase "It takes a village" is widely recognized and often quoted. For the Greater Fredericksburg Habitat for Humanity (GFHFH), that village consists of a community of dedicated volunteers who work together to create safe and affordable homes, fostering hope and sustainability. The history of GFHFH reveals countless opportunities to connect with remarkable individuals who have been instrumental in its growth, such as Steven Scheibe. Upon meeting him, it became clear how deeply GFHFH resonated with him.

In 1995, a passionate group within the community expressed a desire to establish a Habitat for Humanity affiliate in the Fredericksburg area. Through word of mouth and collective enthusiasm, around twenty interested individuals gathered in the Fellowship Hall of Falmouth Baptist Church. They discussed the necessary requirements to secure the affiliate charter, and volunteers eagerly stepped forward to take on committee assignments and officer positions.

During a conversation, Steven pointed to a beautiful quilt hanging in the conference room, adorned with various T-shirts created for GFHFH. With a smile, he highlighted a specific blue T-shirt, recalling, “That was my very first T-shirt that I often wore... now my closet is filled with different ones from over the years, and each is special.”

Steven shared that the inaugural build took place in Mayfield for a family living in a home with dirt floors covered by carpets. A lot was purchased on Railroad Avenue, where volunteers cleared brush and debris. "Building was a collective effort involving many volunteers, both skilled and unskilled."

The second build was a blitz build, completed within a week. Approximately 40 to 50 volunteers worked on-site, carrying lumber, digging ditches, and framing the structure, while other volunteers provided lunches and beverages for everyone involved. Steven recalled with satisfaction, “By the following Saturday, we had the house under roof and locked tight, and the new owners—a single mother, her little son, and her mother—finally had a place to call home.”

As time passed, the commitment and dedication of GFHFH continued to grow, culminating in the construction of five homes on five large lots, resulting in the creation of a subdivision. Steven shared many wonderful anecdotes about the history of the ReStore as well. He speaks in a gentle and humble manner, always accompanied by a smile or a lighthearted joke. Yet, it is evident that the history of GFHFH holds profound significance for him, just as it did many years ago.

In the future, there is hope to further share the history of GFHFH and the ReStore, with a renewed opportunity to sit with Steven and hear how this village has evolved into a community united in care and support. Gratitude is extended to Steven and all those, past and present, who continue to support the mission of GFHFH.