In a world filled with uncertainty and challenges, the resilience of certain families shines brightly, serving as a beacon of hope and inspiration for others.
Billy and Teresa Demankowski are a remarkable couple who have weathered life’s storms with unwavering strength and an unyielding commitment to family and community. Their journey towards homeownership, sIn partnership with Verde Valley Habitat for Humanity (VVHFH), not only reflects their perseverance but also showcases the power of unity and compassion.Billy and Teresa embody the spirit of selflessness, never hesitating to offer assistance to others. They are the reliable anchors that their neighbors turn to in times of need. Whether it’s doing yard work or running errands for a neighbor who has lost mobility, the Demankowski’s consistently go above and beyond. Their genuine care for their loved ones and the community at large resonates through their actions.

Verde Valley Habitat for Humanity has had the privilege of collaborating with Billy and Teresa, and their family on the journey towards building their dream home. Over 500 hours of sweat equity and determination have been invested, a testament to their unwavering commitment to realizing their dreams.

Early on in their journey, when asked about their aspirations, the Demankowski children expressed their excitement about having a yard and the opportunity to play outdoors. Previously restricted in their apartment, the family longed to decorate their new home for Halloween, a celebration they can now fully embrace. Above all, their deepest desire was to have a place they could proudly call their own—a permanent sanctuary where cherished memories would be created. Already, they have forged meaningful connections with their neighbors and actively participated in community initiatives, such as the neighborhood cleanup on Earth Day.


Fast forward to June 10th, 2023, Teresa stood in their new home, embracing the reality that their dreams have become tangible. No longer burdened by worry, pure joy and relief fill their hearts. Billy’s unwavering dedication and hard work, obtaining sweat equity hours, along the way have finally paid off. The Demankowski family have found their haven—a place where they can thrive, grow, and find solace in each other’s embrace.


Lastly, a special thank you to all the generous donors and supporters of Verde Valley Habitat for Humanity. Your financial contributions have made it possible for families like the Demankowski’s to achieve their dreams of homeownership. Your belief in the power of community and your commitment to making a difference have transformed lives and strengthened our community as a whole:
Arizona Community Foundation: We express our deepest gratitude for their ongoing support and commitment to building stronger communities. Your generosity has made a significant impact in the lives of those in the Verde Valley.
United Way of Yavapai County: Thank you Nina Seim and the entire team at United Way of Yavapai County for your dedication to improving lives and creating positive change. We are grateful for the grant of $35,000, which has played a vital role in making the Demankowski family’s dream a reality.
Thank you to Wells Fargo Builds for their generous contribution of $15,000. #WellsFargoBuilds Their commitment to community development and their support of affordable housing initiatives have made a lasting impact on families like the Demankowski’s.
We extend our gratitude to Suzanne Gillies, Michael Shepherd, and the entire team at One AZ Credit Union for their support and belief in the mission of Verde Valley Habitat for Humanity. Their contributions have helped create a better future for the Demankowski family.
We express our appreciation to APS for their support. Your commitment to community empowerment and sustainability has been instrumental in transforming the lives of families like the Demankowski’s.
Our heartfelt thanks go out to AMTrust for their contributions. Their generosity has made a significant difference and has strengthened the bonds within our community.
We express our appreciation to Mark Hoagland and Red Rock Values for their support and belief in the mission of Verde Valley Habitat for Humanity. Their contributions have been instrumental in helping families like the Demankowski’s achieve their dreams of homeownership.
We would also like to extend our gratitude to the following construction partners who have played a crucial role in building the Demankowski family’s home:
– M. E Morales Architect
– Hamms Land Surveying
– Butler-Leavitt Insurance
– Lawler Construction
– Chip Putnam Homes
– Longfellow Excavation
– Spurr and Lawler Concrete
– Connolly Electric and Mechanical
– Best Plumbing
– Conn Pest Control
– Prescott Windows and Door Store
– Haven Roofing
– Total Building Systems for Drywall
– Gale Contractor Services
– Nice Jons
– Grodee Jody trash
– Alpha Cabinets and Components
– Whirlpool Corporation
– Builders First Source
– Home Depot
Donna Goldman and Melanie Young: We extend our sincere gratitude for their personal donations and fundraising efforts. Their belief in the power of community and their commitment to making a positive impact have touched the lives of the Demankowski family in a meaningful way, in memory of their brother Steven Dell.