{"id":9222,"date":"2025-01-06T20:08:13","date_gmt":"2025-01-06T20:08:13","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/leapphotography.com\/blog\/?p=9222"},"modified":"2025-01-06T20:08:59","modified_gmt":"2025-01-06T20:08:59","slug":"event-photos_first-story-wall-raising_2023","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"http:\/\/leapphotography.com\/blog\/2025\/01\/event-photos_first-story-wall-raising_2023\/","title":{"rendered":"A Heartwarming Event: First Story Wall Raising Day"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

As a photographer covering numerous events across the Boise area, I\u2019ve witnessed countless memorable moments. However, the “Wall Raising” day for First Story<\/a> has quickly become one of my favorite events of the year to document. It\u2019s a day filled with immense joy, collaboration, and community spirit, making it a highlight for everyone in attendance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

About First Story<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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First Story is a remarkable nonprofit organization with a mission to break generational poverty by providing affordable homeownership opportunities in the Northwest. Since its grassroots beginnings in 1998, First Story has grown exponentially. Initially, Hayden Homes team members came together to support local communities by donating groceries and clothes. Over time, these small acts of kindness evolved into a powerful movement. Today, First Story is a beacon of hope for under-resourced families.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In addition to supporting local nonprofits like food banks, domestic violence shelters, veterans\u2019 groups, and disability advocacy organizations, First Story focuses on providing affordable homeownership\u2014all without a single dollar of government funding. This unique approach not only empowers families but also fosters sustainable change within communities.<\/p>\n\n\n

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Meet the 2023 Treasure Valley Recipients<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The First Story home recipients for 2023, in Treasure Valley were April and Chris, a resilient couple who embody the spirit of perseverance. Their journey was anything but easy. After losing their rental home due to skyrocketing rent prices, they found themselves without stable housing. Moving between family members\u2019 homes, hotels, and even the streets, their challenges only deepened when April was diagnosed with breast cancer. Unable to work, April relied on Chris, the sole provider for their family of six.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Through the support of Neighborhood Works,<\/a> April and Chris discovered First Story. Their application was successful, and they were chosen to receive a home\u2014a life-changing opportunity that reignited their hopes for a stable future.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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What Happens on Wall Raising Day?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

First Story\u2019s home-building journey includes two major celebrations: the Wall Raising Day and the key turnover ceremony. Wall Raising Day is a magical experience where the community comes together to support the new homeowners and celebrate this significant milestone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The day\u2019s activities include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n