Building More Than Homes: Celebrating Homeownership Month at CHIP
June is National Homeownership Month—a time to reflect on what it truly means to own a home. At CHIP, we don’t just see houses rising from the ground—we see dreams materializing, sacrifices honored, and communities growing stronger with every beam and nail.
CHIP recently celebrated a tremendous milestone at Magnolia Meadows in Corning, where a dedicated group of homeowners reached the finish line of an extraordinary journey. These individuals didn’t just receive homes—they built them. After long shifts at work and while raising families, they committed 30 additional hours a week to the construction process. It’s a feat that can’t be measured by labor alone.
Behind the scenes, there were countless quiet acts of resilience and generosity: parents coordinating childcare, coworkers and relatives stepping in to volunteer, and new mothers pumping and preparing bottles before heading out to the site. Each task carried the weight of hope and determination.
We were especially moved by homeowner Eli Angulo, who spoke during the celebration. Working full-time at Rolling Hills Casino, Eli met his building hours thanks to a powerful circle of support—friends and neighbors who stepped up to see him across the finish line. His heartfelt words reminded everyone what CHIP’s Self-Help Housing Program is really about: not just constructing houses, but building community.
“These last 11 months have been a journey, and everyone has done their best in their own homes, but also in each other’s. The support and motivation from each other and our construction foreman, Leo [Romero], plus all the CHIP supervisors at the construction site, like Mateo [Meras], are truly inspirational. Their patience to show us step by step how to build these homes and how to fix the mistakes we made was amazing.”
The homes at Magnolia Meadows are living proof that when people come together, they can achieve the extraordinary. And the story doesn’t stop there—CHIP is starting a new chapter in Orland, where another group of determined individuals will soon begin building their own homes and futures. The work ahead is more than construction; it’s a continuation of a movement rooted in resilience, cooperation, and the belief that everyone deserves a safe place to call home. We’re proud to stand alongside these future homeowners—not just in June, but every single day—as they transform frames and foundations into places of belonging, security, and love.
Happy Homeownership Month, from all of us at CHIP.
