For May, her daughter Andrea, and Andrea’s 13-year-old daughter, Carissa, life in Clark County has been a journey of resilience, hope, and determination. As a multigenerational female household, they have relied on each other through challenges, setbacks, and uncertainty, building a bond rooted in love and mutual support.
May introduced Andrea to Habitat for Humanity at a young age, inspired by the compassion and humanity of Jimmy Carter’s philanthropy. That early influence instilled a deep appreciation for the work Habitat does and the opportunities it creates for families seeking stability and security.
Life has not been easy. Carissa lost her father at just seven months old, and Andrea has raised her with May’s unwavering support. Both May and Andrea have faced serious medical challenges — including surgeries, chronic conditions, and mobility issues — which have made maintaining stable housing a constant struggle. They have experienced periods of homelessness, and Andrea once stayed in a domestic violence shelter, all while working tirelessly to provide for Carissa and support May’s health needs. Before becoming homeowners, the apartment they were living in was small, crowded, and often stressful, with maintenance issues and rising costs that made it difficult for them to fully relax or thrive. Yet through every hardship, they have persisted, creating routines, managing health, and nurturing Carissa’s growth.
Education and curiosity are at the heart of this family. May holds an associate degree in Elementary Education, while Andrea has pursued studies in creative writing and fashion design. Carissa shares their love of learning, exploring science, history, music, and creative arts. Together, they enjoy reading, crafting, gaming, and caring for their two rescued cats, who bring joy and comfort to their household.
Their Habitat home represents far more than a roof over their heads — it is stability, space, and safety. It gives them the chance to finally leave behind the uncertainty of rising rents, crowded living conditions, and past struggles with homelessness and abuse. It’s a place where May, Andrea, and Carissa can finally relax, pursue hobbies, and thrive together without fear.
May and Andrea’s story is one of perseverance, hope, and love. They have survived adversity, prioritized family, and committed to nurturing Carissa’s growth. With thanks to Habitat for Humanity, they were able to leave behind uncertainty and live in a safe, lasting, and loving home — a foundation where their multigenerational family can heal, grow, and flourish together for years to come.
