From March 8 through March 12, 2004, more than 70 "Friends" from various parts of the United States traveled to Achilles, Virginia and helped build a house for people whose house had been damaged by Hurricane Isabel last September, 2003. Of the 70 volunteers eight were from Chester Friends.

Many of these people were housed at the Achilles Union Baptist parsonage and community building. Bedrolls, etc. lined the community building and 2 rows of tables ran down the center for eating. This building had been a school cafeteria and was equipped with abundant cooking facilities. The Baptists were generous with utilities, supplies, help and food. This endeavor brought the Baptists and Friends together in a combined effort to minister.

When work began on Monday the above ground basement was in place. Requirements are that a house has to be 6 feet above ground level because of potential flooding. It was decided to add footage to accommodate a garage. The damaged house was still standing and the owners, Wanda and Bill  had lived in a mobile home approximately the size of a small one-car garage since September.

During the five days of construction this house was framed, roofed, windows installed, electrical wiring installed, '/2 of the siding completed, a front porch and back deck with stairs completed. The damaged house was bulldozed and burned.

Wanda and Bill  expressed their appreciation for the Friends Disaster Service and extended a welcome to their new home.

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