Amy Phommasane and her 6 year-old son, Souky, are excited to be Habitat Homeowners. Since moving to the United States from Laos in 2004, and becoming an American citizen in 2008, Amy has experienced many changes and accomplishments. Among the biggest adjustments, Amy cites learning a new language, getting used to Kansas weather, and many cultural changes. Despite these adjustments, Amy believes that she has gotten quite used to life in Lawrence. "I feel like I know Lawrence better than my hometown," she states.

Amy's approach to life is reflected by her sentiment that "as long as you are a good person, you can do anything." This positive and determined attitude has been a life long characteristic. As an 11 year-old school girl, Amy had to leave her home and family in the Laotian countryside in order to continue her post-elementary education in a nearby city, visiting her family only on weekends.

Education continues to be an important part of Amy's life; she is currently enrolled as a half-time pre-nursing student at Johnson County Community College (JCCC) and looks forward to a future career in nursing. Amy also works full time as a nurses' aid at Brandon Woods retirement community. And, in addition to balancing her roles as a student, employee, and mother, Amy volunteers at Lawrence Memorial Hospital in escort services. As a future homeowner, Amy stated that she is most looking forward to the independence of having her own home, which she noted is "exciting and the most challenging [part], too!"

Amy's home will be a Building on Faith project, meaning that the Lawrence Habitat Covenant Churches are working together to fund and construct the house. Building on Faith also built homes in 2009, 2007, 2005, 2003, and 1998.