West Valley Demonstration Project team members partnered with Habitat for Humanity Buffalo on a day off from work to help build a new home for a family in need.
Office of Environmental Management
September 29, 2026
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West Valley Demonstration Project team members and their family members stand in front of a new Habitat for Humanity Buffalo house being built. The organization provides affordable homeownership to low-income families in the surrounding area. From left, Jason and Lynitia Casper, Joseph Pillittere, Dave and Peggy Loop and Carrie Bragg. Not pictured: Robert Wade.
WEST VALLEY, N.Y. — West Valley Demonstration Project team members partnered with Habitat for Humanity Buffalo on a day off from work to help build a new home for a family in need.
The employees moved a shed to a new location on the property in Buffalo, New York, and sided a two-story house.
“Habitat for Humanity Buffalo is committed to building strength, stability and self-reliance through safe and affordable shelter,” said Jeanmarie Cieslica, the organization’s chief engagement and development officer. “We are deeply thankful for our friends at West Valley Cleanup Alliance for their steadfast commitment and support of this goal. Their passion for a strong Buffalo community is shown through their multiple modes of support, and we are grateful for their help in rebuilding Buffalo one home at a time.”
Helping build a home is one of many projects the West Valley team takes on each year to support local nonprofits — from Day of Caring events to an annual holiday food drive and Toys for Tots collections.
“Our employees chose to give up their day off to volunteer with West Valley Cleanup Alliance — an effort that speaks to their generosity and genuine commitment to the people we serve,” said Jason Casper, president and program manager for West Valley Cleanup Alliance, a U.S. Department of Energy Office of Environmental Management cleanup contractor. “Volunteerism is essential to a strong community; it helps meet real needs, strengthens connections and improves quality of life for our neighbors. I’m incredibly proud of our team for stepping up with compassion and making a tangible, positive impact.”
For more than 30 years, Habitat for Humanity Buffalo has expanded affordable homeownership, building more than 300 houses in the city. Nearly two thirds of those projects have been rehabilitated homes donated or purchased at low cost.
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