Pitching in on Build-a-Thon

CINDY ELLEN RUSSELL / CRUSSELL@STARBULLETIN.COM
Nani Kamaiopili got bashful while having her photograph taken Saturday afternoon in Waimanalo. Kamaiopili's home was the centerpiece project for the Honolulu Habitat for Humanity Build-a-Thon, in which about 100 volunteers pitched in to help complete it over a 24-hour period. "Everybody who came out here has the spirit of my grandson. He said, 'Granny, I want to help you build this,'" said Kamaiopili, who lost her 23-year-old grandson, Jeffrey Carvalho, two years ago in a traffic incident. "This place will be dedicated to Jeff," she said.

CINDY ELLEN RUSSELL / CRUSSELL@STARBULLETIN.COM
Volunteer Jodi Knapp prepped a lawn area at the home.

CINDY ELLEN RUSSELL / CRUSSELL@STARBULLETIN.COM
Volunteer Kevin Heesacker installed a railing during the Habitat for Humanity Build-a-Thon held Saturday afternoon at Nani Kamaiopili's home in Waimanalo.

CINDY ELLEN RUSSELL / CRUSSELL@STARBULLETIN.COM
Volunteer Bennett Fung hammered away during the Habitat for Humanity Build-a-Thon held Saturday afternoon at Nani Kamaiopili's home in Waimanalo.