A celebration took place in April for the 50th anniversary of Frontier Housing, a once-humble effort that has grown into a vital force for affordable housing in Eastern Kentucky. Founded in 1974 by Tom Carew and a group of fellow Glenmary volunteers, Frontier began with little more than faith, determination, and a giant tub of peanut butter, the staple of a meagre diet.

With early support from Glenmary Father John Garvey, donors, and the Catholic Campaign for Human Development, the nonprofit took root in Morehead, Kentucky. As of this year, Frontier has constructed 850 homes, repaired over 400, built more than 100 rental units, and served upwards of 2,100 households!

At the anniversary celebration, Father Chet Artysiewicz reflected on Frontier’s growth from a marginal effort into a robust organization offering homeownership opportunities, training, and financial counseling. “It is truly a Glenmary success story,” he said, praising the organization’s focus on empowering local communities. “It’s a sound example of how Glenmary can have a lasting effect on a community.”

Frontier Housing continues to lead in the movement for better housing across Appalachia.