Cara Brookins made the brave decision to leave her abusive marriage and build a new life for her children. With no construction experience and limited resources, she resolved to build a home on her own, using online tutorials and sheer determination. In 2007, she bought a one-acre plot for $20,000 and secured a $150,000 loan to start construction. A mother of five and a computer programmer, Cara involved her children, ages 2 to 17, in the process. Her son Drew helped with the plans, while 11-year-old Jada hauled water to mix concrete for the foundation. They worked together after school, and for more complicated tasks, she hired a firefighter with construction experience.

By March 2009, their 3,500-square-foot home, named Inkwell Manor, was complete. Though Cara initially didn’t see the project as a source of pride, she later recognized the immense personal growth it brought. Her story is a testament to the power of determination, small steps toward big goals, and finding strength in the support of others.