The Family- We didn’t really mean for this to happen. We thought that we’d continue to design and build a few houses whenever vacation time permitted. But after our first renovation trip in February ’07, each of us was so overwhelmed by the sense of purpose we had while in “the Pass” that it was only natural to consider being fully devoted to it. Just as the Lord was preparing our hearts, he was making a way for us in the Pass. In June, our family was asked to oversee Project Reclaim for at least the next year.

And so the family leaves behind northern Virginia, which has been home for the past 20 years. Matt & Annette’s house is sold, boxes are packed, and the family will move to Pass Christian at the end of October.

Matt- The Army first brought the McBride’s to Virginia. Since leaving the military in 1992, Matt has been the owner of More Than a Carpenter, a home remodeling company. He has taught home improvement courses at Northern Virginia Community College. Over the years he has been active in leading young adults Bible studies and founding the youth AWANA program at his church, Calvary Baptist. In Pass Christian, Matt will help oversee the construction of the volunteer-built homes, while building his own home with Jesse. He is also looking forward to a town with only one traffic light.

Annette- Annette has been active in Prince William County Schools for the past 17 years. When her children were young she was a substitute teacher. Finally having determined that her kids are grown, Annette has been teaching at Graham Park Middle School. She has a heart for her students and has overseen a specialized reading program. In the summers, she enjoys teaching swimming lessons. Matt & Annette attend Calvary Baptist Church in Woodbridge, VA. In Pass Christian, Annette will work with Leah to manage the camp. She looks forward to a new community, a new home, and being able to walk to the ocean front.

Leah- Leah studied architecture at Virginia Tech and has been practicing architecture since graduation in 2004. She has worked for Ritter Architects and Davis Carter Scott. Together with other designers, she has designed several homes that have been built in Pass Christian. She has been active at Immanuel Bible Church in Springfield, VA, and volunteered with crisis pregnancy centers. In Pass Christian, Leah will act as the volunteer coordinator for Project Reclaim. She looks forward to meeting new volunteers each week, and being able to run, bike and swim along the coast.

Jesse- Jesse graduated from Radford University in Radford, Virginia in 2006 with a degree in criminal justice. A broken ankle prevented him from pursuing law enforcement after graduation, and he has since been working in construction with Matt. He has also enjoyed working at the Montclair Country Club since he was 14. He is active at Calvary Baptist Church in Woodbridge, VA. Jesse creates opportunities for international travel whenever he can. In Pass Christian, he will help oversee volunteer construction and help Matt build their home.