Firefighters often see the destruction, seldom the construction.

Given the opportunity to build something in the communities they serve, Valley Regional Fire Authority firefighters are stepping up by volunteering time, sweat and skills. Off-duty crews from VRFA Local 1352 – some with carpentry backgrounds – are spending Thursdays under the sun, constructing a pair of economical, “green friendly” homes in Pacific.

“Everybody comes out here with different motivations,” VRFA Capt. Kevin Morehart said between pounding nails into a wall frame on one of the homes. “We’re doing this in appreciation of the community. It’s our way to help out.

“Some of us come with a host of trade skills,” Morehart added. “And for some of us, we’re learning the different skills as we go along.”

The Pacific project was made possible through Habitat for Humanity of Seattle/South King County – a nonprofit, ecumenical Christian housing organization that works in partnership with volunteers and supporters to build decent, affordable homes for needy families.

Since 1986, Habitat for Humanity’s local affiliate has built simple, efficient housing in partnership with more than 130 low-income families. But Habitat for Humanity is not a giveaway program. Homeowners invest hundreds of hours of their own labor – sweat equity – into building their Habitat house, and they pay a no-profit, no-interest mortgage.

Two eligible families met the criteria to buy and occupy the Pacific homes – one a single-story, 1,100-square-foot abode, the other a two-story, 14,000-square-foot model. They sit on a sizable lot on Pacific Avenue. About 90 percent of the project is being supported by volunteer labor and donated supplies under the Habitat’s supervision.

Pacific is the first LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design)-certified housing project in King Country for the Habitat’s local affiliate, according to Mayor Richard Hildreth.

“I’ve been a firm supporter of Habitat for Humanity,” said Hildreth, an electrician by trade who volunteered his time in the program when the Habitat erected homes in the Snoqualmie area several years ago.

Hildreth said other Habitat-supported housing projects are in Pacific’s future. The homes, like the green-built ones being made now, are designed to be totally sustainable.

Builders hope the current project, which began in April, will be completed by October.

The VRFA has done its part.

“They’ve done everything and anything they’ve been asked to do,” Hildreth said. “I’ve been impressed with the work.”

Note: To volunteer or donate to the Pacific project, please contact construction foreman Allen Larson, 206-292-5240. For more program details, please visit www.seattle-habitat.org.