Fuller Center adds new international partner in Cluj, Romania

Fuller Center adds new international partner in Cluj, Romania

Fuller Center for Housing representatives at the international headquarters in Americus, Georgia, met via Zoom with several members of the new Fuller Center for Housing of Cluj, Romania on Thursday to officially sign covenant partnership documents — officially making The Fuller Center for Housing of Cluj, Romania the affordable housing ministry’s newest covenant partner.

Fuller Center President David Snell noted that while the partnership may officially be new, the relationship between Cluj and Millard Fuller’s work goes back decades. In fact, Millard and Linda Fuller visited Cluj for build in 2003 when the group was affiliated with Habitat for Humanity.

“This is just another step in a long relationship that Cluj has had with Millard’s ministries. Our history is a long one. … And I think we have a very bright future.”

Fuller Center Vice President of International Programs Ryan Iafigliola noted that the group already has plenty of experience building homes and engaging local volunteers, so it’s no surprise that they already are ready to host Fuller Center Global Builders teams. In fact, one team already is scheduled to work there Oct. 22-Nov. 3 of this year.

“This will hopefully be the beginning of something that lasts for years and perhaps decades — perhaps it outlasts all of us,” Iafigliola said. “It is a momentous day. When that seed gets planted in the ground, you never know how many apples may come from it.”

While the group is headquartered in Cluj — considered the unofficial “capital” of the historic and picturesque Transylvania region — Director Andrei Aronet said the partner will focus for now on building affordable duplexes in the village of Jucu de Sus in Cluj County. The multi-lot project will ultimately include recreational areas, a community garden and other social amenities, he said.

“I’m very grateful once again to be part of a team that is motivated both by the mission and also by something that’s a big belief of mine — that what we do for others is what we do for ourselves,” Aronet said. “For me, I think the key word for today is gratitude — and I think the key word for tomorrow is work.”

If you are interested in learning more about our work in Romania or are interested in a Global Builders trip to this new international volunteer destination, visit FullerCenter.org/Romania for more information.