Murals are so much more than oversized paintings. Colorful, loud and proud, murals are the ultimate in visual storytelling.

Lancaster Lebanon Habitat for Humanity has a great big story to tell.

"Murals are a great way to celebrate the community in a positive way and add some color to your day," said Mike Andrelczyk, the communications and volunteer manager for the organization. "This mural is a celebration of community, and the Lancaster Habitat ReStore is a place where the community can come together to support our mission of building homes, community and hope, just by shopping and getting a great deal. This mural is really special for a lot of reasons, but one of the best parts is that it illuminates how Habitat families work hard to make their dream of homeownership a reality, and how people from all walks of life come together to make our community a better place and build a brighter future."

In late August, Lancaster Lebanon Habitat for Humanity's ReStore, which is located at 1061 Manheim Pike, Lancaster, unveiled a 48-foot-by-17-foot mural depicting and commemorating its special journey of community leadership. The mural also recognized the organization's 40 years of making Lancaster and Lebanon better places to live.

The 90-minute unveiling event drew dozens of public officials, community partners, organization staff and volunteers, supporters and local residents who have benefited from the nonprofit's services and featured a public address from Lancaster mayor Jaime Arroyo. The 40th anniversary mural was created by local artists Brenda Blank and Steve Wilson and was sponsored by Joe, Jake, David and Emily Deerin.

"The great thing about Habitat events is they are always such joyous celebrations of the community coming together to do something meaningful and powerful," said Andrelczyk. "We've grown a lot over the course of 40 years. Thanks to our staff, board, donors, volunteers and supporters, we're now able to build a greater number of affordable homes in Lancaster and Lebanon counties and have an even bigger impact. We're always innovating and finding more efficient ways to build. No matter how much we've grown, we're dedicated to making our community a better place for everyone, one home at a time."

"The people who volunteer, give and shop with Habitat may be modest," said Carolyn Haskell, a board member, "but we are also optimists and people of action. We believe the best of humanity comes from kindness, compassion and the generosity of others. Together, we overcome great challenges."

The mural was painted on the southeast interior wall of the Habitat for Humanity ReStore in Lancaster. From brainstorming sessions in the spring to planning and then ultimately execution, the mural project took more than 200 hours to complete.

Since 1986, Lancaster Lebanon Habitat for Humanity has positively impacted the lives of 300 families and individuals through affordable housing. It was formed by members of Highland Presbyterian Church's congregation.

"Affordable housing means everything," said Andrelczyk. "We believe that when individuals and families live in affordable, stable homes, they are better able to secure other essentials and opportunities in life, such as higher education, medical care, nutritious food and job opportunities. Communities thrive when people have places to call home."

For additional information, go to http://www.lancasterlebanonhabitat.org.