DJ Horne Fulfills His Mother’s Dream: Reviving the Family’s Ancestral Home Into a Shelter for the Community
Tempe, AZ — Arizona State Sun Devils’ star guard DJ Horne has made headlines not just for his exceptional basketball skills but for a deeply personal project that reflects his commitment to his family’s legacy. Horne recently fulfilled a dream his mother, Tivona Horne, had long nurtured: transforming the family’s abandoned ancestral home into a shelter that now houses not only their own family but also serves as a sanctuary for others in need.
The home, located in a rural area in North Carolina, had stood empty for over a decade. It was a place that held deep sentimental value for the Horne family, passed down through generations but slowly falling into disrepair after his grandparents moved away. For years, Tivona would tell DJ stories about the house’s former warmth, the laughter, and the memories it held. However, as time passed, the house became a reminder of what was lost rather than what was once cherished.
“Every time we passed it, my mom would say, ‘One day, I want this house to be a home again, not just for us, but for others who need help,'” DJ recalls, his voice thick with emotion. “She dreamed of giving back to the community, and I promised her I would make that dream come true.”
In the summer of 2024, Horne took the initiative to restore the property. With help from local volunteers, contractors, and even some teammates, DJ oversaw the renovation, pouring his heart into making the space livable again. The project not only involved repairing the crumbling walls and installing new utilities but also reimagining the space as a place that could provide shelter for those less fortunate.
“We wanted to create a safe space for people who have no place to call home, just as this house was a place of refuge for us when we were growing up,” said Tivona. “Seeing it come back to life, especially with my son’s dedication, has been beyond emotional. It’s a dream fulfilled.”
The shelter now serves as both a home for the Horne family and a place where others can find temporary refuge. Local families in need of housing, particularly those facing difficult times due to economic hardships, have been able to stay in the newly renovated rooms, all while receiving assistance in the form of meals, job placement resources, and emotional support.
For DJ, the project represents something much bigger than basketball. “My mom taught me the importance of community, love, and giving back,” he said. “This house is a symbol of that—of restoring what was lost, helping others, and leaving a legacy that goes beyond basketball.”
While DJ continues to shine on the basketball court, his work off the court has already left an indelible mark on his community. And for his mother, Tivona, there’s no greater reward than seeing her son take the values she instilled in him and turn them into action, ensuring their family home becomes a place of hope for many others.
“This is more than just a house; it’s a symbol of what we can do when we come together and care for one another,” said Tivona. “And I couldn’t be prouder of my son for making this a reality.”
