CHARLESTON, SC (WCSC) - A group of teenagers who lost loved ones in the 9/11 terrorist attacks is in Charleston the week of Feb. 15th to help build a Habitat For Humanity home in downtown Charleston.

Most of them were six- or seven-years-old when they lost either a father or grandparent. "It's kind of hard to explain. I don't really know the words," said Robert Mathai, whose father died in the attacks.

"It's still real hard today. There are so many things that remind me of him," said Brigid McDonald, who also lost her father on 9/11.

"I remember staying up all night crying because I felt close with her," said Jason Vadhan, whose grandmother was on the plane that crashed in Pennsylvania.

The world reached out to help them after their losses, and now the teens are giving back by joining Tuesday's Children. The non-profit, founded by families and friends of 9/11 victims, helps with the healing process.

Part of it is teaming up with Habitat For Humanity to build homes.

"We have found the needs of the teenagers are still very great," said the organization's director Kathy Murphy. "By helping other people, it helps them to transform their own pain to something positive, and to partner with Habitat is the perfect way for kids to give back."

"I just love to build stuff. I think it's fun and it's great to be able to give back after you received so much," said Mathai.

It's a little easier for them knowing they are working with others who share the same story. "You're surrounded by people that actually know what you've been through, so you're accepted," said John D'Allara. His father was killed in the 9/11 attacks.

When completed, the Habitat For Humanity home on North Nassau Street will be owned and occupied by a Charleston-area teacher and her three children.

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