25 Years of Women+ Build in Monroe County
Last month, Habitat for Humanity of Monroe County celebrated 25 years of Women+ Build. What began locally in 2001 has grown into a lasting tradition of hands-on service and community support. Over the years, thousands of volunteers have picked up hammers, learned new skills and worked alongside Habitat homeowners to help build safe, affordable places to call home.
Since its beginning, Women+ Build in Monroe County has helped make 39 homes possible, engaging more than 3,500 volunteers who have contributed more than 67,000 hours of service. In 2026, our community celebrated two more milestones as Women+ Build supported the construction of homes for Amber and Latasha, bringing the total to 41 homes.
What is Women+ Build?
Women Build is a unique Habitat event where women volunteers raise funds and then spend an exciting day building a new home for a family in our community.
Unlike other builds that rely on generous sponsors, Women Build teams raise all the funds through their networks and communities. Women Build is a unique Habitat event where women volunteers from all walks of life not only build but also raise the funds, as build days are entirely supported by their peer-to-peer fundraising efforts.
Each Habitat affiliate runs Women+ Build differently. At Habitat for Humanity of Monroe County, Women+ Build brings together hundreds of volunteers to build two homes over the course of three weeks. Our team prepares for Women+ Build months in advance to coordinate volunteers onsite while continuing our regular construction schedule.
Who were the 2026 homeowners?
This year, volunteers worked alongside future homeowners, Amber Lumen and Latasha Clark.
Amber’s journey towards homeownership began during a Christmas shopping trip when she received the life-changing call that she had been accepted into Habitat for Humanity’s homeownership program. After facing housing instability, financial strain, and cramped living conditions with her two children, Runa and Onyx, Habitat opened the door to stability.
Latasha’s journey towards homeownership is one of resilience, perseverance, and hope. After surviving an abusive relationship and raising her family as a single mother, she found support through The Rise and eventually Habitat for Humanity’s homeownership program. Though she was initially rejected, Latasha continued working toward financial stability and was accepted when she reapplied in 2024. Following the loss of her daughter, Latasha also became guardian to her granddaughter, making the opportunity for a stable home even more meaningful.
How can I get involved with Women+ Build?
Habitat for Humanity of Monroe County hosts Women+ Build every year! Beginning in June, we kick off Women+ Build with a community event where you can register to participate, learn about crew leading, or connect with our team about financial sponsorships and donations.
Support our builders and future homeowners by making a donation and sharing Habitat’s mission with others. You can even receive an Indiana state tax credit when you make a gift.
Follow Women+ Build on Facebook or subscribe to our newsletter for future updates and volunteer opportunities!
