Habitat for Humanity of Monroe County Named 2026 Community Anchor by Bloomington Chamber of Commerce
BLOOMINGTON, Ind. — Habitat for Humanity of Monroe County has been named the 2026 Community Anchor by the Greater Bloomington Chamber of Commerce, recognizing the organization’s longstanding contribution to the Bloomington and Monroe County community.
The award was presented to Habitat for Humanity of Monroe County President and CEO Wendi Goodlett and Development Director Annie Eakin at the Chamber’s 111th Annual Meeting & Community Awards on September 16, 2026. The Community Anchor Award recognizes a business or organization that has contributed positively to the local community over a sustained period.
For nearly four decades, Habitat for Humanity of Monroe County has worked alongside local families, volunteers, donors, businesses, and community partners to expand access to affordable homeownership. The recognition comes at a time when the need for safe, affordable housing remains significant throughout Bloomington and Monroe County.
Building Opportunities Through Affordable Homeownership
A safe, affordable home can give families more opportunity to save, plan for the future, build equity, and feel more stable and connected to their communities.
Habitat for Humanity of Monroe County addresses the local need for affordable housing by partnering with families who are ready to pursue homeownership. Through the organization’s homeownership program, future homeowners contribute sweat equity, participate in homeownership education, and purchase their homes with affordable mortgages. When homeowners make their mortgage payments, those funds are then reinvested into Habitat’s work, helping create additional opportunities for future families.
The organization’s work is particularly important in Monroe County, which is recognized as one of the least affordable places to live in Indiana.
38 Years of Building in Monroe County
Habitat for Humanity of Monroe County was founded in 1988 with a mission to create homeownership opportunities for families in the community. The affiliate operated entirely through volunteers until 1997.
Since its founding, Habitat has grown alongside the community. With the support of thousands of volunteers and community partners, the organization has built more than 250 homes throughout Bloomington and Monroe County. Today, Habitat builds 8 to 10 homes each year for families and individuals in need of safe and affordable housing.
From individual volunteers and faith communities to local businesses, foundations, donors, and construction partners, the work has always been a community effort. Every home represents the collective investment of people who believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to have a decent place to live.
Looking Toward the Future
Habitat for Humanity of Monroe County is honored to receive the 2026 Community Anchor Award and remains committed to expanding affordable homeownership opportunities throughout Bloomington and Monroe County.
“We are incredibly grateful to the Greater Bloomington Chamber of Commerce for recognizing Habitat and, more importantly, the community of people who make this work possible,” said Wendi Goodlett, President and CEO of Habitat for Humanity of Monroe County. “For 38 years, our volunteers, donors, homeowners, partners, and supporters have shown what is possible when a community comes together around the belief that everyone deserves a decent place to live.”
Habitat’s work would not be possible without the people who continue to invest their time, resources, skills, and generosity into affordable housing. The organization extends its gratitude to every volunteer, donor, homeowner, sponsor, business, community partner, and supporter who has helped build strength, stability, self-reliance, and shelter in Monroe County.
As Habitat looks ahead, the organization will continue partnering with community members to create more opportunities for affordable homeownership and stronger neighborhoods.
Together, we build more than homes. We build a stronger community.
