Habitat for Humanity of Monroe County Highlights Community Impact in FY 2026 Impact Report
Bloomington, Ind. – Habitat for Humanity of Monroe County released its FY 2026 Impact Report, highlighting its work to expand affordable homeownership opportunities and build strength, stability, and self-reliance in the community.
The report reflects on a year of progress for Habitat homeowners, volunteers, and community partners. During the 2025-26 fiscal year, seven homes were completed and $1.4 million invested in new construction for partner families.
“Every home we build represents an investment in a family, an opportunity for greater stability, and a stronger future for our community,” said Wendi Goodlett, president and CEO of Habitat for Humanity of Monroe County.
“None of this would be possible without the volunteers, donors, partners, and supporters who make our work possible.”
Investing in Affordable Homeownership
In 2025-26, Habitat for Humanity of Monroe County served 15 individuals, including seven children, through its homeownership program. Future homeowners contributed approximately 5,500 hours of sweat equity, working alongside Habitat staff and volunteers as part of their path to homeownership.
Current Habitat homeowners paid roughly $176,000 in property taxes and established $560,000 in home equity.
Since 1988, Habitat for Humanity of Monroe County has built 250 homes in Bloomington and Monroe County, Indiana. This year, four Habitat homeowners paid off their affordable mortgages, marking an important milestone in the program.
Volunteers Make the Work Possible
Community members and volunteers remain essential to Habitat’s mission and construction progress. During the 2025-26 fiscal year, approximately 940 individuals contributed 15,000 volunteer hours. Additionally, 80 crew leaders and midweek crew members volunteered onsite, helping make home construction possible.
The ReStore’s Role in Habitat’s Mission
Habitat for Humanity’s work extends beyond new home construction. The Habitat ReStore is an independently owned reuse store operated by Habitat for Humanity of Monroe County.
Unlike a regular thrift store, sales from donated items are reinvested into the work of Habitat for Humanity of Monroe County. This year, Habitat ReStore generated $890,000 in gross sales during the fiscal year through the sale of gently used furniture, appliances, and building materials.
Addressing Monroe County’s Housing Challenges
The impact report also highlights the ongoing affordability challenges facing local families. Monroe County is identified in the report as one of the most expensive places to live in Indiana. In 2026, the cost of living in Bloomington, IN, is 10% higher than the Indiana state average. At the state’s $7.25 minimum wage, a single parent would need to work almost 100 hours to afford rent for a two-bedroom apartment for their family.
Habitat for Humanity of Monroe County works to address these challenges by partnering with families in our community to build and purchase homes with affordable mortgages.
The FY 2026 Impact Report recognizes the collective efforts of homeowners, volunteers, donors, and community partners who make this work possible. As Habitat continues its mission, the organization remains focused on expanding affordable homeownership opportunities and building a stronger Monroe County.
To learn more about Habitat for Humanity of Monroe County’s work, visit its office at 213 E. Kirkwood Ave. in Bloomington, call (812) 331-4069, or email habitat@monroecountyhabitat.org.
