Installing windows may not be part of a typical day for members of United Way of Central Alabama’s (UWCA) Women United donor network, but during their annual volunteer day with Habitat for Humanity Greater Birmingham, that was exactly what they came prepared to do.
This year, the group traded its usual routines for a day on the jobsite at Habitat’s new YMCA Neighborhood in Roebuck, where 22 affordable homes are planned. Working alongside Habitat staff, Women United members helped install windows, a door and doorknobs in one of the homes, gaining hands-on experience with the construction process while moving it another step closer to completion.
“I’m always grateful for opportunities where we can roll up our sleeves and give back in a tangible way,” said Stephanie Smith of Regions and longtime United Way supporter. “Habitat gives Women United members the chance to spend time together while doing something that will directly benefit a local family.”
A Neighborhood Designed With Families in Mind
The homes taking shape in Roebuck are part of a larger vision.
Habitat for Humanity Greater Birmingham is developing 22 affordable homes in the YMCA Neighborhood in Roebuck, with a focus not only on making homeownership more accessible but also on connecting families with resources close to home.
Residents will be near Christ Health Center and within walking distance of United Way partner agencies including YMCA of Greater Birmingham and Impact Family Counseling. That puts healthcare, youth and family programming, counseling and other services close to home.
The families who will eventually live there also have a role in building their futures as homeowners. Habitat homeowners contribute sweat equity, complete financial and homeownership education and purchase their homes through affordable, zero-interest mortgages.
The goal is to create a foundation for long-term stability that extends beyond the day a family moves in.
“Giving a family the keys is an exciting moment, but our work doesn’t start and end there,” said Habitat Site Supervisor Phil Regulinski. “We want homeowners to have the knowledge, resources and support they need to succeed long after they move into their homes.”
A Tradition That Keeps Women United Coming Back
Women United’s Habitat volunteer day has become an annual tradition, though no two builds look exactly the same.
Different neighborhoods bring different projects and jobs to tackle. What remains consistent is the opportunity for members to serve together and get an up-close look at the work happening across Central Alabama.
Women United brings together philanthropic women who invest their time, resources and leadership in creating opportunities for others. Days like this one put members alongside the organizations and people doing that work in the community.
“Habitat for Humanity means a lot to me,” said Women United member DeKayla Johnson. “Owning a home can create so much stability for a family. I appreciate the way Habitat helps make that possibility more accessible for people who might otherwise face barriers to getting there.”
To learn more about Women United, click here.