Within Pleasant Grove, a new neighborhood called Providence Grove is steadily taking shape. This Habitat for Humanity Greater Birmingham initiative broke ground in August and will ultimately create 27 affordable homes for hardworking families.
Among the most recent volunteers helping to bring the project to life were members of Women United, a United Way of Central Alabama (UWCA) donor network.
15 dedicated volunteers spent an entire day working on two separate homes in different stages of construction. Work on these houses began shortly after Habitat’s weeklong Home Builders Blitz, where eight new Providence Grove homes were built in just seven days.
Home Is Where the Heart Is
These Women United members showed that they have a heart for giving and helping others achieve the dream of homeownership. For them, the day was all about lending a hand wherever help was needed. Some volunteers cleared dust and dirt from the floors and wiped down walls in preparation for painting, while others framed and put up walls for another house still in its early stages of construction.
“I always feel grateful to be in a position to give back,” said Stephanie Smith of Regions and longtime United Way supporter. “Volunteering with Habitat for Humanity is a great opportunity for Women United members to connect with each other while supporting a local family.”
As work continued, a future homeowner drove by to see the progress. “It’s exciting to see it all come together,” said the future Habitat homeowner. She added that she and other neighbors drive by at least once a week to see the progress– excited not only about their own homes but also about the new neighborhood taking shape.
Designed to Build Long-Term Stability
As a proud United Way of Central Alabama partner, Habitat for Humanity works to make homeownership more accessible and strengthen local neighborhoods. Their approach is rooted in partnership: homes aren’t simply provided; they’re built alongside future homeowners. Families contribute “sweat equity” by helping construct their own homes and complete financial and homeownership education. When the work is done, they purchase their homes through an affordable, zero-interest mortgage, creating stability and opportunity for generations to come.
“Handing over keys is one step,” said Site Supervisor Phil Regulinski. “However, ensuring families have what they need to be successful in the long-term is the real goal.”
Volunteering with Habitat for Humanity reflects Women United’s broader mission to support programs that create lasting change across Central Alabama.
“Habitat for Humanity is a cause close to my heart,” said Women United Steering Committee member Andrea Florio. “Homeownership is such an important step for families, and I value how Habitat helps remove the barriers that can make it out of reach.”