Since breaking ground in September, construction has continued in Roebuck’s new YMCA Neighborhood. Across the site, Habitat for Humanity Greater Birmingham is working with partners and volunteers to build 22 affordable homes for families in the community.
Members of United Way of Central Alabama’s (UWCA) Young Philanthropists Society (YPS) recently joined the effort, spending a day on-site for their first Habitat for Humanity build.
“We’re always looking for ways to connect our members to the work,” said Hannan Mackey, Individual Giving Officer for YPS. “This was a natural fit. It gave people a chance to show up and be part of something that will change someone’s life in the community.”
For many volunteers, the experience offered a tangible way to see impact in real time.
“It never gets old — being out on a build site,” said Elly Arnold of AmFirst, who often participates in Habitat builds through her company and is a YPS Steering Committee member. “You can see the progress throughout the day, and it reminds you that what you’re doing matters.”
A Neighborhood Designed for Accessibility
Plans for the area go beyond housing. The development is part of a broader vision to create a walkable, resource-connected neighborhood where families can easily access the services they need.
Future homeowners will live within close reach of healthcare services through Christ Health Center and also within walking distance of United Way partner agencies, including:
• Youth and family programming at YMCA of Greater Birmingham.
• Counseling and mental health support from Impact Family Counseling.
This proximity helps remove barriers such as transportation. It will also make it easier for families to stay connected to care and support.
“You can see how intentional everything is here,” said Cortez Bennett of Regions, a YPS Steering Committee member. “It’s meaningful to be part of something that helps families build stability and stay connected to resources.”
Supporting the Journey to Homeownership
Habitat builds each home in partnership with future homeowners, volunteers and community supporters. Families contribute sweat equity, complete financial and homeownership education and purchase their homes through zero-interest mortgages.
This model creates long-term stability and keeps affordable homes within reach for families who may not otherwise have the opportunity.
“Families will gain safe and stable housing while living within walking distance of healthcare, counseling and wellness services,” said Eric Click, Habitat for Humanity Greater Birmingham’s Construction Site Supervisor. “That strengthens the entire community.”
For YPS, this first build marks one of many opportunities for members to engage more directly in that work.