2026 Women Build raises over $780,000, exceeds fundraising goal

The event highlighted the collective power of women to raise significant funds for and advance construction on houses that are purchased mostly by women through Habitat Chicago’s homeownership program. 
 

CHICAGO, IL – Over the course of October 2026, Habitat for Humanity Chicago’s 14th annual Women Build event proved that when women come out to support other women, community is built and impacts are made. 

 

As of midnight on October 31, 2026, the Women Build fundraising campaign had reached $775,002, an amount well over the original goal of $750,000 and that continues to climb.  

 

“Women Build is a powerful reminder that when people come together, they can create lasting change for families and communities,” said Habitat Chicago’s Executive Director, Jennifer Parks.  

 

Between October 1-30, nearly 700 women teamed up with Habitat Chicago to advance construction on the 20-unit Maple Park Landing townhome development in West Pullman and raised money to help more Chicago women overcome the gendered barriers to becoming first-time homeowners.  

 

“I’m motivated to come back every year, every year stronger, raising more, because I’ve seen the impact that it has,” said Tammy Pearce, Habitat Chicago’s former Board President and GRAEF’s Structural Engineer and Business Development Associate. “[The women who buy these homes] are so deserving, and it’s not just for them; it’s for their kids. It’s for their kids’ kids. We’re not just putting together wood and brick; we’re really building family and building community.” 

 

“I’ve probably had 30 different women build with me [over the years], and there’s not a single one that leaves and doesn’t feel like they’ve been changed,” said Amy Bilton, Vice President of Nyhan, Bambrick, Kinzie & Lowry and Habitat Chicago’s current Board President. “I keep coming back because [Women Build] creates such a beautiful community, and I know we’re doing something that will end up changing someone’s life.”

Parks continued, “Women Build is an ongoing endeavor, so if you missed this year, sign up and come out next year. And if you want to contribute, it’s not too late.”

“My ask for Women Build is to spread the word,” said Pearce. “Tell your sister, tell your friends, tell your coworker. Tell them to tell someone else, so we can really amplify the message.”  

Next year’s Women Build Team Leader recruitment begins in Spring 2027. Team Leaders recruit and lead up to nine women who collectively fundraise at least $8,500 by the end of Women Build and participate in one October build day on a Habitat Chicago construction site. Corporate sponsorships start at $2,500.