Habitat for Humanity Hosts 2026 Veterans Build across Chicagoland

Habitat for Humanity of Illinois is launching the sixth annual Veterans Build Veterans Build on November 6–7 at seven build sites across the Chicagoland region. The event brings together veterans, volunteers, and community members to highlight the critical need for affordable housing and home repairs for military families.

The theme Service Never Ends honors the ongoing dedication of veterans—both in uniform and beyond—by turning a commitment to serve into meaningful action. Through Veterans Build, military-connected and civilian volunteers come together to build homes, complete critical repairs, and support programs that expand access to safe, affordable housing for veterans and their families.

Brian, a U.S. Navy veteran who served aboard the USS David R. Ray, has taken pride in maintaining his home for 22 years, but aging windows, deteriorating siding, and an outdated HVAC system created uncertainty about what might break next. “I just wanted to know my home was safe and protected,” Brian shared. With support from Lake-McHenry Habitat for Humanity, his home now has new energy-efficient windows and siding, along with critical furnace and electrical updates, making it safer and more comfortable. Brian continues to serve fellow veterans through Veterans Path to Hope, providing peer support and helping veterans in need.

Since its launch in 2021, Veterans Build has supported more than 100 veterans across the region through home construction, rehabilitation, and critical home repairs, with nearly 700 volunteers contributing their time and skills. Beyond improving housing, the program creates opportunities for veterans to continue serving, support fellow veterans, and strengthen their communities—bringing the spirit of Service Never Ends to life.

“Veterans Build is a meaningful way to honor the service of those who have served our country while helping veterans and families achieve greater housing stability,” said Leslie Rodriguez, Director of Veteran and Repair Programs for Habitat for Humanity of Illinois and a U.S. Navy veteran. “When veterans come together to build, repair, and support one another, they continue a tradition of service that strengthens our communities. Service Never Ends is more than a theme—it’s a commitment to keep showing up for those who have served.”

This year, veterans and volunteers from local veteran organizations—including Chicago Veterans and Women Marines Association—will participate alongside corporate veteran employee groups, including those from Ace Hardware, The Cigna Group, Nicor Gas, UL Solutions, US Bank, Vistex, and Wesco. Special thanks to Chick-fil-A for providing lunch at all build sites.

The 2026 Veterans Build is the first held under Habitat for Humanity of Illinois, following the June 30 merger of Chicagoland Habitat for Humanity and Habitat for Humanity of Illinois. The merger brings together the organizations to create a more unified, coordinated, and effective support system for local Habitat affiliates, while continuing to strengthen housing opportunities for families and veterans throughout Chicagoland and greater Illinois.

For more information or to donate, visit habitatillinois.org/VeteransBuild #ServiceNeverEnds #2026VeteransBuild