Last year I joined the Habitat Chicago's Women Build for the first time, and I'm proud to join this inspiring and determined group for a second year!

Homeownership is one of the most dynamic tools a person can use to build a strong and stable future. Unfortunately, this year has provided unprecedented challenges and more women than ever are finding themselves unable to achieve or afford the stability of homeownership.

From the gender pay gap and its impact on credit profiles, to uneven child care responsibilities that consume time and financial resources, to higher rates of mortgage denials despite superior payment performance, the hurdles keeping women from homeownership are high. Adding a challenging 2020 on top of that just makes the hurdle even higher.

This October, I'm once again grabbing my hammer, strapping on my tool belt, and joining Habitat Chicago's Women Build alongside 450 determined women to knock these barriers down. Together, we will help our fellow women become homeowners with Habitat Chicago, a nonprofit committed to building a world where everyone has a decent place to live. 

I've set my fundraising goal high, but this year -- even more so than others -- we need to support each other and reach out where we can. Whether you're able to give a monetary donation or words of support to help us reach our overall goal, please know that together we can -- and we will -- change the lives of these women forever and prove that there's nothing a group of committed women can't do.

Change happens one person at a time. I appreciate any support you can give and am looking forward to another successful year with Habitat Chicago's Women Build!

Thanks,
Jess