Central Oklahoma Habitat for Humanity to Kick Off Women Build 2026 on May 16 (updated video added)

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Central Oklahoma Habitat for Humanity (COHFH) is encouraging volunteers to “Build Like a Woman” during its Women Build 2026. This volunteer initiative empowers local women to help build a home while raising awareness of the ongoing need for affordable housing in Central Oklahoma.

Central Oklahoma Habitat for Humanity’s 2026 Women Build begins May 16, with additional volunteer opportunities for Women Build continuing in the weeks ahead. The kickoff event runs from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. and invites volunteers to take part in hands-on homebuilding alongside Habitat’s skilled staff. Participants will assist with key construction activities while supporting affordable homeownership opportunities for local families.

The first event is a framing day and begins at 8 a.m. Saturday, May 16, at the future home of Chandra B., located in Cornerstone Creek, Oklahoma City. Habitat welcomes volunteers of all skill levels.

Future Habitat homeowner Chandra is a single mother and registered medical assistant for Integris Health. She wrote in her New Home Construction program application that she wants to be able to pass down her home someday to her daughter Kaori, 14, and son Aston, 9.

“This home is something that I’ve prayed for, something that I have worked hard for and something that I deserve,” Chandra stated. “I want to be an encouragement to let people know that all things are possible and it will be better, no matter how high or low.”

COHFH Chair/CEO Ann Felton Gilliland said Women Build 2026 is part of a nationwide initiative that empowers women to take an active role in building stronger communities while helping families with low-to moderate-incomes achieve stability through homeownership.

“The Women Build is about more than construction — it’s about community, empowerment and creating opportunities for individuals and families to build a better future,” Felton Gilliland said. “It’s also a lot of fun. Our volunteers often work side-by-side with Habitat homeowners as they build their homes.”

Volunteers will work under the guidance of experienced site supervisors, contributing to the construction of a home that a qualifying family will purchase with a mortgage, help build through sweat equity and buy at cost without a down payment.

What: Women Build 2026 Kickoff
When: 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saturday, May 16
Where: Near Cornerstone Creek in far northwest Oklahoma City

Media are invited to attend and capture volunteers in action. Additional build dates are available in the video below.

For more information and to sign up to volunteer, visit www.helpmyhabitat.com. To learn more about Habitat, visit www.cohfh.org. To donate, text MAKEHOMEHAPPEN to 50155 or call 405-232-4828.

Click below for our latest Women Build video with an updated 2026 schedule and sign up today!

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