ECC Volunteers Lend a Hand at Women Build Event

A single mother of four will soon have a newly built home, thanks to a group of volunteers from Habitat for Humanity of Northern Fox Valley. On Wednesday, June 11, nine ECC volunteers participated in Women Build for Habitat for Humanity. This is the fourth year Elgin Community College employees have come together to help build or repair homes. This year, the group helped with the construction of a 4-bedroom, 2-bath home.  

Recipients of the home are required to put in 250 hours of “sweat equity” while under construction, said Anne Rand, community partnerships manager for Habitat for Humanity NFV, “...but many put in even more hours than that because they love being there, getting to know the volunteers, and contributing to the work.” This year, there were a total of 25 volunteer teams, including ECC’s group led by Mary Perkins, dean of liberal, visual, and performing arts.  

“It is so fun to be able to do something so meaningful,” said Kristina Garcia, associate vice president of teaching, learning, and student development. “I can give back in a way that is outside of what I normally do. It is nice to be with coworkers in a different setting outside of work.” This is Garcia’s fourth year participating in the building event.  

Ashley Zeman, senior director of marketing strategy, participated for the first time this year.  “I am very excited,” she said. “I am always seeking ways to support women in any way I can, especially single mothers. We are so fortunate to work somewhere that allows and encourages us to give back to our community.” 

The expected completion date of the Elgin home is April 2026.