April 18, 2026 News, Partnerships, Volunteering

Villanova University Volunteers Join Habitat Philadelphia to Launch Pope Leo Village, a Faith‑Inspired Housing Initiative in North Philadelphia

PHILADELPHIA (April 18, 2026) – Habitat for Humanity Philadelphia today officially launched Pope Leo Village, a new, multi‑year, faith‑inspired housing and volunteer engagement initiative, during a Villanova University volunteer build day at an active rehabilitation project in Brewerytown, North Philadelphia.

Villanova University students volunteered alongside Habitat Philadelphia staff and neighbors, marking the public kickoff of Pope Leo Village in Philadelphia. The event featured remarks from Habitat leadership and the Rev. Peter M. Donohue, OSA, PhD, President of Villanova University, who also offered a blessing of the home currently under renovation. The University is the alma mater of Pope Leo XIV and has been a partner with Habitat for Humanity for more than three decades.

Pope Leo Village is a national, interfaith initiative created in honor of Pope Leo XIV, the first pope from the United States, and his commitment to social justice, service, and community. To date, 20 Habitat for Humanity affiliates have committed to build more than 235 affordable homes throughout the country.

In Philadelphia, Pope Leo Village will center on Lower North Philadelphia, including the Sharswood and Brewerytown neighborhoods, and will encompass 26 homeownership units through a combination of gut rehabs and new multi‑family construction.

Villanova University volunteers at Habitat Philadelphia’s rehabilitation project in Brewerytown for the Pope Leo Village Kick Off event | Photo by Habitat Philadelphia

“Pope Leo Village reflects the very heart of Habitat’s mission—to bring people together, put faith into action, and build safe, affordable homes alongside families,” said Corinne O’Connell, CEO of Habitat for Humanity Philadelphia. “Launching this initiative with Villanova University students and leadership highlights how service, partnership, and shared values can strengthen communities and create lasting impact here in North Philadelphia.”

During the event, a Habitat Philadelphia homeowner shared personal remarks about the impact of affordable homeownership and the importance of community partnership. A Villanova student volunteer also led a litany of dedication, underscoring the initiative’s emphasis on faith‑rooted service and reflection.

“Villanova’s Augustinian Catholic tradition calls us to unite faith, learning, and service in pursuit of the common good,” said Father Donohue. “Pope Leo Village gives our community the opportunity to live that mission in a tangible way—working alongside neighbors and Habitat to help build homes, dignity, and hope.”

Pope Leo Village is sponsored through a unique philanthropic partnership. An anonymous donor, inspired by Pope Leo XIV’s vision and commitment to social justice, is partnering with Habitat for Humanity affiliates throughout the country to open doors of opportunity alongside families in need of a decent place to live.

“My hope is that Pope Leo Village encourages young people and communities of faith to recognize housing as a social justice issue and service as a shared responsibility,” said the anonymous donor. “When we work side by side to build homes, we also build understanding, compassion, and the kind of community Pope Leo XIV has urged us to create.”

In addition to hands-on volunteer work, the April 18 kickoff event also included a shared meal and discussion centered on the concept of the Beloved Community, creating intentional space for dialogue, reflection, and relationship‑building among students, Habitat staff, and community members.

Over the coming months, Habitat for Humanity Philadelphia will host additional volunteer build days, faith‑based engagement events, and home dedications as part of Pope Leo Village. These engagements are designed to bring together youth, congregations, universities, and neighbors to advance affordable homeownership and community revitalization across North Philadelphia.

For more information about Pope Leo Village or to get involved, visit www.habitatphiladelphia.org/pope-leo.