September 18, 2026 Partnerships, Repair, Volunteering
More Than 140 Volunteers Unite for 'Building on Faith' Neighborhood Revitalization Effort
PHILADELPHIA (September 18, 2026) – More than 140 volunteers from local faith communities, high schools, colleges, and neighborhood organizations began two days of service Friday with Habitat for Humanity Philadelphia for Building on Faith, a block build focused on home repairs, neighborhood revitalization, and community connection in Brewerytown. The effort is part of the broader Pope Leo Village initiative, an interfaith, multi-city movement that brings together people of different backgrounds in support of affordable housing and stronger neighborhoods.
More than 60 students, residents, and members of faith communities kick off day 1 of Building on Faith, September 18, 2026. | Photo by Cary Porter
On Friday, volunteers worked alongside Habitat Philadelphia staff and neighborhood residents to complete critical home repairs, façade improvements, painting projects, landscaping, and block clean-up activities on and around the 1400 block of North Hollywood Street. Four of the homes will be fully renovated and sold to first-time home buyers through Habitat’s homeownership program.
The day combined hands-on service with opportunities for reflection and relationship-building. During a shared lunchtime gathering, volunteers participated in guided conversations about faith, service, community, and housing led by Dr. Wesley Proctor, Executive Administrator and Youth Pastor at Victory Christian Center of Philadelphia. Participants from a variety of backgrounds reflected on the values that inspire them to serve and how working alongside neighbors can help break down barriers to understanding.
Students from Saint Joseph’s University paint a home’s facade during Building on Faith, September 18, 2026. | Photo by Grace Brombach
“Building on Faith shows what is possible when people come together in service of their neighbors,” said Corinne O’Connell, CEO of Habitat for Humanity Philadelphia. “Every volunteer helped strengthen this community and moved us closer to a future where more families have a safe, affordable place to call home.”
Avery Martinez, an attorney who grew up in a Habitat home, spoke during Friday’s kick-off program:
“I grew up in a Habitat home, and it had a really big impact on me and who I am today,” he said. “For me, a home means stability and a sense of security. I’m excited to see Habitat expand and grow, and to see the community involvement is really inspiring.”
Volunteers demo a home on N Holloywood St in Brewerytown as part of the Building on Faith event, September 18, 2026. | Photo by Cary Porter
In 22 cities across the country, the Pope Leo Village initiative is bringing together students and faith communities to support the creation of more than 255 affordable homes in the Habitat for Humanity model. In Philadelphia, a combination of gut rehabs and new multi-family construction will open the door to 26 homeownership opportunities in Lower North Philadelphia and Brewerytown.
The initiative was inspired by an anonymous donor whose support reflects the values of service and social justice championed by Pope Leo XIV, the first pope from the United States.
“The donor wanted to express gratitude to every volunteer serving through Building on Faith,” Habitat Philadelphia shared on their behalf. “By serving together, you are building a community of hope for your neighbors. As Pope Leo XIV reminds us, service matters deeply when so many families need quality affordable housing. Your example inspires others to strengthen communities through compassion and action.”
Students from Liguori Academy assemble Adirondack Chairs as part of the Building on Faith event, September 18, 2026. | Photo by Cary Porter
Kendel, a senior at Liguori Academy, said “I’ve done service work before, but never hands-on like this. I like it. It makes me feel good that I’m helping somebody out. My mom always taught me to give back to the community and don’t forget where you come from.”
Building on Faith continues Saturday, with more group volunteer opportunities available in the coming months. For more information about Pope Leo Village and Habitat for Humanity Philadelphia, visit www.habitatphiladelphia.org/pope-leo-village.
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