Habitat launches ‘House Parties for Homes’ fundraisers

Habitat for Humanity of the Lowcountry has introduced a new community-based fundraising effort aimed at addressing the region’s growing need for affordable housing.

The initiative, called “House Parties for Homes,” encourages residents to host small gatherings that raise both funds and awareness for the organization’s homebuilding and repair programs in Beaufort and Jasper counties.

The effort began earlier this year with two events hosted by local supporters Kevin Anton and Shellia Jenkins Ward, whose gatherings drew dozens of attendees and generated more than $20,000 combined.

Anton hosted a February cocktail-style event at the Fripp Island Community Centre, raising $10,275 to support construction of a third Habitat home sponsored by the Fripp Island community. He said organizing the event was straightforward.

“Putting the party on was pretty easy,” Anton said. “We invited about 120 people and had about a 66% acceptance.” He added, “The most work was sending out the thank you notes. Thank God Irene is a good sport.”

Ward’s event, held April 11 at the Battery Point Clubhouse, was organized as part of her 65th birthday celebration. More than 75 people attended, including friends, family and former classmates, contributing $10,529 as of April 21, with additional donations expected.

“I wanted to highlight the love people have for the Habitat organization and the great work it does by providing opportunity to our community for affordable homeowners,” Ward said.

She added that the event reflected a personal milestone as well as a broader purpose.

“I also wanted my 65th birthday to be filled with love,” she said. “I invited family, friends and neighbors to share their love by giving to this organization instead of giving to me. God’s love is amazing, isn’t it? I take no credit for this; I was just the vessel he used to get the work done.”

Habitat for Humanity of the Lowcountry CEO Brenda Dooley said the early events demonstrate how community involvement can drive support for housing initiatives.

“House Parties for Homes is all about bringing people together in a personal and meaningful way,” Dooley said. “Kevin and Shellia set the tone beautifully with their events, creating spaces where guests could connect with our mission and see firsthand how they can make a difference.”

In addition to raising funds, organizers said the gatherings helped expand the organization’s network of volunteers and supporters, reinforcing its long-standing model of community-driven housing solutions.

Since its founding in 1990, Habitat for Humanity of the Lowcountry has partnered with local families to build and repair homes, helping nearly 200 families achieve stable housing.

The organization plans to expand the House Parties for Homes initiative and is encouraging others in the community to host similar events.
“Anyone can be a host,” Dooley said. “Whether it’s a small gathering or a larger celebration, every event helps us build more than homes. We’re building hope, stability and opportunity.”

For more information about hosting an event or supporting Habitat for Humanity of the Lowcountry, contact Michele Barker at 843-522-3500, ext. 3004, or email michele@lowcountryhabitat.org.