GOLDSBORO, N.C. — Habitat for Humanity of Goldsboro-Wayne is bringing community leaders, elected officials, and volunteers together to build homes and strengthen understanding around affordable housing through its recent Advocacy Build at the MNR Heights project.
During a recent interview on 98.3 WGBR with Jeff Farrow, Executive Director Matthew Whittle said the organization is continuing to see strong momentum this spring as volunteers from across the community step forward to support the mission.
“We have elected officials and city and county staff, as well as candidates for elected office, coming out to the job sites,” Whittle said. “They’re going to learn a little bit about who we are, what we do, and the impact we have in the community — and then we’re going to get them to swing a hammer for a few minutes.”
On April 16, Habitat for Humanity officially kicked off its Advocacy Build with special guests Buck Newton and a team member representing Don Davis, Anthony Warren. While on site, the group met with one of Habitat’s future homeowners and heard firsthand how affordable homeownership will create stability, opportunity, and a brighter future for her family.
Organizers say conversations like these are powerful reminders of why advocacy for affordable housing remains critical in the community.
The Advocacy Build continued with additional community leaders stepping onto the site to not only help build homes but also learn more about the real impact safe, affordable housing can have for hardworking families.
One of the highlights of the event was the opportunity for guests to meet Ms. Wooten, a future homeowner whose story resonated strongly with those in attendance.
“If you’ve ever met her, you already know she is truly a gift, full of warmth, resilience, and a deep belief in what homeownership can mean for a family,” Habitat leaders shared. “Her story is a powerful reminder of why this work matters.”
Advocacy Builds are designed to give leaders a firsthand look at Habitat’s mission while building relationships and awareness about the need for affordable housing.
“When we come together — building homes, building relationships, and building awareness — we move one step closer to a future where every hardworking family has a safe, affordable place to call home,” organizers said.
Habitat leaders expressed gratitude to the community advocates and officials who participated, noting that the effort goes beyond construction.
“Together, we’re not just building homes,” organizers said. “We’re building understanding, partnerships, and stronger communities.”
In addition to the Advocacy Build, Habitat for Humanity of Goldsboro-Wayne continues work on the McNair Heights development, which Whittle described as a transformational project for both families and the broader community.
“This is a transformational project,” Whittle said. “It’s transformational for the families, and it’s transformational for the community. We want everybody to be part of that.”
The organization has also seen a busy spring season, with volunteers from churches, fraternities, sororities, youth groups, colleges, and local businesses stepping forward to help. Weekend volunteer opportunities — particularly Saturdays — are filling quickly.
Habitat is also preparing to expand its summer youth program following the success of last year’s initiative. Plans are underway for a program expected to take place in late June through early July, with details to be released soon.
Additionally, Habitat leaders announced new kitchenware items arriving soon at the Habitat ReStore, encouraging community members to follow social media for updates.
Those interested in volunteering or learning more about Habitat for Humanity of Goldsboro-Wayne are encouraged to visit the organization’s website or contact the office directly.
