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Building Hope in Ahuachapán: A Global Village Impact Report
January 11-18, 2025
The recent Global Village trip to Ahuachapán, El Salvador, was more than just a construction project—it was an immersion into a community rich with resilience, kindness, and hope. Over the course of a week, Jenna Petersen, Donita Clark, and Andy Conger worked alongside local families and masons, contributing to the foundation of a home that will provide stability for generations to come.
A Warm Welcome and Hard Work
From the moment the team arrived, they were met with unwavering hospitality. Despite language barriers, the universal language of service and teamwork allowed for meaningful relationships to develop. The physical labor was intense, but the shared commitment to progress made every effort worthwhile. From digging trenches and moving sand to assembling rebar cages, each task played a crucial role in creating a lasting impact.
One of the most powerful moments occurred when a local mason was seen teaching his sons the trade—passing down knowledge that would empower them to provide for their own families in the future. This moment highlighted the deeper purpose of the work being done—not just building homes, but building futures.
A Deeper Look at the Community
Midweek, the group had the opportunity to visit Gesthemene, where Habitat for Humanity El Salvador has already helped build over 300 homes. They learned about the community’s growing infrastructure, including schools, a medical clinic, and vital social programs aimed at improving overall well-being. Meeting families who had already moved into safe, stable homes served as a powerful reminder of the transformational impact of homeownership.
In addition to construction work, the team engaged in cultural exchange activities, including learning to make pupusas, a staple dish of El Salvador, with members of the community. These experiences reinforced the idea that home is not just about shelter, but about fostering a sense of belonging.
A Lasting Impact
As the week came to a close, the team reflected on all that had been accomplished—not just in terms of construction but also in the relationships formed along the way. The gratitude expressed by the community was overwhelming, and the experience left a lasting impact on everyone involved.
This trip was more than just a volunteer effort—it was a testament to the power of partnership, resilience, and the shared belief that everyone deserves a place to call home.
Since 1990, Iowa Heartland Habitat for Humanity has tithed 10% of our unrestricted income to our global partnerships — serving 220+ families internationally. These funds allow families to stand on their own and build stronger, more stable communities. In addition to financial resources, Iowa Heartland Habitat provides volunteer teams to help build homes in El Salvador.
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500 Families Served
We’re proud to celebrate serving over 500 families since we started Iowa Heartland Habitat for Humanity in 1990.
"Reaching this milestone is a testament to the power of partnership and perseverance," said Ali Parrish, Executive Director. "Every home we build, or repair is more than just walls and a roof—it’s a foundation for hope, stability, and opportunity. We’re deeply grateful to our volunteers, donors, and community partners who make this life-changing work possible. Together, we’re building stronger neighborhoods and brighter futures."
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Program Social
Thank you to everyone who joined us for our Program Social! It was a truly memorable evening filled with connection, laughter, and shared purpose as we came together to celebrate the heart of our mission—our partnering families. The atmosphere was alive with meaningful conversations, joy, and the unmistakable sense of community that makes everything we do possible.
We’re so grateful to Harvest Vineyard Church for graciously hosting us in their welcoming space, creating the perfect setting for such a special gathering. A big shoutout to Flip’s for providing the delicious food that kept everyone smiling and satisfied throughout the evening.

To all who attended and supported this event, thank you for making it such a success. Together, we continue to build not just homes but also hope and stronger communities.
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908 Grant Ave is for Sale!
Welcome to 908 Grant Ave - a beautifully renovated 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom brick home! This residence blends classic charm with modern updates, offering 1,143 sq. ft. of move-in ready, low-maintenance space. Every detail has been thoughtfully designed to provide comfort and style.
Inside, you'll find a bright living room with a cozy fireplace, an updated kitchen with new quartz countertops, and a refreshed bathroom. The main bedroom opens to a sunporch, ideal for relaxing or as a home office. The unfinished attic offers great potential for additional space, while the oversized 1-stall garage provides convenient storage and parking.
With a new electrical panel, reglazed windows, and numerous updates, this home is as functional as it is beautiful. Plus, all proceeds benefit Iowa Heartland Habitat for Humanity's mission of building homes, communities, and hope.
Interested in buying or know someone who might be the perfect fit? Contact us today! Email Lynette Sorensen at twinpower.lynette@gmail.com or call 319-504-2789.
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Thank You Lincoln Savings Bank!
We are incredibly grateful to announce that we have received a generous $1,500 grant from Lincoln Savings Bank. Their commitment to our cause is directly helping to further our mission of ensuring that everyone has access to a decent place to live. This donation will help provide the resources we need to continue making a positive impact in our community. We are proud to partner with Lincoln Savings Bank as we work together to create safe, affordable housing for all.
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Deconstruction Team works at 1325 W 4th Street
Exciting progress at 1325 W 4th Street! Our site supervisors and deconstruction team volunteers began the deconstruction process, carefully removing trim to preserve it for the final remodel. But what exactly is deconstruction? It’s the systematic dismantling of a building to recover and reuse materials, rather than the traditional demolition that often creates waste. This environmentally friendly approach emphasizes recycling and repurposing materials like wood, bricks, fixtures, and appliances.
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Team Member with Heart
Andy’s responsibility is to make sure the construction projects stay on schedule and on budget to meet the large goals ahead of us. Largely, this means predicting and removing hurdles that would prevent our team from being successful in accomplishing our goals.
Andy gets joy from creating a space for people to love and serve others. Andy’s favorite part is seeing family, friends, neighbors, volunteers, donors, staff, and the board celebrating with the homeowner at the home dedication. Andy said, “They are ending the long chapter of working and fighting for something better and getting to start their next chapter as a proud homeowner.”
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Thank You Butler County Community Foundation
We want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Butler County Community Foundation for their generous $2,500 grant in support of our Critical Home Repair Program. This funding is incredibly important to us and will help us continue to provide essential repairs to families in need. Your generosity enables us to ensure that homes are safe, accessible, and livable for those who need it most. We are truly grateful for your support, and it will make a lasting impact in our community. Thank you for partnering with us to help make a difference!
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You're Invited to Immerse!
Join us for Immerse, an 8-session course where we’ll explore how we can love God and love our neighbors in ways that heal and help us grow together as a community. This course is facilitated by Laura Hoy, CCDA Neighborhood Developer. You can register by contacting Jenna Petersen at jpetersen@webuildhabitat.org or call 319-235-9946.
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Lunch & Learn with Police Chief Rob Duncan
What a fantastic Lunch & Learn! A huge thank you to Police Chief Rob Duncan and Captain McClellan for sharing their insights with us. Our 41 attendees had a great time learning about the Waterloo Police Department’s recruitment, training, wellness programs, and cutting-edge technology.
Big shoutout to The Boys & Girls Clubs Teen Center for hosting us in their beautiful upstairs meeting room! And thanks to Orchard Hill Church for partnering with us to provide the delicious lunch, as well as Waterloo First United Methodist Church, Impact Church of Hope, and City of Waterloo Neighborhood Services for their incredible support!
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Contractor with Heart
We’re excited to shine a spotlight on one of our incredible long-time partners: Mike Fereday Heating and Air Conditioning! Every year, they generously provide us with a full HVAC system—including materials and installation services. Their ongoing support means so much to us, and Shawn Murphy, a key member of the Mike Fereday team, has become a trusted friend we can always count on. We’re so grateful for their dedication, expertise, and the heart they bring to everything they do.
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Raise the Roof Dinner & Auction Tickets
Tickets are officially on sale for Raise the Roof Dinner and Auction! Join us for an unforgettable evening of delicious food, amazing auction items, and community support. With only 200 spots available, don't wait – grab your ticket for just $50 before they're gone!
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Join Us for Women Build 2025
This amazing experience is all about engaging, empowering, and inspiring volunteers every step of the way. By becoming a Women Build Sponsor, you’re not just supporting a cause – you’re becoming part of something truly inspiring!
Contact Rylee Petersen at rpetersen@webuildhabitat.org or call (319) 235-9946 for more information or visit our website Events | Iowa Heartland Habitat for Humanity.
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Women Build 2024 Recap Videos | |
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805 West 5th St., Waterloo, IA 50702
(319) 235-9946
Monday-Friday 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Saturday and Sunday Closed
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4107 Hammond Ave., Waterloo, IA 50701
(319) 883-3331
Tuesday-Friday 9:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Saturday 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Sunday and Monday Closed
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