‘So grateful’: Bend-Redmond Habitat for Humanity’s ‘Women Build Week’ makes emotional impact

(Update: adding comments from CEO, volunteer, and future homeowner)

REDMOND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- More than 100 volunteers spent the week building homes and building community during Bend-Redmond Habitat for Humanity’s 2026 Women Build Week at the Timber Cottages development in Redmond.

The week-long initiative focused on empowering women through affordable homeownership and hands-on construction experience, while helping complete the final homes in the 13-home neighborhood.

According to Bend-Redmond Habitat for Humanity, 11 of the 13 homes at Timber Cottages will go to women-led households, including eight single mothers.

The future homeowners include local workers helping keep Central Oregon running, including a TSA officer at Redmond Airport, a certified nursing assistant at St. Charles Health System, and a school custodian.

Future homeowner Michelle said the opportunity has changed the way she views her future.

“I just feel like dreaming is much more possible now that I have Habitat behind my name and Saint Charles behind my name,” Michelle said. “I just think we’re only going to go up from here and things are only going to get better. And I am just so grateful.”

Throughout the week, volunteers worked on siding, trim, fencing, cabinets, and finish work alongside Habitat staff and future homeowners.

For volunteer Susan Gutowsky, who traveled from Fort Collins to participate, the mission behind the construction was what inspired her to join.

“The thing that makes me happy is that when they do finally enter their home, they’ve worked for it,” Gutowsky said. “They often have a family that’s going to enjoy the security and the safety of a roof over their head, but that they know what they’re doing and it’s going to be lasting.”

Habitat leaders say the homes are designed to provide long-term stability through energy-efficient construction and predictable housing costs. The organization estimates utility bills for the net-zero homes could average around $15 per month.

Bend-Redmond Habitat for Humanity CEO Carly Cogan encouraged volunteers to continue advocating for affordable housing beyond the build site.

“You’ve made the decision to show up, to contribute, to be a part of something that’s bigger than any one of us,” Cogan said. “The question now is not whether you’re a builder. The question is what you choose to build next.”

The Timber Cottages project is expected to be completed later this year.