10/29/2026
Last Thursday night, the Hilton Mystic felt like a family reunion, and that’s exactly what it was. 💙
Close to 150 volunteers, homeowners, community partners, elected officials, and friends joined us for Building Hope & Homes, a celebration of nearly 40 years of Habitat for Humanity of Eastern Connecticut building homes and strengthening communities across our region.
Some of the moments we’ll carry with us:
🏆 Congressman Joe Courtney was honored with the Habitat Hero Award for his steadfast support of affordable housing.
🏆 Charlie Ryan, a longtime volunteer, received the Bette Mahon Award for Exceptional Service. Thank you for your years of dedication, Charlie.
🏡 Habitat homeowners, from families who moved in 20 years ago to those who moved in recently, shared what a safe, stable, affordable home has meant for them. There wasn’t a dry eye in the room.
We are so grateful to our partners:
👏 Centreville Bank for sponsoring the evening
👏 ECHOHomes for your table support
👏 Teresa Hnat Studio for a beautiful video
And thank you to everyone who came, volunteered, donated, or advocated for us. You’re the reason families in Eastern Connecticut have a place to call home.
👉 Want to help open the door for the next family? Volunteer, donate, or learn more at https://habitatect.org/.
📸 Tag yourself and your friends in the photos below!