For Bethany Stricker, applying to Habitat for Humanity South Sarasota County came at a moment of uncertainty. Living temporarily with her parents as they prepared to sell their home, she faced a narrowing search for affordable housing and growing concern about what came next.
“My discovery of Habitat’s homeownership program happened at just the right time,” she said. “I’m in a temporary housing situation, and the search for affordable housing had left me feeling hopeless. Habitat for Humanity was an answered prayer when I wasn’t sure what my next steps would be.”
Habitat’s path to homeownership begins with a roughly three-month application and approval process that includes references, financial review, and an assessment of readiness to partner. Once accepted, families typically spend about a year and a half completing program requirements. Sweat-equity hours range from 150 hours for single-adult households to 300 hours for two-adult families, with many participants completing their final hours working directly on their own homes—learning systems, maintenance, and basic repairs firsthand.
Bethany admitted she was unsure about the construction side of the journey. With no building experience, she worried about keeping up on the job site. “I was nervous about how difficult it might be to help build homes with no construction experience,” she said. “Fortunately, the volunteer team was amazing and patient, teaching me everything I needed to know.”
Those early nerves faded quickly, especially during Women Build 2025, a weeklong event that brought together female volunteers, sponsors, and future homeowners to work side by side. Women Build places women at the forefront of construction, creating an atmosphere of encouragement, teamwork, and shared purpose. For Bethany, the experience was empowering.
“The sweat-equity and volunteer hours go by faster than anticipated,” she said. “Being there with so many supportive women made it feel less intimidating and more inspiring.”
Working on the construction site reshaped how Bethany thinks about homeownership. Seeing each stage of the build—from framing to finishes—gave her a new appreciation for what goes into creating a safe, lasting home. “It’s shown me how much time, effort, and love go into these homes,” she explained, “and how important it is to maintain everything they provide.”
That perspective matters most when she thinks about her daughter. “It means everything,” Bethany said. “Home is where the heart is—a place where we’ll build happy memories and possibly lifelong friendships. It also means a constant feeling of security and familiarity.” She added, “My daughter already pictures us living in our new home.”
As Bethany nears the final stretch of her Habitat journey, watching the house take shape has been emotional. “It’s been unforgettable watching our home take shape,” she said. “Closing day is something we’ve looked forward to for months, and it’s been worth the wait.”
Habitat’s support continues beyond construction, with long-term homeowner services that help families remain stable. Since 1992, Habitat for Humanity South Sarasota County (HHSSC) has built and renovated safe, energy-efficient, affordable homes.
For Bethany, the journey has brought confidence and possibility. “A fresh start feels close,” she said with a smile. “I’m truly blessed and grateful for this opportunity.”
Learn more about the HHSS program, or how to donate “time or treasure” at habitatsouthsarasota.org.