As the affordable housing crisis continues to affect families across the country, Habitat for Humanity of Walton County is proving that women are not only part of the solution, but they’re also leading it.
At the center of this movement is Teresa Jones, CEO of Habitat for Humanity of Walton County, who has led the organization for the past 14 years with purpose and heart. Under her leadership, Habitat has built dozens of homes for local families earning less than 80% of the area’s median income. And with each home, they’ve built hope.
“Affordable housing is the foundation of a stronger future,” Teresa says. “And when women lead, communities rise.”
Teresa has been instrumental in transforming Habitat into a space where women are not just beneficiaries of affordable housing. They are also its builders, funders and advocates.
“Some of our most trusted core volunteers are women who have worked alongside me for over a decade,” she shares. “When women come together, they’re not just constructing walls and roofs. They’re building confidence, strength and a community of support.”
On February 13, 2026, Habitat will host its eighth annual Hard Hats and High Heels luncheon at the Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. This highly anticipated event celebrates the powerful intersection of female leadership, community support, and the mission to provide affordable housing through Habitat’s Women Build program.
The Hard Hats and High Heels luncheon is more than just a fundraiser. It’s a celebration of what happens when women support each other. This year’s event is sponsored in loving memory of longtime Habitat volunteer Barbara Carver, who passed away in 2024. Barb's passion for helping others left an indelible mark on our community.
Highlights of the event include a plated lunch, signature welcome drink, games, raffles and a wine pull. Keynote speaker Catherine Brannon will deliver a powerful message on how communities thrive when women uplift one another. Tickets are available on Habitat’s website for $75, with an early bird discount of $65 available through January 16, 2026.
Pictured at left, local business owner Jessica Proffitt Bracken and Teresa Jones are enjoying another event that benefits Habitat for Humanity: the decade-long annual Bloody Mary Festival hosted The Market Shops.
“We are deeply honored to be the beneficiary of the Bloody Mary Festival,” Teresa says. “The Market Shops and the incredible community that gathers for this event help make the dream of homeownership a reality for hardworking families in Walton County.”
The new year will see the launch of the Spring 2026 Women Build Season, which gives women the opportunity to learn hands-on construction skills on a job site and participate in a power tool training workshop.
Since its founding in 1996, Habitat for Humanity of Walton County has remained steadfast in its mission to build and improve homes for individuals and families in need of a place to live. Habitat homeowners help build their own homes alongside volunteers and pay an affordable mortgage, ultimately achieving the strength, stability and independence they need to create a better life for themselves and for their families.
Through initiatives like Women Build and events like the Bloody Mary Festival, Hard Hats and High Heels, and the South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival, Habitat continues to bring people together to build homes and futures. Whether you pick up a hammer or put on your heels, your support matters. Every ticket purchased, every sponsorship, every hour volunteered brings us closer to a Walton County where everyone has a decent place to live.
To get involved, email info@waltoncountyhabitat or call 850-608-2015.
“Affordable housing is the foundation of a stronger future.”
“They’re building confidence, strength and a community of support.”