Habitat for Humanity builds awareness and funds at its 2026 Building Hope Gala

THE WOODLANDS, TX – Recently, community leaders and philanthropic luminaries came together at The Woodlands Waterway Marriott for Habitat for Humanity’s 13th annual fundraising gala.

‘Casa de Corazón – the 2026 Building Hope Gala,’ chaired by Tina Rivera and emceed by Michelle Little, brought a decidedly Latin feel to the festivities, including special treats on the menu and a mariachi band. BMW of The Woodlands was the presenting sponsor.

Gala honorees included Stephen and Barbara Crain for their decades of faithful service and leadership, and the members of the Marble Creek Planning and Diligence Committees for their pivotal role in shaping the future Habitat MCTX neighborhood in Magnolia.

Habitat for Humanity of Montgomery County empowers communities through safe and affordable housing. Since its establishment in 1989, it has created partnerships with dedicated volunteers, community members, and aspiring homeowners, working collaboratively to construct affordable homes that contribute to developing secure and thriving communities. An example of the organization’s outreach is Habitat for Humanity MCTX Restore, a unique philanthropic retail establishment and donation center that offers a diverse array of new and gently used items.

“Serving as Chair of the gala has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my life. Through this journey, I have witnessed firsthand the dedication of volunteers, the generosity of our community, and the determination of families who refuse to give up on the dream of homeownership,” said Rivera.

Donors for the gala’s raffle items included Avi Davidoff of Leon Diamond and Laura and David Piccione. Live auction donors included Vander Dys Fine Jewelers, Chef Austin Simmons, Harwin Management LLC, Mark Pharo Extraordinary Jewels, Insperity, and arc electric + lighting. The event also featured a bid board for a silent auction.

While the final amount raised is still being tallied, last year’s Kentucky Derby-themed gala broke records when it raised more than one million dollars, with this year’s gala committee hoping for a repeat.