After 20 years, the Women Build event returns to Habitat for Humanity of Marion County. The Women Build event empowers women here in Marion County to make a difference to families in immediate need of a safe, affordable home. Together, we can build homes, communities, and better futures for local families. 

When you donate to Habitat for Humanity’s Women Build, you’re doing more than supporting construction—you’re helping build strength, stability, and self-reliance through shelter. Your gift empowers women to lead the charge in addressing the housing crisis, while uplifting families in our community. Every dollar makes a difference. Join us in creating homes—and hope—for those who need it most.

Donate today and be part of something powerful.

FEATURED WOMEN BUILDER

We were honored to welcome Barbara Ferrentino of Ferrentino & Son Construction as our special guest at the 2025 Women Build Kickoff! Barbara’s connection to Habitat for Humanity of Marion County runs deep—she was a trailblazer in our very first Women Build in the 1990s, helping lay the foundation for generations of women builders to follow. As the first woman Certified Master Builder in Ocala, Barbara shattered barriers in a male-dominated field, co-founding Ferrentino & Son, LLC with her husband Eddie “Pop Pop” Ferrentino in 1984. Through decades of dedication, she’s not only built homes but also uplifted others—mentoring countless individuals, especially young women, and encouraging them to pursue excellence in the trades.

Now, Barbara is proudly passing the torch. We are thrilled to introduce her daughter-in-law, Shawna Ferrentino, who is leading her own Women Build team: Ferrentino’s Fierce Females. Shawna has been one of our strongest champions—even before this year’s campaign began—and we’re so excited to build alongside her. Her leadership continues the Ferrentino family legacy of building with heart, strength, and community spirit.