Since 1990, Iowa Heartland Habitat for Humanity has tithed 10% of our unrestricted income to our global partnerships — serving 220+ families internationally.
These funds allow families to stand on their own and build stronger, more stable communities. In addition to financial resources, Iowa Heartland Habitat provides volunteer teams to help build homes in El Salvador.
Each quarter, we also support Koinonia Farm in Americus, Georgia—the birthplace of Habitat for Humanity—honoring the legacy of community and service that started it all.
In addition to our international giving, we invest directly in our own community by supporting local organizations that provide essential resources and services.
Our total tithe giving in 2024 reached $78,868, reinforcing our commitment to building stronger communities both near and far.
We proudly contributed to the following LOCAL partners:
Adaptability Plus, Antioch Baptist Church, Cedar Valley Church, Celebration Church, Central Christian Church, Faith Temple Baptist Church, Grace Baptist Church, Grout Museum District, Harvest Vineyard Church, Hope City Church, House of Hope, Northeast Iowa Food Bank, Riverview Ministries, Royal Legacy Christian Academy, St. Paul's United Methodist Church, Salvation Army, Try Pie Bakery, 24/7 Blac, and Waterloo Public Library.
Each quarter, we also support Koinonia Farm in Americus, Georgia—the birthplace of Habitat for Humanity—honoring the legacy of community and service that started it all.
In addition to our international giving, we invest directly in our own community by supporting local organizations that provide essential resources and services.
Our total tithe giving in 2024 reached $78,868, reinforcing our commitment to building stronger communities both near and far.
We proudly contributed to the following LOCAL partners:
Adaptability Plus, Antioch Baptist Church, Cedar Valley Church, Celebration Church, Central Christian Church, Faith Temple Baptist Church, Grace Baptist Church, Grout Museum District, Harvest Vineyard Church, Hope City Church, House of Hope, Northeast Iowa Food Bank, Riverview Ministries, Royal Legacy Christian Academy, St. Paul's United Methodist Church, Salvation Army, Try Pie Bakery, 24/7 Blac, and Waterloo Public Library.
January 11-18, 2025
Global Village Impact Report
The recent Global Village trip to Ahuachapán, El Salvador, was more than just a construction project—it was an immersion into a community rich with resilience, kindness, and hope. Over the course of a week, Jenna Petersen, Donita Clark, and Andy Conger worked alongside local families and masons, contributing to the foundation of a home that will provide stability for generations to come.
A Warm Welcome and Hard Work
From the moment the team arrived, they were met with unwavering hospitality. Despite language barriers, the universal language of service and teamwork allowed for meaningful relationships to develop. The physical labor was intense, but the shared commitment to progress made every effort worthwhile. From digging trenches and moving sand to assembling rebar cages, each task played a crucial role in creating a lasting impact.
One of the most powerful moments occurred when a local mason was seen teaching his sons the trade—passing down knowledge that would empower them to provide for their own families in the future. This moment highlighted the deeper purpose of the work being done—not just building homes, but building futures.
One of the most powerful moments occurred when a local mason was seen teaching his sons the trade—passing down knowledge that would empower them to provide for their own families in the future. This moment highlighted the deeper purpose of the work being done—not just building homes, but building futures.
A Deeper Look at the Community
Midweek, the group had the opportunity to visit Gesthemene, where Habitat for Humanity El Salvador has already helped build over 300 homes. They learned about the community’s growing infrastructure, including schools, a medical clinic, and vital social programs aimed at improving overall well-being. Meeting families who had already moved into safe, stable homes served as a powerful reminder of the transformational impact of homeownership.
In addition to construction work, the team engaged in cultural exchange activities, including learning to make pupusas, a staple dish of El Salvador, with members of the community. These experiences reinforced the idea that home is not just about shelter, but about fostering a sense of belonging.
In addition to construction work, the team engaged in cultural exchange activities, including learning to make pupusas, a staple dish of El Salvador, with members of the community. These experiences reinforced the idea that home is not just about shelter, but about fostering a sense of belonging.
Building Homes and Relationships
As the week came to a close, the team reflected on all that had been accomplished—not just in terms of construction but also in the relationships formed along the way. The gratitude expressed by the community was overwhelming, and the experience left a lasting impact on everyone involved.
This trip was more than just a volunteer effort—it was a testament to the power of partnership, resilience, and the shared belief that everyone deserves a place to call home.
This trip was more than just a volunteer effort—it was a testament to the power of partnership, resilience, and the shared belief that everyone deserves a place to call home.
