Framing Our Future: Design, Partnership, and the Power of Home

This year’s Framing Our Future luncheon marked an exciting milestone: the unveiling of our partnership with the Alden B. Dow Home and Studio to build Alden B. Dow Habitat Homes.

Design with Purpose

By bringing these thoughtfully designed homes forward, and continuing Mr. Dow’s vision that his work would one day meet a future need, we are creating quality, affordable housing for our friends and neighbors that truly reflects the character of the Midland community.

“In these homes, you will see some signature materials and design elements that will be instantly identifiable as part of Midland’s Mid-Century Modern architecture.” – Craig McDonald, Executive Director of the Alden B. Dow Home and Studio and Trustee of the Alden and Veda Dow Family Foundation

Like Alden B. Dow, we are always focused on growth that empowers people to own a home that provides not only stability, but also peace of mind, comfort, and pride.

Monica’s Story

Monica, the proud owner of one of our Habitat homes, is a powerful reminder of the impact this kind of growth can have on someone’s life. Before partnering with us, Monica lived in an apartment complex here in town. She worked overnight shifts and had to walk outside through the parking lot late at night, an experience that often left her feeling unsafe.

Today, her story looks very different. Her car has its own space. Her laundry is just steps away. Most importantly, she has a home that supports her independence and sense of security.

“Home means security. Home means peace of mind. Home means safety. And for me, home means I proved to myself that I could do it on my own.” – Monica, Habitat Homeowner

Building Locally, Impacting Globally

While our mission is global, the challenges and opportunities of affordable homeownership are deeply local. Access to land and financing, supportive permitting and regulatory environments, affordable materials and labor, and welcoming communities are complex issues being addressed worldwide, yet meaningful progress must always begin locally.

Our journey began 37 years ago, when a group of passionate community members came together around a simple but powerful belief: everyone deserves a decent place to live. And we’re not slowing down.

What’s Next

This August, we’ll begin building two more homes, one in partnership with Midland Public Schools and one with Greater Michigan Construction Academy, marking our 100th home. What makes our work unique is that we don’t just build houses, we build partnerships. Every homeowner, like Monica, invests time through sweat equity, prepares through education, and ultimately purchases their home with an affordable mortgage that creates stability today and opportunity for the future.

Stronger families lead to stronger neighborhoods, and stronger neighborhoods lead to a stronger community. We are building toward a future where more families have access to affordable homeownership, and where Midland continues to grow stronger together.

“Our community believes in showing up, rolling up our sleeves, and building something meaningful together.” – Linden Rogers, Midland County Habitat for Humanity Board Chair

Together, we are continuing this journey by blending thoughtful design, historical inspiration, and modern efficiency to reimagine what affordable housing can look like.

This work moves forward with partners like you, please save the date for next year’s Framing Our Future on April 21, 2027.