ST. AUGUSTINE, Florida (November 9, 2026) – Habitat for Humanity of St. Johns County will host its second annual Veterans Build on Friday, Nov. 13 and Saturday, Nov. 14. This event brings together active and retired military members and their families to build camaraderie through volunteering. The event also highlights Habitat’s affordable housing programs that address the housing challenges many Veterans face.
“Our Veterans have given so much in service to our country, and Veterans Build is an opportunity for our community to come together and give back,” says Malinda Everson, Chief Executive Officer of Habitat for Humanity of St. Johns County. “This event is about more than building homes. It’s about honoring those who have served, fostering camaraderie, and working side by side to help local families achieve the stability and security of affordable homeownership. We are proud to have Veterans among our Habitat homeowners, and we remain committed to ensuring that those who have served our country have access to the same opportunities.”
This year’s Veterans Build is on Friday, Nov. 13, and Saturday, Nov. 14, from 7:30 a.m. until 3 p.m. Volunteers will work on Habitat’s two newest houses under construction on Pearl Street, just a couple of streets from its Volusia Woods neighborhood. Volunteers will caulk and paint one home, while the other will involve framing or siding. Habitat St. Johns’ construction staff will supervise all volunteer activities. Friday morning will begin with a ceremonial color guard. Habitat St. Johns is honored to welcome St. Johns County Sheriff Rob Hardwick back to spearhead Veterans Build. “Kendell and I are passionate about Habitat for Humanity of St. Johns County, and it is one of our favorite events of the year. We love to contribute to a great cause, especially when it benefits a community member during challenging times. Affordable housing is a constant struggle today, and it’s something I make a priority to improve upon with our deputy sheriffs. The St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office sees the need for this initiative, and multiple agency members help each year. We hope to always be part of this important event and wish the family a safe and happy home,” said Sheriff Rob Hardwick.
Habitat for Humanity began expanding its grassroots efforts in the late 2000s as service members who fought in Iraq and Afghanistan returned to a challenging economy and rising housing costs, and formally launched Veterans Build in 2013. Habitat St. Johns hosted its first Veterans Build last year, welcoming 65 volunteers to its Volusia Woods neighborhood. Habitat St. Johns Veterans Build event would like to recognize its generous sponsors: Ameris Bank, UF Health Care Connect, Publix, Skinny Lizard Printing, and Jersey Mike’s Subs.
