Habitat NFV kicks off Smart Neighborhoods with Home Builders Blitz

On May 13, Habitat for Humanity of Northern Fox Valley welcomed local builders and tradespeople to Two Brothers Roundhouse in Aurora for an exciting kickoff event in support of our new Smart Neighborhood™ initiative.

Our Habitat affiliate has partnered with Nicor Gas to build two Smart Neighborhoods: one in Aurora and one in Carpentersville. These homes—17 in Aurora and 13 in Carpentersville—come equipped with energy efficient products, smart technologies and a combination of natural gas, electric, and renewable energy sources.

As part of the Smart Neighborhood build, we launched a Home Builders Blitz this week, where we bring in local builders and tradespeople to team up and speed up construction of the homes.

The May 13 event wasn't just about a construction launch. It was a moment where skilled builders, tradespeople, and community partners came together to hear the vision for the Smart Neighborhood and pledge their support in building affordable, smart homes for families in need. The event was led by Barbara Beckman, Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity of Northern Fox Valley, and served as both an inspiration and a call to action.

Event highlights:

• Habitat leaders Barbara Beckman, Tom Clausen, and Tom Rentner discussed the positive impact this project will have on the Aurora community.

• Nicor Gas representatives shared insights into the Smart Neighborhood concept, including the innovative technologies and energy upgrades that will be featured in the homes.

• Local builders and tradespeople who are volunteering their time and expertise spoke about why they chose to get involved and what the project means to them.

“The Smart Neighborhoods project is about more than building houses—it’s about building the future," said Beckman. "By bringing together local builders, tradespeople, suppliers, and community partners, we’re creating energy-efficient, connected homes that will empower families for generations to come. This Builders Blitz is a powerful reminder of what we can accomplish when we work together with purpose and heart.”

The May 13 kickoff event set the stage for construction to begin in August, with the first wave of families expected to move into their new homes by late 2025.

We still need the community's help! To get involved in the Smart Neighborhoods project and our Home Builders Blitz as a professional builder or skilled tradesperson, please contact Barb Beckman at barb.beckman@habitatnfv.org. To learn more about the Smart Neighborhoods, visit our website at ngsmartneighborhoods.com.