Inaugural “Pillars of Promise” Gala
October 13, 2025
Habitat for Humanity of Durham Announces Inaugural “Pillars of Promise” Gala Celebrating 40 Years of Building Homes, Hope, and Community
Durham, N.C. — Monday, October 13, 2025 — Habitat for Humanity of Durham proudly announces its Inaugural Gala: Pillars of Promise, a milestone celebration marking 40 years of partnership, purpose, and progress in building safe, affordable housing across Durham County. The event will bring together community leaders, partners, volunteers, and supporters for an evening dedicated to honoring four decades of impact—and looking ahead to the next chapter of promise.
Set to be held at Sheraton Imperial on Thursday, December 4th, 2025, the Pillars of Promise Gala will celebrate the families whose lives have been transformed through homeownership, the volunteers who have lifted hammers and hearts, and the partners who have made Habitat’s mission possible. Guests will enjoy dinner, live entertainment, and inspiring stories of how affordable housing continues to strengthen the fabric of the Durham community.
“For forty years, Habitat for Humanity of Durham has stood as a pillar of promise for families seeking stability, dignity, and a place to call home,” said Nimasheena Burns, President and CEO of Habitat for Humanity of Durham. “This gala is a celebration as well as a call to continue building together. Our next phase of work will focus on expanding access to affordable housing through new neighborhoods. Together, we’re not just building houses, we’re building hope.”
Since its founding in 1985, Habitat for Humanity of Durham has partnered with thousands of volunteers and community members to construct and preserve more than 490 affordable homes, helping families achieve the stability and self-reliance that homeownership brings. The Pillars of Promise Gala marks the beginning of a yearlong celebration that will highlight the organization’s historic legacy and the partners who have carried its mission forward.
“Our volunteers, donors, and corporate partners have been the hands and hearts behind every wall we’ve raised and every key we’ve handed over,” said Ernest Smith, Chair of the Habitat for Humanity of Durham Board of Directors. “This moment is about honoring their commitment and inviting the next generation of builders and believers to join us as we lay the foundation for the next 40 years.”
The Pillars of Promise Gala will also spotlight Habitat’s new vision for 2026 and beyond, including innovative approaches to home construction, workforce development in the trades, and deeper collaboration with local government and nonprofits to address Durham’s growing housing affordability crisis.
Event Details
What: Habitat for Humanity of Durham Inaugural Gala: Pillars of Promise
When: Thursday, December 4th, 2025
Where: Sheraton Imperial Hotel Raleigh-Durham Airport at Research Triangle Park; 4700 Emperor Blvd, Durham, NC 27703
Tickets: Tickets Start at $100 and can be found here: Durham Habitat President’s Inaugural President’s Gala and Tickets for Sponsorships can be found here Durham Habitat President’s Inaugural President’s Gala. Learn more about how to Become a Pillars of Promise Gala Sponsor | Durham Habitat for Humanity
For sponsorship opportunities, media inquiries, or more information, please visit DurhamHabitat.org or contact Diona Akens or Sean Grier at development@DurhamHabitat.org Sponsorships: Become a Pillars of Promise Gala Sponsor | Durham Habitat for Humanity
About Habitat for Humanity of Durham
Founded in 1985, Habitat for Humanity of Durham partners with individuals, families, and communities to build, repair, and preserve affordable homes. Through volunteer labor and donor support, Habitat creates pathways to stability and opportunity for families throughout Durham County. Over four decades, Habitat Durham has become a trusted leader in advancing affordable housing and community development.
Together, we build homes. Together, we build hope. Together, we build Durham.