The rhythmic pounding of hammers rang through the air at Wright State University’s Lot 4A, as more than 100 student-athletes and coaches came together to volunteer with Habitat for Humanity of Greater Dayton. Despite gray skies and steady rain, the energy was unwavering as Raider Nation came together to support a local family’s dreams of homeownership.
In a display of unity and hard work, every athletic team from Wright State joined forces to construct all the wall panels for a new Dayton Habitat home. This wasn’t just any home—it marked the beginning of the first-ever Raider Nation Build, a special project set to bring attainable housing to a deserving family in New Carlisle.
The event was made possible by long-time Habitat partners and proud Wright State supporters, Wright-Patt Credit Union (WPCU). Their generous sponsorship helped bring this day of purpose to life. As the rain began to fall, representatives from WPCU joined Rowdy Raider, Wright State Athletic Director Joylynn Brown, and leaders from Habitat for Humanity of Greater Dayton for an opening ceremony that included a check presentation. The moment symbolized more than just financial support—it showed the power of community partnerships to bring about real change.
Before a single panel was raised, Wright State’s coaches and athletic department staff took time earlier in the week for a pre-cut session at the Nutter Center. Measuring, sawing, and preparing materials ahead of time ensured the student-athletes could jump right into the hands-on experience, maximizing impact and efficiency.
And they delivered.
Amidst the wet weather, teams built every panel that will be needed for the Raider Nation Build. The event was more than just service; it was teambuilding. Teammates cheered one another on, laughter mixed with the hammering, and friendships formed across sports and departments.
Perhaps the most moving part of the day was seeing Charlotte, the future homeowner, working shoulder-to-shoulder with the athletes. Along with her three children, Charlotte volunteered her time to help build the very walls that will one day be her forever home. “It means a lot,” she said with a smile. “I’m really appreciative! And I’ve come a long way.”
“As athletes all together, it's so rewarding to be able to help someone who needs it,” said one student-athlete.
Each student athlete left the event having made new memories and acquired new skills. The panels, once completed, will soon be transported to New Carlisle, where the first Raider Nation Build will become a reality.
For Habitat for Humanity of Greater Dayton, partnerships like this represent the best of what’s possible when organizations come together in service of others. Wright State’s student-athletes are known for their discipline, grit, and teamwork on the playing field—but their actions during this build proved that their character off the field is just as strong.
WPCU’s continued commitment to investing in the people and communities it serves made this day possible. At Habitat, it is often said that it takes a village to build a home. On this rainy day in Lot 4A, the village wore jerseys, brought school spirit, and built something extraordinary together.
For more information on how you can support the upcoming Raider Nation Build, go to DaytonHabitat.Org/RaiderNation!
