Habitat for Humanity of Greater Dayton is honored to announce that Elizabeth Breitenstein, a dedicated volunteer and our Women Build Chair, has been named the Habitat for Humanity of Ohio Volunteer of the Year. This statewide recognition celebrates Elizabeth’s extraordinary leadership, vision, and impact on women-led construction and community engagement throughout the Miami Valley.

Under Elizabeth’s guidance, Dayton Habitat’s Women Build program has flourished into a force for affordable homeownership. Her leadership has strengthened volunteer teams, expanded community support, and championed hands-on opportunities for women to learn construction skills while making a tangible difference for local families. Through her chairship, Women Build has welcomed new supporters and mobilized hundreds of volunteers to help build and repair safe, stable housing across Montgomery, Greene, and Clark counties.

“Elizabeth has been and continues to be an incredible leader and catalyst for Habitat for Humanity of Greater Dayton. The time and talent she provides to our organization has made a direct impact on hundreds of lives in the Miami Valley,” says Dayton Habitat Development Director David Mauch. “Due to her volunteerism, advocacy, and partnership, our Women Build program has experienced significant growth over the last three years. Elizabeth is a champion for Women Build, and because of her collaboration, the program has seen growth in both participation and notoriety. Elizabeth is an incredible ally in our work at Habitat for Humanity of Greater Dayton.”

Accomplishments under Elizabeth’s chairship include:
• Completion 6 Women Build homes that now serve as safe, affordable housing for partner families.
• 2,468 volunteer hours contributed by 499 volunteers on the 2025 Women Build site.
• Increasing awareness of the critical role women play in construction, leadership, and affordable housing advocacy.

How to Get Involved in Women Build 2026

Planning for Women Build 2026 is underway, and Elizabeth’s award highlights the perfect moment for community members to step in. Women Build welcomes volunteers of all backgrounds — no construction experience needed. There are team captain opportunities and hands-on build days for anyone interested in volunteering.

To learn more about Women Build or to sign up for updates on Women Build 2026, visit: DaytonHabitat.Org/WomenBuild