Volunteers Come Together to Build Affordable Geothermal Community in Texas

Volunteers from around the globe met up in Austin, Texas, at the end of October to help with the construction of the city’s first geothermal housing community. Known as Whisper Valley, the community is part of Habitat for Humanity’s 2025 Jimmy & Rosalyn Carter Work Project, according to a news release from building products manufacturer Simpson Strong-Tie, which both sponsored and volunteered at the event.

Simpson Strong-Tie contributed both funding and building products to the 48-home community and also had volunteers from its McKinney, Texas, branch take part in the event. While onsite, those volunteers spent the week performing various tasks, including installing cabinets, hanging doors, exterior finishing work, and more.

“Finding affordable housing is a critical issue for a significant percentage of Americans, and the work Habitat for Humanity does to bring homeownership within reach of more people is essential,” said Jennifer Lutz, executive vice president, human resources for Simpson Strong-Tie. “Working with the Jimmy & Rosalynn Carter Work Project is part of our ongoing commitment to support both our industry and our communities. We’re particularly proud of our employees for their dedication, as well, in donating their time and expertise to this important cause.”