Creating Foundations for the Future: Builders and Nicor Gas Partner for Habitat Families

For three local builders, participating in Habitat for Humanity's Builder Blitz is about more than constructing houses. It's about helping families build brighter futures.

As part of the Habitat Green Freedom development in Aurora, Illinois, three members of the Northern Illinois Home Builders Association teamed up with Habitat for Humanity of Northern Fox Valley and Nicor Gas to help make homeownership a reality for families in need. The project is part of the Nicor Gas Smart Neighborhood™ initiative, which demonstrates how energy-efficient technologies and practical building solutions can work together to create affordable, resilient homes.

Cheryl Lee of CL Design Build, Lionel Martinez of L. Martinez Construction and Dan Jurjovec of Lake West Custom Homes each led the construction of a Habitat home. Lee headed the Women's Build; Martinez led the Faith Build and Jurjovec oversaw the Veteran Build. Together, they coordinated subcontractors, suppliers and volunteers to bring the homes to life.

For all three builders, the motivation was simple: give back to the community and help families achieve the dream of homeownership. They shared a common belief that owning a home creates stability, security and opportunity while helping families build generational wealth.

"A well-built home creates the foundation for stronger families and stronger communities," said Cheryl Lee.

The effort brought together Habitat for Humanity, builders, suppliers, subcontractors, Northern Illinois Home Builders Association members and Nicor Gas employees, all working toward a common goal. Donations of labor, materials and expertise helped ensure each home would provide long-term value for the families who will live there.

In addition to supporting affordable housing, the project showcases innovative homebuilding practices through the Nicor Gas Smart Neighborhood initiative. The homes incorporate energy-efficient designs and technologies that help improve performance and comfort while maintaining affordability. Builders noted that high-efficiency natural gas systems work alongside insulation, air sealing and efficient windows to create high-performing homes.

The builders also emphasized the benefits natural gas continues to provide homeowners, including reliability, comfort, affordability and resilience during severe weather.

Throughout the project, the builders said Nicor Gas was a trusted partner.

"Responsive," "dependable" and "supportive" were among the words they used to describe the company's involvement throughout the construction process.

For Dan Jurjovec, the experience reinforced the importance of community involvement.

"Giving back is part of being a successful business owner and strengthens both the community and the business," he said.

As construction continues, the impact of Builder Blitz extends far beyond the homes themselves. The project represents what can happen when organizations, businesses and volunteers come together to support families and strengthen neighborhoods.

In the end, the builders agree on one important lesson: they're not just building houses. They're helping create stronger families, stronger communities and new opportunities for generations to come.