A group of people wearing white hard hats and safety vests stand pose in front of a construction site sign.
A group of people sitting in chairs in a circle listening to one man talking.

Here at HODC, we’re all about fostering connections and creating opportunities. That’s exactly why we were thrilled to partner with Brinshore Development, LLC and Zion Lutheran Evangelical Church in Deerfield, Illinois, to bring Zion Woods, a brand new 25-unit affordable housing development, to life.

A testament to the power of collaboration, Zion Lutheran Evangelical Church demonstrated their deep commitment to serving the community when they generously donated the land for the development. Their dedication extends far beyond their borders, as they recently hosted a delegation of visitors from Africa who had the chance to not only learn about the church but also delve into the collaborative effort behind Zion Woods.

The delegation met with church leadership, members of the congregation, and HODC representatives and toured the site of Zion Woods, currently under construction. Discussions centered around the challenges and triumphs of bringing the project to fruition after ten years of perseverance. From navigating zoning regulations to securing funding and garnering community support, to an active construction site.

At HODC, we believe that safe, secure, and affordable housing is a basic human right. The international dimension of this gathering underscores this truth. The need for decent housing transcends borders, and by sharing our experiences, we can empower communities around the world to create positive change.

Zion Woods is scheduled for completion in mid-2025. These 25 units will provide much-needed affordable housing for families and individuals who work in Deerfield but struggle to find housing they can afford. It will also offer a home to people with disabilities, ensuring a diverse and inclusive community.

This project is a shining example of what can be achieved when houses of worship, non-profit organizations, developers and community members come together with a shared vision. We at HODC are incredibly grateful for the partnership with Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church, Brinshore Development, LLC and look forward to welcoming residents to Zion Woods.