On a bright, warm Wednesday, supporters, community partners, public officials, volunteers, and future homeowners gathered on July 1 to celebrate the groundbreaking of Habitat for Humanity Capital Region's new Valencia Boulevard development. The ceremony marked the beginning of a project that will grow into a ten-home neighborhood over the next several years, creating new opportunities for affordable homeownership on Lansing's south side.
At the podium, homebuyer partners Souci and Edward reflected on the long road to homeownership and the excitement of finally seeing construction begin. Mayor Andy Schor also spoke about the importance of expanding affordable homeownership opportunities and investing in neighborhoods that help families put down lasting roots.
“Becoming a first-time homeowner is something I've always wanted to do, so it's been a long journey. Now everything is kind of coming together, and I'm excited for it.” - Souci, HFHCR Homebuyer Partner
Habitat for Humanity Capital Region CEO Brent Taylor shared that the development represents a major milestone for the organization.
"This is our biggest, most ambitious project we've ever been involved in, and it's going to bring so much of the community together," Taylor said. "Here in the next couple weeks, we'll actually be digging foundations and starting on the first two homes."
Following the remarks, Edward and Souci, Mayor Schor, Brent Taylor, and representatives from Jackson, AF Group, MSUFCU, and Eaton Community Bank – all lead sponsors for Valencia Blvd. – were a part of the ceremonial shovel turn, officially marking the project’s start.
The celebration continued as the crowd signed wooden 2×4 studs with messages of encouragement and well-wishes that will be built into the future homes – a permanent reminder of community and dedication.
“I see a lot of possibilities for what that neighborhood could become over the next five years and the kind of community that could develop there."
- Edward, HFHCR Homebuyer Partner
![AF Group (right to left):
Shannon Scholten (Managing Director, Communications & Community Relations),
Mike Valiante (President, Commercial Markets & HFHCR Board Chair), Lori Mourer (Advisor, Community Relations),
Brian Fisher (Advisor, Community Relations),
Sarah Garcia (Director, Community Relations [retired])](https://www.habitatcr.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Habitat-Valencia-7-1-26-SScholten_MValiante_LMourer_BFisher_SGarcia-1024x590.jpg "Habitat Valencia - 7-1-26 - SScholten_MValiante_LMourer_BFisher_SGarcia")
About Habitat for Humanity Capital Region and Valencia
Valencia Blvd. is a Habitat Capital Region development, and represents a major investment in Lansing and a shared commitment to creating more affordable homeownership opportunities. Habitat for Humanity Capital Region brings people together to build homes, communities, and hope.
Serving Ingham and Eaton counties, the organization partners with local families to provide affordable homeownership and critical home repairs, while engaging volunteers in meaningful service that transforms neighborhoods.
Interested in volunteering, donating, or joining our homeownership program? Visit habitatcr.org.
