Photos by Idyllic Creative Team

On Friday, May 9, The Factory at Franklin was transformed into a vibrant celebration of resilience, community, and transformation as Habitat for Humanity Williamson-Maury (HFHWM) hosted its 16th annual Hammers & High Heels fundraiser, presented by Community Health Systems. The event shattered the organization’s previous fundraising records, raisingmore than $200,000 to support the construction of a Women Build home for future homeowner Alarriona and her young daughter, Kelis.

The 2025 event embraced the theme Seasons of Hope,highlighting how the stability of homeownership creates a lasting foundation throughout every chapter and season of life. As HFHWM CEO, Kim Randell, shared in her remarks, the true impact of a Habitat home extends far beyond its walls.

“The ripple effects will echo for years, in ways big and small. When the family decorates their first Christmas tree in the living room. When Kelis starts school with a quiet bedroom where she can learn, read, and let her imagination run wild. And someday, when she’s dressed up for prom, posing with friends on the front porch, or pulling into the driveway in her very first car—this home will be the foundation of her story,” said Randell. “Because this isn’t just a house. It will be a safe haven through life’s storms, and the backdrop for a lifetime of memories.”

The evening featured a curated dinner by South Fork Catering, high-gravity beer tastings from Curio Brewing Company, and spirited bidding in both the silent and live auctions, with trips to Mexico, Florida, and the Kentucky Bourbon Trail on the block. Guests also enjoyed a whiskey and wine pull, stocked thanks to the generosity of William Grant & Sons, local businesses, and the HFHWM board and staff.

But at the heart of the evening was Alarriona—a mother determined to build a better future for her daughter. “The last apartment we were in always had issues. Something was always breaking, and I had just had a newborn. It was overwhelming,” Alarriona shared. “Then I started looking for other apartments, and they were just way too expensive. I couldn’t afford it.”

Through HFHWM’s Homeownership Program, Alarriona will purchase her home with an affordable mortgage, tailoredto her income. And with every nail hammered and wall raised by Women Build volunteers, she is one step closer to providing the safety and stability her family deserves. “I’ve never had a place to call home—every time the lease was up, we were out of there. I’m so excited, especially for Kelis[.] This will be amazing for her in the long run,” she said. As the evening came to a close, it was clear that Hammers & High Heels was more than a fundraiser—it was a celebration of what’s possible when the community comes together to build hope, one home at a time.

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BREE DEMOSS is the Marketing and Events Manager at Habitat for Humanity Williamson-Maury.