September 22, 2026
On September 8, Wichita Habitat for Humanity and ICM came together for a special wall raising celebration to officially kick off the construction of ICM’s 25th Habitat home in Rock the Block #219. This milestone event highlighted decades of community service and marked the beginning of a new chapter for future homeowners Amisi and Furaha.
For Amisi and Furaha, this celebration signifies the fulfillment of a long-held dream. Originally from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the couple’s lives were forever changed by war. Forced to flee their homeland, they sought refuge in Tanzania, spending the next 20 years living in a refugee camp. Despite these immense hardships, they never lost hope that they would one day have a chance to build a better life. After immigrating to the United States, they relied on hard work, perseverance, and strong faith to overcome challenges and build a new life together. They first learned about Wichita Habitat for Humanity’s Homeownership program through a friend and recognized it as an opportunity to achieve financial security and provide a safe, healthy place for their children.
During the wall raising celebration, Furaha shared her gratitude with the gathered crowd. “I would like to thank the sponsors and volunteers for helping my family build this home,” she said. “Thank you from the bottom of my heart.” She also spoke to the lasting impact this home will have on their lives as they prepare to become homeowners. “[Wichita] Habitat’s Homeownership program will help my family be financially stable and provide us a safe, healthy, and affordable home,” Furaha shared. “It means a better future and happiness for our family.”
This life-changing opportunity was made possible by the enduring partnership between Wichita Habitat for Humanity and ICM, a collaboration that began in 2003. Over the past two decades, ICM team members have contributed thousands of volunteer hours to help build homes and hope alongside Habitat and future homeowners in Sedgwick County. Chris Mitchell, president and CEO of ICM, emphasized the deep roots of this collaboration. “Today is really a celebration of what can happen when people and organizations come together around a shared purpose,” Mitchell said. “Our commitment to service is an important part of our company culture, and this partnership has given our team a very tangible way to live out that commitment right here in our community.”
Danielle Johnson, executive director of Wichita Habitat for Humanity, reflected on the impact of ICM’s long-standing dedication. “Reaching this 25th home build milestone is a powerful testament to what can be accomplished when a company lives out its values through action,” Johnson said. “These walls are not just a structure, but a symbol of hope, stability and community.” Since 1986, Wichita Habitat for Humanity has partnered with over 300 individuals and families to remove barriers to affordable housing. Community members are encouraged to be part of this transformative work. No construction experience is needed to volunteer on a build site, just good closed-toed shoes and a good attitude.
Like ICM, you can make a tangible difference in our community and help families like Amisi and Furaha build their future. To learn more about this partnership and how to get involved, visit wichitahabitat.org/ICM25thHome.
