Whirlpool Corporation recently contributed to Habitat for Humanity’s 39th Jimmy & Rosalynn Carter Work Project in Austin, Texas, providing grants to support the construction of 10 net zero-energy ready homes under the BuildBetter with Whirlpool initiative. The Carter Work Project honors President Jimmy Carter’s lifelong dedication to affordable housing and, this year, gathered more than 1,000 volunteers from across the globe to build 25 energy-efficient, affordable homes.

The homes are being built in Whisper Valley—a sustainable master-planned community and the first in the United States to utilize geothermal energy on a large scale, cutting energy use by as much as 80 percent. The BuildBetter with Whirlpool program aims to promote the development of climate-resilient and energy-efficient housing, while sharing and scaling best building practices nationwide. Within Whisper Valley, the 10 Whirlpool-supported homes will feature solar shingles to help achieve net-zero energy performance.

Beyond financial support, Whirlpool employees also participated on-site, volunteering alongside Habitat homeowners, staff, and community members to help construct the homes.
“The Jimmy Carter Work Project exemplifies collaboration, innovation, and community spirit,” said Marc Bitzer, chairman and CEO of Whirlpool Corporation and a member of Habitat for Humanity International’s Board of Directors. “Through our BuildBetter with Whirlpool program, we’re committed to creating sustainable housing solutions that enhance long-term affordability and deliver high-quality, energy-efficient homes.”

Since its inception in 2021, the BuildBetter with Whirlpool program has facilitated the creation of over 260 energy-efficient, climate-resilient homes across the U.S. These homes help reduce energy bills by an estimated 45 percent compared to typical new homes, while cutting greenhouse gas emissions by roughly 15 percent per home. Over the next two years, the initiative aims to add 50 more net-zero or net-zero ready homes equipped with solar panels, high-efficiency HVAC systems, and water- and energy-saving appliances tailored to each homeowner’s regional needs.

Whirlpool’s dedication to sustainable housing extends beyond the Austin project. In Bloomington, Indiana, the company recently celebrated 15 years of partnership with Habitat for Humanity of Monroe County and Indiana University’s Kelley School of Business, marking the milestone with the construction of five new net-zero homes in the Osage Place neighborhood. Additionally, in Benton Harbor, Michigan—home to Whirlpool’s global headquarters—the company launched Project T, a redevelopment effort transforming the former Mercy Hospital site. The first phase will build 14 duplexes, ultimately delivering up to 77 new homes and revitalizing the local community.

For more than 25 years, Whirlpool Corporation has supported Habitat for Humanity’s mission to provide safe, affordable, and sustainable housing for families worldwide.

Click here to know more about Whirlpool Corporation and its support for Habitat for Humanity.

Whirlpool Corporation, Habitat for Humanity of Monroe County, and Indiana University’s Kelley School of Business are celebrating 15 years of partnership dedicated to building homes and hope in Bloomington, Indiana. This year, the organizations completed five new net-zero homes in the Osage Place neighborhood under the BuildBetter with Whirlpool initiative, underscoring Whirlpool’s ongoing commitment to sustainability and community development.

Jim Peters, Whirlpool’s Chief Financial and Administrative Officer and a Kelley School alumnus, shared,

“At Whirlpool, we see housing as the cornerstone of opportunity, security, and well-being. Over the past 15 years, our collaboration with Habitat for Humanity and the Kelley School has allowed us to bring that vision to life. This year’s expanded effort marks another significant step in our mission to create sustainable, thriving communities.”

The 2025 build, held during the week of October 13, completed the first phase of the Osage Place development. Nine homes in total—including five newly constructed net-zero homes—are part of the BuildBetter with Whirlpool initiative, designed to promote energy efficiency and climate resilience. In support of these efforts, the City of Bloomington has provided $250,000 in grants to install solar panels on 30 homes, further advancing the community’s renewable energy goals.

“Every house we construct represents far more than bricks and mortar—it’s a foundation for generational progress,” said Wendi Goodlett, CEO of Habitat for Humanity of Monroe County. “Through the dedication of Whirlpool Corporation and the enthusiasm of Kelley School students, five more families will soon move into safe, affordable, and sustainable homes. Together, we’re helping to create vibrant neighborhoods rooted in hope and resilience.”

Since its launch in 2021, the BuildBetter with Whirlpool program has helped build 260 climate-smart, energy-efficient homes nationwide, cutting energy costs by an average of 45% and lowering greenhouse gas emissions by roughly 15% per home. The current phase of the program aims to add 50 more net-zero or net-zero-ready homes over the next two years, featuring solar power systems, high-efficiency HVAC units, and water- and energy-saving appliances tailored to local needs.

Volunteers continue to drive these projects forward—ranging from Whirlpool employees and local Habitat volunteers to students from the Kelley School of Business. Beyond the builds themselves, Whirlpool supports student growth through hands-on experience and professional development opportunities.

“This partnership showcases the transformative power of experiential learning,” said Pat Hopkins, Dean of the IU Kelley School of Business and James R. Hodge Chair of Excellence. “Our students don’t just study topics like leadership and social impact—they put them into practice. Collaborating with Whirlpool and Habitat for Humanity gives them real-world experience while making a meaningful difference in the community.”

Click here to know more about Whirlpool Corporation’s support of Habitat for Humanity.