When most people think of Habitat for Humanity, they picture volunteers in hard hats, on the ground helping to build homes. But the heart of Habitat’s impact stretches far beyond the build site, and it’s often the people working behind the scenes who make that impact possible—people like Charlita Stephens-Walker. 

As Habitat for Humanity International’s Vice President of Corporate Partnerships and Cause Marketing, Stephens-Walker plays a powerful role in connecting companies with opportunities to support Habitat’s mission in meaningful, lasting ways—transforming corporate support into community-centered change. 

Before stepping into this role, Stephens-Walker spent more than 30  years in the corporate world, all while deeply involved in her community—volunteering regularly with food banks, museums, theaters, and her neighborhood YMCA. That steady dedication ultimately inspired her to seek a more impactful role where she could turn her professional experience into purpose-driven impact. 

At Habitat, she helps corporate partners become part of something bigger. “They help us tell our story in powerful, unexpected ways,” she says. “When we pair a partner’s platform with a homeowner’s journey, the result is both moving and memorable—and it helps expand our mission far beyond what we could do alone.” 

Ahead, we caught up with Stephens-Walker to talk about the impact of that work—on communities, on companies, and on herself. 

What’s been the most rewarding part of your time at Habitat for Humanity so far?

There have been many rewarding moments, but what stands out most is seeing the transformation—not just of homes and communities, but of lives and generational impact. Watching a partner team build side by side with a future homeowner, or seeing a corporate story spark someone’s decision to give or volunteer, reminds me of how deeply connected we all are. It’s rewarding to know that our work doesn’t just build houses—it builds community, confidence, and hope.

Is there a particular story that reminds you why this work matters?

One story that’s always stayed with me is from a devoted and hard-working mother who partnered with Habitat to build her first home. After moving in, she shared that her children had never had a safe space to do their homework or invite friends over. Now, they had their own rooms—and a sense of stability that changed the way they showed up at school and in life. She counted this as a tremendous blessing and she was so proud of their academic and personal achievements. It was such a powerful reminder that we’re not just building homes—we’re laying the foundation for generational change. 

The need is urgent. Every day, 1 in 3 people around the world wake up without the security of safe, affordable housing. In the U.S., 60% of Americans cannot afford a $300,000 home. Habitat’s vision is a world where everyone has a decent place to live—and thanks to our partners, we are making bold strides toward that goal. 

In fact, over the last 15 years, Habitat has grown its impact 100-fold. More than 62 million people around the world now have new or improved housing. 

Are there any new initiatives or projects you’re particularly excited about right now?

I’m really excited about how we’re continuing to deepen partner engagement beyond traditional sponsorships. Exposing partners to our work in areas such disaster resilience and recovery, helping seniors age-in-place in their homes, teaching financial skills to homeowners, and advocating for legislation that protects families and communities are a few ways to bring partners closer to the mission. Whether through immersive build experiences, storytelling collaborations, capacity-building opportunities, or long-term volunteer commitments, it is so rewarding to see companies move from transactional support to transformational impact.

What keeps you inspired in your work?

The people—hands down. From our affiliate network to our corporate partners to the families we serve, I’m constantly inspired by the passion, resilience, and generosity of those around me. Every conversation, every story, every build site visit is a reminder that we’re part of something much bigger than ourselves.

From now through the end of June, VB Gives Back will be supporting Habitat for Humanity by donating a portion of all online orders and hosting an array of in-store give-back events. Join us in helping empower others through shelter.