“Raise the Woof!” fundraiser goes feline with “Under Cat-struction” theme

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (Chambana Today) – Habitat for Humanity of Champaign County is inviting the community to unleash their creativity for a purr-fect cause at the 7th Annual “Raise the Woof!” fundraiser — now going feline with this year’s theme: “Under Cat-struction.”

The event will be held on Saturday, September 6, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Champaign County ReStore, 1914 Glenn Park Drive in Champaign. Traditionally a doghouse-building contest, this year’s competition shifts its focus to our feline friends, challenging local teams to design and construct custom cat trees — all in the name of affordable housing.

Participants can register in one of two categories:

Kittens (Novice): Teams decorate a pre-cut cat tree kit.
Alley Cats (Experienced): Teams build their own original designs from scratch on-site.

Teams will be judged by a panel of guest judges, fellow builders, and the public, with awards given for creativity, community spirit, and fundraising efforts. Once completed, the cat trees will be displayed, voted on, and sold at the ReStore, with proceeds benefiting Habitat’s mission to build safe and affordable homes for families in Champaign County.

“We’re excited to bring a fresh twist to this year’s event,” said a Habitat spokesperson. “It’s a great opportunity for teams to build something fun while supporting families on their journey to homeownership.”

How to Get Involved:

Assemble a team with friends, coworkers, or classmates.
Register online at cuhabitat.org/events/raise-the-woof.
Pay the $200 team fee and start fundraising — top fundraisers earn bonus prizes.
Sponsorships are also available for businesses looking to support the cause and gain visibility.

The event offers a chance to support Habitat’s efforts in addressing the housing crisis locally. Since its founding, Habitat for Humanity of Champaign County has built and sold 138 homes and empowered hundreds of families through housing and financial education programs.

For more information, visit cuhabitat.org/events/raise-the-woof, email development@cuhabitat.org, or call 217-819-5115.