Champaign County Habitat for Humanity introduces new twist to yearly fundraiser

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WAND) — Habitat for Humanity of Champaign County introduced a new twist to their 7th annual "Raise the Woof!" fundraiser.

In years past, participating teams have designed dog houses, but this year, teams designed and built creative cat trees under the theme "Under Cat-struction!"

Teams competed in two categories: a novice category with pre-cut kits for decorating, and an experienced category allowing for custom designs to be built on-site.

The builds were judged by guest judges, peers and the public. The cat trees were voted on with awards for creativity, fundraising and community spirit. They will then be sold at the Champaign County ReStore starting Tuesday.

"This is just a great way to get people engaged with Habitat in a different way than just donating dollars," said Champaign County Habitat for Humanity Executive Director Chad Hoffman.

Proceeds from the sales as well as team fees collected for the event will benefit Habitat for Humanity.