Inside The Hudson: Answers, Vision, and the People Who Inspired It

At Habitat for Humanity of Sumner County, we believe that when we build differently, we build better, and The Hudson is proof of that vision. As the first pocket neighborhood in our county, The Hudson reimagines how homes, people, and community come together.

This page offers a deeper look at the project: how it works, who it will serve, and why it matters. You'll also learn about Wilda Dodson and Bill Hudgins, two remarkable leaders whose dedication to community, compassion, and equity laid the foundation for everything this neighborhood represents.

Below, you’ll find answers to the most frequently asked questions about The Hudson, from timeline and affordability to recognition and volunteer opportunities. Whether you’re ready to get involved or simply curious about what makes this project so special, we invite you to explore and join us in building a future rooted in connection, dignity, and hope.

The Legacy That Inspired a Neighborhood

The Hudson is more than a name, it’s a tribute to two extraordinary individuals whose values and vision helped build the foundation of Habitat for Humanity of Sumner County.

Wilda Dodson

Bill Hudgins

Their shared commitment to dignity, service, and community lives on in The Hudson, a neighborhood rooted in the values they embodied.

Pocket Neighborhood 101: Reimagining Home and Community

At Habitat for Humanity of Sumner County, we’ve always believed that everyone deserves a safe, decent, and affordable place to call home. Now, we’re taking that mission a step further, with a new way to build community from the ground up.

The Hudson is Sumner County’s first-ever pocket neighborhood: a small, thoughtfully designed cluster of homes centered around a shared green space instead of roads and driveways. This layout isn’t just efficient, it’s transformational.

By replacing traffic with pathways, and isolating yards with shared spaces, pocket neighborhoods bring neighbors closer together. Front porches become gathering spots. Children have a safer place to play. Conversations happen naturally. Community becomes part of the design, not an afterthought.

And just like every Habitat project, affordability remains at the heart. The Hudson will offer six energy-efficient homes with affordable mortgages, built in partnership with local families who contribute sweat equity, hope, and hard work. It’s a model that promotes dignity, stability, and lasting opportunity.

This is more than a neighborhood. It’s a new way forward, one rooted in connection, equity, and a shared belief that housing can transform lives.

Q&A

  • A pocket neighborhood is a small cluster of homes that face a shared green space. Porches function as outdoor living rooms, creating opportunities for natural connection and neighborly care. Children have a safer place to play, and community flourishes by design.

  • Location: 0 Bryan Drive, Gallatin
    Timeline: Groundbreaking is planned for Q3 2026, with the goal of all families moving in by the end of 2027.

  • Funds will support home construction, site work, infrastructure, the shared courtyard, porches, sidewalks, volunteer engagement, and homeowner education. In-kind gifts reduce the cash need and are recognized at fair value.

  • Future homeowners are hard-working households who meet income, residency, and credit guidelines, are willing to partner with Habitat, and can contribute sweat equity. All selections follow fair housing laws.

  • Yes. Habitat for Humanity of Sumner County is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit. You’ll receive a receipt for your donation. Some naming opportunities may have small, non-deductible benefits (de minimis); we will advise accordingly.

  • Yes. Pledges can extend through December 2027. A typical schedule:
    • 40% at pledge
    • 30% at groundbreaking
    • 20% mid-build (2027)
    • 10% before home dedications

  • Recognition corresponds with your sponsorship level and may include signage, digital and print visibility, event mentions, and naming opportunities for homes or shared features. We’re happy to align with your brand standards.

  • Absolutely. We host branded team build days that include training, safety briefings, group photos, and follow-up thank-you stories. Opportunities are available for framing, porches, landscaping, and final punch lists.