There are many ways you can help:
Construction
Previous construction experience is not necessary, and training will be provided onsite. The most important focus of our Women Build program is safety. Operation of power tools is not required, but one-on-one training will be provided for those who want to learn to use power tools.
Committees
You don't have to pick up a hammer to help!! Our Women Build Committee works behind the scenes on publicity, fundraising, planning, brainstorming, and so much more! We welcome new members.
Refreshments
Lunches are provided for construction volunteers on Saturdays throughout the build schedule. We appreciate the efforts of churches, sororities, small groups, Sunday School classes, individuals and other organizations who would like to provide lunch on a build day.
Fundraising
The cost of the 2009 Women Build house is approximately $55,000. These funds are raised through individuals, corporations, grants and other methods. If you would be willing to write grant applications, contact businesses and churches, or have any other creative ideas to help us raise funds, we would welcome your input.
Raffle Ticket Sales
Our 2009 playhouse is currently under construction. If you are interested in helping sell raffle tickets or purchase raffle tickets to raise money for the Women Build program, please call the Habitat office at 281-820-2307.
And more!
We welcome your ideas for making the 2009 Women build project a success. If you would like to give your input, or join our committee and become a part of this amazing endeavor, call the Habitat office at 281-820-2307 for more information.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is “Women Build”?
What makes this mission so special?
Why should I get involved?
What is happening in my area?
How can I get involved?
Is it a problem if I don’t have any construction skills?
What is “Women Build”?
Women Build is a Habitat for Humanity International mission that encourages women and girls to make a difference building homes and communities through funding and constructing Habitat homes. More than 1,200 Habitat houses have been built by women crews around the world and more homes are added each year as affiliates, donors and sponsors discover the impact of women volunteers and their resources.
The need is great, but it can be met. Women can be part of the solution -- one house, one family at a time. Women Build challenges and empowers women to build safe, healthy housing where children can flourish and grow to be all that they can be. Throughout the
What makes this mission so special?
This mission is not about exclusion; it is about empowerment. Habitat for Humanity believes a program like the Women Build is a powerful tool for educating and supporting the women of our community. Fifty percent (50%) of our affiliate homeowners are single women. Women are increasingly buying homes on their own and becoming involved in home repair. This is an opportunity to teach those women about the homes they own. This is also an opportunity to challenge preconceived ideas about what women are capable of or willing to do. Most importantly, it is about women doing their part to overcome poverty housing and providing a decent, safe home for a mother and her children.
Why should I get involved?
Statistics* show that children raised in a home owned by their parents are:
33% LESS likely to give birth as an unmarried teenager
40% LESS likely to be idle at age 20
35% LESS likely to receive welfare
20% MORE likely to graduate from high school
62% MORE likely to acquire a post-secondary education
* Journal of Housing Research, 2003 low income families’ comparison of homeowners versus non-homeowners
What is happening in my area?
Construction of the 2009 Women Build project will begin on April 18th, 2009.
Call the Habitat office (281-820-2307) if you are interested in getting involved and check this website often for updates.
How can I get involved?
Volunteer – Women and youth volunteers above age 14 are needed.
There are many ways you can help. Previous construction experience is not necessary, and training will be provided onsite. Volunteers are needed, not only for construction, but also to serve on subcommittees, provide refreshments, and to help with fundraising.
Watch for announcements regarding special build days – such as Mother-Daughter events, group events, and more.
If you and/or your group would like to participate, please contact our volunteer coordinator, MaryGrace Borisow at (281-820-2307) or volunteer@habitatnwhc.org
Is it a problem if I don’t have any construction skills?
Don’t worry! Many women come to Women Build sites with no construction skills at all and still make a great impact. Training will be provided in a safe, friendly atmosphere.