Women Build

Building Women, Not Just Houses

Founded in 1991 by Habitat for Humanity, Women Build is a program that encourages the involvement of women in the construction of Habitat homes.

Nationwide, more than 60% of Habitat homeowners are female heads of household. Since 2019, that number locally is almost 75%.

Any woman who wants to learn how to build a home is invited to join Women Build. The atmosphere is collaborative and friendly, and no experience is necessary. Whether you are learning new skills or simply adding a few to your tool belt, Women Build is a rewarding experience for all involved, and improves the community we share.

Join us!

Sponsorship

Tacoma Habitat is seeking sponsorships to underwrite Women Build’s 2022-23 programming. With your help, we will be able to provide one Women Build day per quarter, open to all women who wish to spend a day learning from our female construction staff and crew chiefs.

 

2023 Women Build sponsorsOur Partners 58

Robblee’s Total Security, Inc.

 

Contact Tracey Sorenson for more information on becoming a Women Build sponsor.

Construction Opportunities

Thanks to Master Builders Association of Pierce County, we are pleased to offer our first Women Build day of the year on Saturday, February 25. Sign up here.

To keep up to date on construction opportunities and other Women Build events, join the Women Build Facebook group.

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History of Women Build

In 1991 a group of women in Charlotte, NC completed the first women-built Habitat for Humanity house, planting the seeds for Habitat for Humanity’s Women Build program.

In 1997, first lady Hillary Clinton participated in a Women Build along with the first ladies from Kentucky and Oklahoma.

By 1998, Women Build had become an official Habitat for Humanity program.

The Tacoma/Pierce County Habitat for Humanity affiliate has been participating in Women Build since 2001. Over 100 women volunteer each year, contributing time and funds to Habitat, as well as support to one another and to Habitat homeowners.

Women Build is growing internationally as well, empowering women everywhere to address poverty housing for themselves, their families, and their neighbors. Dozens of international Women Builds have taken place. The program aims to direct financial assistance to women-led projects worldwide.

Visit Habitat for Humanity International’s website for a comprehensive Women Build History. 

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    2009 Women Build

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    2010 Women Build

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    2011 Women Build

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    2012 Women Build

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    2013 Women Build

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    2014 Women Build

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    2016 Women Build

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    2017 Women Build

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    2018 Women Build

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    Tacoma Public Utilities - Women Build 2019 - Tillicum

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    Anne Jones - Women Build 2019 - Tyler Court

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    2020 Women Build kick off, sponsored by Lowe's

Why I Volunteer

"Two of my favorite things about Women Build: First, reconnecting with women who have volunteered over the years. I love the first day of our builds when ladies I have not seen for a year come out to build again. Second, encouraging women to try something new. I have countless stories of women who, for instance, swore they would never go on the roof, and then, there they are! And I love teaching women new skills - power tools, framing, painting techniques. "

Alison

Habitat Volunteer since 1985