WASHTENAW COUNTY, Mich. – A group of women in Washtenaw County are celebrating International Women’s Day with hammers, shovels, and wheelbarrows in hand.
It’s part of Habitat for Humanity Huron Valley’s kick-off to this year’s Women Build campaign.
“The women that are here today are leading teams of volunteers throughout the whole calendar year, typically the spring and summer,” said Leah Tessman, Director of Grants, Corporate and Faith Relations at Habitat for Humanity Huron Valley. “They’ll come out and help build a home for Habitat as well as fundraise towards habitat, donate the sponsorships, and raise money towards a $75,000 goal.”
Last International Women’s Day, a group of volunteer leaders helped put the walls up on a Ypsilanti home. This year, they leveled out the back and front yard and built a storage shed.
The projects undertaken by Habitat for Humanity Huron Valley are already transforming the lives of future homeowners. However, on a day dedicated to celebrating women, the volunteers also aim to draw attention to a more significant societal issue.
“Majority of low to mid-income homes are single female-led homes, and new affordable housing can be difficult for them,” Tessman said. “So we like to make sure that we’re here to support and also shine the light on the fact that it’s not easy for women to get homes.”
Last year, the Women Build campaign by Habitat for Humanity Huron Valley saw an impressive participation of 110 women. Together, they dedicated 740 volunteer hours and raised over $70,000, significantly impacting the community.