March is Women’s History Month and Women Build Month

March is Women’s History Month, but did you know that the Coastal Empire Habitat for Humanity has designated March as Women Build Month?

Originating in 1991, Habitat’s Women Build Month provides a platform for women to come together and effect positive change through construction projects and community outreach.

Our local Women Build event has evolved into a monthlong celebration of empowerment and collaboration. It’s encouraging to witness women from all walks of life unite, contributing their time and expertise to address the affordable housing crisis. Through Women Build, we not only construct homes but also dismantle stereotypes and empower women to lead in traditionally male-dominated industries.

The blending of these profound observances, Women’s History Month and Women Build Month, serves as a beacon of inspiration, reminding us of the countless trailblazers who defied conventions and shattered glass ceilings. It also underscores the importance of representation, highlighting the achievements of women in STEM fields and inspiring more women to pursue STEM-related careers, leading to greater diversity and innovation within those professions.

For Women Build Month, Coastal Empire Habitat for Humanity has partnered with the local chapter of National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC). This partnership amplifies our impact and furthers our shared mission of promoting gender diversity and inclusion in the construction industry. Through collaborative efforts, we harness the collective power of women to drive meaningful change within our community. From volunteer engagement to educational initiatives, our partnership with NAWIC exemplifies the transformative potential of collaboration.

Serving on the board for Coastal Empire Habitat for Humanity has been a cornerstone of my commitment to giving back to my community. Since 2020, I’ve been privileged to work alongside dedicated individuals who share a common goal of advocating for affordable homeownership. Habitat’s mission resonates with me, reflecting the belief that everyone deserves a safe and stable place to call home. As a Habitat board member, Women Build Month gives me the opportunity to be part of something bigger, contribute to positive social change, and help create a community where everyone has access to safe, stable, and affordable housing.

While Habitat for Humanity is an international organization continuously working to break down barriers around affordable home ownership, our local affiliate has been partnering with families in the Coastal Empire for more than 40 years to assist in their path to homeownership. Through our program, we not only build homes, but we also empower women to become homeowners, fostering stability and self-sufficiency within our community.

As we celebrate Women’s History Month and Women Build Month, let us not only honor the women who paved the way but also commit ourselves to building a more equitable and inclusive future.

Together, we can break down barriers, empower women, and create communities where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. The legacy we leave will be one of progress, resilience, and boundless potential.

I encourage everyone to get involved in Women Build Month as well as our other exciting Habitat programs. Please visit our Coastal Empire Habitat for Humanity website for more information about Women Build Month activities.

Jen Roach is deputy city engineer in the City of Savannah’s Development Services Department and Board Director of Coastal Empire Habitat for Humanity.