On Tuesday, March 7th, 228 guests gathered to kick off the 13th annual Women Build campaign! We hosted the party at the Forest Country Club in Fort Myers, and for the first time in Women Build history, it was a sold-out event.
At the event, volunteers, donors, SuperPeople, and Women Build Fundraising Teams witnessed Quinette’s resilient journey to homeownership. Quinette walked through Habitat’s doors over a decade ago, looking for a permanent place to call home. Through Habitat’s free, HUD-certified housing counseling, Quinette was provided with the tools and the opportunity to achieve her goals and dreams. Now, she is partnering with Habitat through our Affordable Homeownership Program to build and purchase a home she can afford.
Also at the event, Habitat CEO Becky Lucas shared the critical need for affordable housing in Lee County, with our area ranked number one twice recently—and not in a good way. The Cape Coral-Fort Myers metro area has been named the country’s most overvalued housing market for those looking to purchase a home. It has also been named the country’s most overvalued rental market—with the average rent being more than $2,200 a month.
This critical need is why our work together is so important and points to why Habitat homes are referred to as trampolines rather than safety nets. As evidence, we experienced Danay’s emotional story exemplifying the impact a decent, affordable home can make, with the potential to build peace, financial stability and true empowerment.
As a result, 12 men and women became SuperPeople—pledging their financial support to Women Build over the next five years. You can still join the force of women and men who are the foundation of Women Build! Click here to become a SuperPerson.
Thank you to everyone who attended, donated, and continues to build for empowerment. Together, we will raise $400,000 during this campaign to build and fully fund the cost of two Habitat for Humanity homes in partnership with future homeowners Sarah and Veronica!
About Women Build
The mission of Women Build is to engage women in the effort to provide safe and decent homes for families in need of affordable housing. Women Build in Lee and Hendry Counties has partnered with 27 female-headed families to build strength and stability for their children through local fundraising and volunteer efforts. Click here to learn more.
