Habitat for Humanity - Women Build WIC Week – October 15 to October 19, 2018
Paula West
Digital Experience, Project Manager | 10+ years in Marketing & Communications, Event Planning and Client services. Passionate about people and making ripples.
50 women and $10 000
As I sat there agreeing to this, I wondered, how we would accomplish both! With Jennifer Leppard, President of WIC (Magil Construction Ontario) and faculty from the Donald J Smith School of Building Technology, Fanshawe College, by my side, we came up with a game plan to recruit 25 Women in Construction (WIC) Members to commit to the build and to fundraise enough funds for 25 female students enrolled at the Donald J. Smith School of Building Technology at Fanshawe College.
With overwhelming support from our LDCA members and partners in the construction community, our goal was met and surpassed!
67 women participated (28 students) and $17 900 was raised.
While on site WIC members began to build the future home for Brianne and her son Brayden. The home was originally planned to be a two story; however, it is now a fully accessible one-story home enabling Brianne and her son Brayden to live together longer and safely.
Every morning began with a safety chat (online health and safety training was also required prior to going on site) and a break down as to what tasks were at hand. There was also some history of how Habitat for Humanity began and some encouraging words from the construction manager George, who spoke about gender equality on the job site and how it is important to have both men and women on site as they both bring great value to the project. It was a great pep talk for everyone to hear.
The week involved placing down floor joists, laying subflooring and framing the basement. I was told that there was more work completed then they had scheduled for! Way to go team!
Weather was very fall like! Our week included moments of cold winds, rain, hail, and pockets of sunshine! The team was so grateful for layers, a warm trailer and the wonderful lunches that were provided by the many volunteers!
There was wonderful feedback from both WIC members and from the students of Fanshawe College. Positive comments about mentoring during the build have been received; that the women currently in the industry and the students were able to have relaxed conversations. I have also heard that many students are raving about the experience, and are asking when the next opportunity will be!