Supporters and friends gathered on Friday, January 19 in the Lecture Hall of the Jessie Ball duPont Center in Jacksonville for the launch of the 2024 Women Build. Women Build is a nationwide movement empowering women to contribute to affordable housing solutions for other women and families in need. Since 2003, Jacksonville’s Women Build initiative has led the construction of ten homes and raised all needed funds for this cause.
The 2024 Women Build, presented by kasper architects + associates and Auld & White Constructors in partnership with the Jacksonville nonprofit Arize Together, will open the door to homeownership for a survivor of sexual exploitation. From information sessions and referrals received across a few nonprofits, applications have already been received and a special Selection Committee will be choosing a qualified homebuyer in the next month or so. The generosity of many donors ensures the home will remain affordable for many years to come.
At the Launch Event, President and CEO of HabiJax Monte Walker shared the broad vision of Women Build. HabiJax Family Engagement Director, Jesse James, then shared how the specific focus of this year’s Women Build developed over coffee conversations with Carman Kasper, CFO of kasper and co-founder of Arize Together. Representatives from Arize, kasper, and Auld and White shared why they are involved in this project, and Jacksonville City Council President Hon. Ron Salem shared a message of support on behalf of the entire Council. Dr. Tracye Polson, Director of Strategic Partnerships with the Mayor’s office, also shared words of support for the Women Build.
Construction of the eleventh Women Build home is well underway, and discussion about house number twelve is already beginning! Sponsors who would like to be part of the next Women Build are encouraged to contact Adrena Forrest, Community Partnerships Specialist by email or phone.
