Building Women, Not Just Houses
Founded in 1991 by Habitat for Humanity, Women Build is a program that encourages the involvement of women in the construction of Habitat homes.
Nationwide, more than 60% of Habitat homeowners are female heads of household. Since 2019, that number locally is almost 75%.
Any woman who wants to learn how to build a home is invited to join Women Build. The atmosphere is collaborative and friendly, and no experience is necessary. Whether you are learning new skills or simply adding a few to your tool belt, Women Build is a rewarding experience for all involved, and improves the community we share.
Join us!
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Construction Opportunities
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Check here for upcoming Women Build days open to the public.
No experience is needed. Our female construction staff and crew chiefs are glad to teach you everything you’ll need to accomplish the task(s) at hand.
Important: Women Build days are extremely popular, and we often have a waitlist. Due to this, we ask that if you are unable to attend your registered shift you please cancel in our system. You will also be asked to confirm your participation by email one week in advance . Those who don’t confirm will be dropped from the event to ensure those who want to participate have a space.
Please also note:
- Volunteers must be at least 16 years old, and those under age 18 must be accompanied by parent or guardian.
- Tacoma Habitat cannot sign off on court-ordered volunteer mandates.
Thanks to the 2023/2024 Women Build sponsors:
with additional support from:
McKinney Trailer Rentals
Robblee’s Total Security, Inc.
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Something New in 2025
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We’ve got big plans for Women Build in 2025!
Stay tuned for news about the exciting new initiative, and how you and your network can support affordable housing in Pierce County through Women Build. If your organization is interested in Women Build sponsorship opportunities, please reach out to us for details.
In the meantime, be sure to check out our monthly Women Build construction opportunities through the end of 2024, and/or join the Women Build Facebook group.
Tacoma Public Utilities, a long-time supporter of Women Build, shared this video about their 2023 day on site.
History of Women Build
In 1991 a group of women in Charlotte, NC completed the first women-built Habitat for Humanity house, planting the seeds for Habitat for Humanity’s Women Build program.
In 1997, first lady Hillary Clinton participated in a Women Build along with the first ladies from Kentucky and Oklahoma.
By 1998, Women Build had become an official Habitat for Humanity program.
The Tacoma/Pierce County Habitat for Humanity affiliate has been participating in Women Build since 2001. Over 100 women volunteer each year, contributing time and funds to Habitat, as well as support to one another and to Habitat homeowners.
Women Build is growing internationally as well, empowering women everywhere to address poverty housing for themselves, their families, and their neighbors. Dozens of international Women Builds have taken place. The program aims to direct financial assistance to women-led projects worldwide.
Visit Habitat for Humanity International’s website for a comprehensive Women Build History.
