The Women Build is a hands-on opportunity for women to work together to create an affordable homeownership opportunity. It empowers women to take the lead in making affordable homeownership a reality for families in Polk County.

This year’s Women Build is in partnership with Blessed, a single mom who is excited to become a homeowner and start building wealth she can pass on to her kids.

Why a Women Build?

Not only do women earn 76 cents for every dollar a man earns in Iowa, 32.8% of employed women work in low-wage jobs in Iowa. The median family income was $28,924 for female head of house with children under 18 in 2018 compared to the median income for male head of house at $43,368.

Additionally, housing affordability is of the utmost importance. One in eight families in Polk County pays more than 50% of their income on housing expenses, sacrificing in other areas like healthcare, transportation, education, and purchasing healthy foods. Through the build, and the awareness we will create during the year’s events, we can create affordable homeownership opportunities and help families in Central Iowa achieve self-sufficiency.

What’s new this year?

We are proud to announce the Women Build 2023: Heart, Head, and Home Luncheon that will take place June 14th. The luncheon will focus on the connection between a safe, stable, and affordable home and your physical, mental, financial, and spiritual well-being. During the event we will hear from experts in the corresponding health fields, past Women Build homebuyers, and all proceeds will support the Women Build.

Structure

Kathryn Kunert & Kate Clark, 2023 Co-Chairs
Team Captains (20 Women)
Team Members (200+ Women)

The chair(s) takes the lead in recruiting 20 women to make up the Team Captains. Team Captains commit to raising $2,500 towards the build and recruiting nine additional women (team members) to participate in their build day. Our total goal is to raise $50,000!

Interested in being a Team Captain? Contact Clara at cbergan@gdmhabitat.org.

Timeline & Location

The Women Build will kick-off in May 2023 with volunteer dates through August. The home will be constructed at 1929 Glenbrook Drive in Des Moines, just east of Grand View University.

Thank you to our 2023 Women Build Co-Chairs Kathryn Kunert and Kate Clark!

GDM Habitat for Humanity

2200 E. Euclid Ave.
Des Moines, Iowa 50317

515-471-8686

Office Hours
Mon. – Fri. 8:00am – 4:00pm

East Euclid ReStore

2200 E. Euclid Ave.
Des Moines, Iowa 50317

515-309-0224

Store Hours
Mon. – Sat. 9:00am – 6:00pm

Urbandale ReStore

4033 NW Urbandale Dr.
Urbandale, Iowa 50322

515-309-0224

Store Hours
Mon. – Sat. 9:00am – 6:00pm