I salute all the women who have touched our lives

We are fortunate to have amazing volunteers, many are women, at the job site and in the ReStore.

As we ride in on the excitement of the Women Build scheduled for May 5 – 12, I am filled with pride for the women who have shaped our affiliate over the years.

Female CEO’s, board members, volunteers, homeowners – you name it; we have been richly blessed. It is no wonder that there are so many women ready to put on the hardhats, t-shirts and tool belts and get to work. Not only are they willing to do the physical labor, but they are out there fundraising for the opportunity for a family to have a place to call home.

Women are a powerful source in and of themselves.

Lori Valdez, Past Board President, and Joani Costello, GAHH Executive Director

Throughout history, women have had fewer rights and opportunities than men, yet when they were allowed personal and intellectual freedoms, they made significant strides. They have made untold contributions to history and played vital roles in the course of human civilization. In the US, women have shaped our history as well as our country’s future.

It is said that “empowerment of women” means strengthening the social, economic and educational powers of women. It helps develop society and leads to more economic benefits such as a decrease in domestic violence, reduced poverty and increased levels of education. Greater Albuquerque Habitat for Humanity has plenty of evidence to support that.

Of the world’s population, 50% is comprised of women.

50% of GAHH homeowners are women, many are single mothers like Melissa and Shade.

For our affiliate, the same holds true, 50% of our homeowners are women; many of them single mothers trying to make a difference for themselves and their children. Their partnership with us enables them to freely live their life with a sense of self-worth, respect and dignity. They are empowered by the safety and stability of owning a decent, affordable shelter and the hope of achieving equal status in their community.

Time after time, we see how Habitat home owners continue to reach higher through education, job security and financial independence. I salute them and all the women who have touched our lives. The power to overcome life’s challenges lies in their hands.

-Joan Costello, Executive Director

More about Women Build 2018