Special Report: Building homes and confidence with Habitat for Humanity’s Women’s Build Week

(Update: Adding video)

REDMOND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Bend-Redmond Habitat for Humanity is hosting their first Women’s Build Week since 2019, a rewarding experience for all involved.

"It's something that Habitat affiliates across the across the country have been doing since the early 90s. It's an opportunity to get women more involved on the construction sites,” said Carly Colgan, CEO for the organization.

Bend-Redmond Habitat said it was expecting 80 to 100 women volunteers throughout the week to help with construction on five solar-powered homes in Redmond. There are two build shifts for individuals and/or teams of up to 10 people each day.

Sherry Jacobs has been volunteering with Habitat for Humanity for the past 20 years. She's part of a group in Central Oregon called "Women in Construction," consisting of interior designers, architects and engineers.

"That's actually how I found out about this year's Women's Build," Jacobs said.

Although some volunteers have previous experience with construction, it's not required. There is an orientation during the event, where volunteers learn tool safety.

"No experience necessary, and no judgment happens here. It's a great opportunity just to learn new skills," said Colgan.

Habitat for Humanity worker Lydia Morgan says it's been great to get outside her comfort zone.

"I was an architecture major back in school, but I did a lot more learning on paper than I did, like, onsite. So it's been cool to be able to sort of use those skills," Morgan said. "It is really empowering."

Bend-Redmond Habitat for Humanity's CEO says there are some families moving into these homes, including Karia Garcia and her three dogs.

"There are one-bedroom, two-bedroom and three-bedroom, so we do have some families," Colgan said.

Garcia said, “The spot right behind me is going to be our future house.”

She sent in an application for one of the homes and was surprised to be selected as a recipient.

“I thought, 'Wow, there's so many people that apply. The chances are low,'" Garcia said. "And then I ended up getting a call, and I was chosen!”

The homes are expected to be completed by August.

According to Habitat's website, the organization provides affordable homeownership opportunities for low to moderate income families through its Homeownership Program. 

"The fact that there are so many people that care about affordable homeownership for those that are low-income is actually really incredible." Garcia said.

If you're interested in future volunteer opportunities, head over to their website.