Support Affordable Homeownership at Honolulu Habitat for Humanity’s Annual Fundraiser “Hard Hats and High Heels”
[Oʻahu, Hawaiʻi – July 26, 2023] – Honolulu Habitat for Humanity is excited to host its 2nd annual Hard Hats and High Heels signature fundraiser at Cafe Julia at the YWCA Oʻahu in Downtown Honolulu. On Saturday, August 26, the intimate, red-carpet soiree will unite community members, Hawaiʻi’s ambassadors as well as business and community leaders, who are committed to building affordable homes for low-income families on the island of Oʻahu. Guests will enjoy delectable bites, delicious signature cocktails, live entertainment, a silent auction, interactive experiences, and more. Plus, Brook Lee, former Miss Hawaii USA, Miss USA, and Miss Universe, will serve as emcee.
This year’s Hard Hats and High Heels event will honor Melissa Humphrey, Project Manager at Layton Construction. Born on Oʻahu, Melissa is blazing trails for future generations. Since joining Layton’s construction management team in 2015, Melissa has supported a variety of complex projects ranging from a 40-story high rise multifamily residential tower to the expansion of a premier children’s hospital and, most recently, the world’s largest standing wave pool.
Through her leadership positions on Honolulu Habitat’s Wahine Build committee and the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) Board of Directors, Melissa is working to support a more diverse and inclusive workforce across the Hawaiian Islands. This spring, Melissa helped develop a new youth engagement program for Habitat’s Wahine Build to empower Hawaiʻi’s next generation of women leaders. These workshops, hosted in partnership with Mālama Honua Charter School, provide hands-on training and a supportive learning environment where girls are encouraged to step outside their comfort zone and learn new skills.
“Melissa Humphrey is an inspiring force of compassion and dedication,” said TJ Joseph, Chief Executive Officer, Honolulu Habitat for Humanity. “Her unwavering commitment to the community and tireless efforts in building a brighter future for families in Hawaiʻi truly sets her apart. With a heart as strong as her spirit, Melissa has shown us what it means to be a true advocate for affordable housing, empowering countless lives along the way. As we honor Melissa, we celebrate not just her professional achievements but the lasting impact she has made on our organization and the lives of those we serve,” she added.
After 35 years, Habitat for Humanity remains the only organization on the island of Oʻahu that provides comprehensive affordable homeownership and new home construction opportunities to low-income families. Furthermore, this organization consists of a simple group – mostly volunteers – who are builders and changemakers in the island’s community. It is only with the support of generous patrons that Honolulu Habitat can continue to transform the lives of so many across Oʻahu. This event also invites several companies to join this meaningful movement. Event partners include American Savings Bank, Layton Construction, and Coldwell Banker Realty Cares Foundation. Sponsorship opportunities are still available. Please contact bri@honoluluhabitat.org for more information.
By centering this event around the themes of builders and teamwork, Honolulu Habitat honors the community members who strive to strengthen our communities. The event offers these hard workers an evening of elegance and excitement. Although trading in work boots for evening wear, attendees will still be working towards the betterment of their island community by raising funds to construct affordable housing and garner hope. With the success of events such as these, Honolulu Habitat will continue to work towards its mission of achieving a world – and island – where everyone has adequate housing and hope for a brighter, more equitable future.
Tickets to the Hard Hats & High Heels event on Saturday, August 26 are $100 per person. To learn more or to purchase a ticket, please visit www.honoluluhabitat.org.
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ABOUT HONOLULU HABITAT FOR HUMANITY
Founded in 1988 as an independent affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International, Honolulu Habitat has served more than 450 individuals across Oʻahu through new home construction and critical home repairs. We rally thousands of volunteers every year to become part of the solution to Hawaiʻi’s affordable housing crisis.
MEDIA CONTACT
Kira DiIonno
Candela Strategy Group
kira@candelastrategygroup.com
808.864.8597
