What is Wahine Build?
Wahine Build is Honolulu Habitat’s newest initiative to empower and mobilize women for the cause of affordable housing in Hawaii. During March 2022, women from all walks of life will join forces to raise funds and help build a home in Waimanalo, HI.
How does Habitat empower women?
The mission of Wahine Build is to empower women to help families build strength stability and independence. We at Habitat can provide opportunities for hands-on learning, and given these tools, women can succeed in changing their communities.
Who can join? Are men allowed?
Wahine Build is about providing a comfortable, empowering learning environment for women to learn the skills needed to build a home. Wahine Build is not about excluding men- it’s about including women. Due to limited availability, priority scheduling will be provided to women. Men are welcome to get involved as event support volunteers and advocates for Wahine Build.
All build site volunteers must be 16+. Volunteers under 18 require a waiver signed by a parent or guardian.
How can I be part of Wahine Build?
There is more than one way to join Wahine Build:
- Volunteer on the build site to help construct a home with Habitat (apply here)
- Attend the Wahine Build Launch Party on February 25, 2022*
- Join a Wahine Build Skill Workshop*
- Become a Wahine Build Ambassador*
- Sponsor Wahine Build
*Details will be announced mid-January
Do I need construction experience?
No construction experience is necessary. We welcome women from all walks of life, regardless of industry or skill, to join us. Our staff and site supervisors will provide on-site training and provide all the tools and materials needed to complete the tasks at hand.
When are the build days?
We currently have three “open” volunteer build days in March:
- Friday, March 11th (8am – 3pm)
- Saturday, March 19th (8am – 3pm)
- Friday, March 25th (8am – 3pm)
Additional build days may be added based on the project schedule. Be sure to join the Wahine Build mailing list to get updates!
Please explain the registration process. Why do I have to apply?
There are limited volunteer spots available during Wahine Build. Volunteer applications are accepted January 1 – January 15, 2022. Volunteers will be randomly selected based on availability. If you are selected for a build day, we will email you with instructions for completing your registration. You must complete your registration within 72 hours of receiving your invitation email. If you do not register within 72 hours, your spot will be forfeited to a volunteer on the waitlist.
What is included in my Wahine Build registration?
Volunteers who are selected for a build day and complete their registration will receive:
- A personal Wahine Build fundraising page
- Complimentary ticket to the Wahine Build Launch Party
- Wahine Build swag bag
- Catered lunch on your Build Day
- Wahine Build t-shirt
Why is there a fundraising requirement? Where does the money go?
Every Wahine Build volunteer commits to raising at least $250 to reach our goal of $25,000.
Every dollar raised will directly support Habitat’s housing projects on Oahu. Funds cover essential construction costs such as tools, safety equipment and supplies, as well as event costs.
When is the fundraising deadline? What happens if I don't reach the fundraising commitment?
The fundraising deadline is April 15, 2022.
Participants that don’t achieve the $250 commitment will be responsible for the difference. A payment method will be collected at the time of registration.
How will I raise money?
We will provide everything you need to successfully reach your fundraising goal, including:
- A custom online fundraising page
- Fundraising toolkit
- Social sharing resources
- Sample messaging to send to friends & family
- Individual support by Habitat staff
