Women Build 2009 has arrived

Habitat supporters woke up to a luminous morning on the day of June 15, 2009, ready for the annual WomenBuild kick-off. The kick-off took place in a welcoming South Minneapolis neighborhood, right across the street from Field Middle School.

Created by Habitat for Humanity International, WomenBuild projects have empowered women all over the world to make a difference in their communities. WomenBuild projects also offer a unique approach toward achieving our mission of eliminating poverty housing in the Twin Cities.

Sue Haigh president, of Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity (TCHFH) gave a few opening words to welcome everyone to WomenBuild 2009. Cathy Scoville of Lowe’s lead a call and response activity that got everyone fired up and ready to raise the first wall of Basara Hersi’s, house in Minneapolis. Basara is from the Somalian capital of Mogadishu. She will be living in this new habitat home with her daughter Ladan and two sons Yahye and Anas.

Following the warm introduction was Speaker of the House Margaret Anderson Kelliher who read the WomenBuild proclamation; which was signed by Governor Tim Pawlenty. Upon reading the proclamation Kellier said "It was a beautiful morning to begin something new." Subsequently, the event proceeded with a special guest that Habitat was honored to have at WomenBuild 2009. It was none other than Senator Amy Klobuchar herself. Klochuchar spoke briefly and extended a sincere congratulation to Basara and her future in the new home. Other women that made this event possible included, Elizabeth Glidden—Minneapolis City Council Ward 8, Neighborhood Representative Tricia Hall and site supervisor Betsy Reller, whom without, the day’s event would not have been possible.

Lead sponsors for WomenBuild 2009 are Wells Fargo the Joyful Women Fund and the Hugh J.Andersen Foundation. Lowe's is a national sponsor of WomenBuild.

WomenBuild 2009 was truly a wonderful celebration for Basara, her family and all the support contributed by the community. Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity (TCHFH) is proud to have successfully completed multiple homes locally within 11 years of WomenBuild. In the end, "the WomenBuild event celebrates women, but also celebrates strong communities and strong families" said Minneapolis Council member Elizabeth Glidden.

Contributed by: Nadvia Davis