Malinda Everson has been the executive director of Habitat St. Johns for nine years and has helped to grow the organization from building four-to-six houses per year to 20. She said every year, Habitat hosts a Women’s Build program. This program empowers women to build, repair homes and foster independence and stability.
The program has endured for more than 25 years and has taught volunteers how to handle challenges. International projects often discuss property rights, sanitation and education for women. Each Habitat operates individually and organizes its own Women’s Build project. The local build for Habitat St. Johns will be held on March 6-7, which is the perfect way to celebrate International Women’s Day. Women’s Build is a great way for women to learn new skills and help support others in the community.
Volunteers can register for four four-hour shifts. There is a morning and afternoon shift for both Friday and Saturday to allow for flexibility and various work schedules. Refreshments will be available and there will be a brief orientation and safety information. Volunteers will focus on caulking and painting interiors and exteriors of homes on McDonald Avenue in the Volusia Woods community in West Augustine. At lunchtime, participants will have time to enjoy good food and network with fellow volunteers. Additionally, tours of a model home, photo ops and Women Build T-shirts will be available.
“Habitat’s goal is to empower women to help families build strength, stability and independence,” Everson said. “We have the ability to provide opportunities for hands-on learning and, when offered these tools, women can succeed in changing their communities.”
Their mission is “putting God’s love into action; we bring people together to build homes, communities and hope.”
About 60% of Habitat St. Johns homeowners are single moms, elderly, veterans and essential workers. Habitat also teaches women skills to manage financial and maintenance aspects of homeownerships. “It’s a really fun day for a worthwhile cause!” said Everson.
Community support for Habitat is key, and other opportunities to volunteer are available on most weekdays. There are also opportunities to give through donations, sponsoring other builders and helping with garden projects. People love finding their own unique ways to give back, such as donating their artwork or quilts.
To learn more, go to https://habitatstjohns.org.
