March is Women’s History Month, a time to recognize and celebrate the achievements of women who have shaped our world. Women have played a pivotal role in history, from breaking barriers in male-dominated industries to leading the charge for social justice. In housing, construction, and community development, female trailblazers have paved the way for affordable, inclusive, and accessible housing solutions. Their contributions continue to inspire and empower future generations to take action.
Women Build 2025: Breaking Barriers, Building Homes
March 8th is International Women’s Day, a global celebration of women's social, economic, cultural, and political contributions. In honor of this day, Habitat for Humanity MontDelco’s Women Build initiative empowers women, fosters collaboration, and addresses the affordable housing crisis in our community. Women of all ages unite to build secure homes that provide hope, stability, and opportunity for families in Montgomery and Delaware Counties.
We invite you to participate in Women Build 2025! Form a team of friends, family, or coworkers and sign up to raise $5,000 (or more!) today. No experience is necessary, just a desire to break barriers and make a meaningful difference.
If you cannot participate, you can still show your support by donating to help the teams reach their fundraising goals!
Celebration of our Empowered Female Homeowners
Women are becoming homeowners at an unprecedented rate, breaking barriers in an industry that men have historically dominated. We dedicate Women Build 2025 to the incredible women in our Habitat community who have taken the courageous step toward homeownership. These women have overcome challenges, navigated obstacles, and worked hard to provide stable, secure homes for themselves and their families. The Women Build initiative is a testament to the power of collective action, proving that when women come together, they don’t just build homes—they build lasting change in their communities.
Women Who Paved the Way in Housing & Community Development
Throughout history, women have been at the forefront of housing advocacy, urban planning, and affordable housing solutions. Their vision and determination have shaped policies, built communities, and empowered generations. Here are just a few of the incredible women who have led the way:
Biddy Mason (1818–1891): Born into slavery in 1818, Biddy secured her freedom at 38 after successfully challenging her enslaver in California District Court. As a free woman, she moved to Los Angeles, where she worked as a nurse and midwife. Over time, Mason carefully saved her earnings and began purchasing land in downtown LA. Building an impressive real estate portfolio, Mason became one of Los Angeles' first prominent figures. Her impact extended beyond real estate—she also helped organize First A.M.E. Church, the oldest African American church in LA and went on to establish a traveler’s aid center and an elementary school for Black children.
Jane Addams (1860-1935): Jane was the first American woman to win the Nobel Peace Prize. She felt a profound responsibility to drive positive social change throughout her life. Addams was instrumental in expanding kindergartens and daycares for working mothers, job training for women, and various other social services for low-income families in Chicago by founding the renowned Hull House. She was also a strong advocate for women's suffrage and played a key role in founding the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP).
Catherine Bauer (1905–1964): Catherine was a pioneering leader in the fight for affordable housing. Her forward-thinking approach to housing policy made her the primary author of America’s first affordable housing legislation—the U.S. Housing Act of 1937. Bauer’s influence on housing and urban planning strategies extended across the administrations of three U.S. presidents.
Jane Jacobs (1916–2006): Jane was a writer and activist who championed a community-driven approach to urban planning. In her 1961 treatise, The Death and Life of Great American Cities, she asserted, “Cities have the capability of providing something for everybody, only because, and only when, they are created by everybody.” Jacobs was known for her innovative vision of vibrant communities, emphasizing parks and public spaces that served residents' needs.
Shirley Wiseman (1930-2020): Shirley was a trailblazer in the homebuilding industry, making history as the first woman to serve as president of the National Association of Home Builders in 1989. A natural leader, Wiseman also founded the Home Owners Warranty Corp. in Lexington, KY, and became its first president in 1976. Throughout her career, she has championed numerous causes for disabled Americans and founded Lexington Housing for the Handicapped.
Patricia Roberts Harris (1924–1985): In 1977, Patricia became the first African American woman to hold a cabinet position when she was appointed Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). As HUD Secretary, Harris focused on revitalizing deteriorating neighborhoods and attracting businesses to impoverished areas. She was a strong advocate for combating housing discrimination and rehabilitating communities in need.
Join Us in Empowering Families Through Shelter
The contributions of trailblazing women remind us of the power of collective action and advocacy. Your support—whether through time, your voice, or a financial contribution—helps build more than homes; it builds brighter futures for families in Montgomery and Delaware Counties. At Habitat for Humanity MontDelco, we believe a safe, stable home is the foundation for growth and opportunity. Access to affordable housing gives families the security to thrive, the space to create cherished memories, and the comfort of having a place to call home.
Visit our website to explore how you can contribute to our transformative work. Together, we can help more families achieve strength, stability, and self-reliance through shelter.
Sources:
Comments