Women Build Event puts tools into hands of new Habitat for Humanity volunteers

RAPID CITY, S.D. (KEVN) - Volunteers were seen digging deep on the northeast side of Rapid City Wednesday, giving back to the community in an effort to build a home for someone else.

“I’ve had the opportunity to be at a home blessing once a house has been completed and it’s being handed to the family. So, to be able to participate and actually putting together some of the work for a new family to own this property has been very rewarding,” said volunteer Stephanie Eliasom.

Under the guidance of construction professionals, eight volunteers worked on building a shed and moving dirt around the house for drainage.

The group included a mix of experienced and inexperienced volunteers. Resource Development Administrator for Black Hills Area Habitat for Humanity Kenzie Oswald says it was great to see the women work together.

“It’s really cool because they are building, so when it’s done, they can say, ‘Hey I built that, that’s really cool. I’m helping a family achieve their dream of home ownership,’” said Oswald.

She added it was fulfilling to see the women conduct work that is stereotypically associated with men.

“There are strong women out there that are independent and want to expand their knowledge. And so, a lot of them, that might be why they’re here is to that, but they also have that heart of service to help other people as well,” said Oswald.

Eliasom says working with people who share the same passion for community building was fun.

“Well coming together this morning, I don’t believe any of us really knew each other as far as the volunteers. A couple maybe knew each other passingly, but we’ve gotten to share our own stories and our own connections to our community. And what drives us to want to help with something like this,” said Eliasom.

She added the work gave her an itch to do more construction work in the future.

“I know I’m gonna be back. I’m gonna do this again, I’m going to come back to other build sites and volunteer whether it’s a Women’s Build week or not, I’m going to be here,” said Eliasom.

The Women Build event takes place through Saturday in Rapid City and Box Elder.

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