Home is where the heart is at the Master Builders Association. The non profit trade association pulled together a lot of resources in their latest fundraising project, House for Hope. They built a beautiful new home in Pierce County then opened it to the public to sell in May as part of the MBAPC’s Parade of New Homes. All funds raised from the sale of the house will be shared among MBA and with the community and schools of Tacoma.
“We think House for Hope is the start of a long standing relationship with local schools and the community. It is a wonderful way for our association to give back to the entire community,” said Tiffany Speir, executive director of MBA.
Located in Soundbuilt Homes Rock Creek new home development in Spanaway, Washington, this is the first House for Hope project for the organization. Land, labor and materials were donated by MBAPC members, volunteers and general contractor Soundbuilt Homes.
This unique fundraising project arose out of a need the association identified during the recession. Membership dropped during the recession, but Speir reported how this project and the idea of community partnering and fundraising for House for Hope helped them grow the MBA membership.
They also have a new focus on education. By placing emphasis on outreach to schools and younger people entering the home building trades, such as framers, painters, electricians, HVAC installers and drywallers, Speir believes it will create relationships with the next generation. “There’s a need for younger people. We want to help educate and train the kids who will be coming into our work force,” said Speir.
Due to the success of the project, future fundraising goals for MBA may include a second House for Hope endeavor. “We are already looking at a similar project for 2014,” said Speir.
TAMMY ROBACKER
For more information:
2013houseforhope.com