LOVELAND – “The House that She Built” is a children’s book that educates young readers about the people and skills that go into building a home. It tells the true story of an inspiring group of women who came together to build a one-of-a-kind house.
Less than 3 percent of build sites have women workers. The Utah Home Builders Association’s Professional Women in Building Council wanted to change that. They decided to build a house from the ground up.
“The House that She Built” project utilized skilled tradeswomen and women-owned companies for every stage of the home build. They designed and constructed a 3,200-square foot, four-bedroom, three-and-a-half bathroom home. As the project’s momentum grew, women from across the country traveled to the site in Utah to pitch in and make the home become a reality.
The book’s authors, Mollie Elkman and Georgia Castellano were part of the project. They created the overall branding and marketing that generated donations, labor and media coverage. They were so inspired by the experience that they wanted to share it with future generations.
“The House that She Built” children’s book tells the story of talented individuals coming together for a shared goal. Kids learn about the skills of the architect, framer, roofer and many more. It’s a story about individual talents and how they factor into teamwork. The characters work together to complete the new home. With clever words and beautiful illustrations, the book gets kids excited about their own skills and piques their interest in the homebuilding industry.
Baessler Homes and Associates in Building + Design will give away 100 copies of “The House that She Built” each day at the Home & Remodeling Show, April 22 through 24, 2022. They will also give away 100 related workbooks, along with other swag for the kids. The Home & Remodeling Show will also have fun activities for children in attendance.
“The homebuilding industry is full of opportunities for women,” said Heather Schreiner, owner of Associates in Building + Design. “This book is a fun and inspiring way to share this idea with future leaders. We want young girls to know they belong here.”
The book can also be a helpful tool for families who are building or moving into a new home. It shows every step of the homebuilding process; from design to pouring the foundation and building walls to putting on the roof. This exploration of the steps is really fun for kids to follow along with as their families are building a new home. It makes them feel like they’re part of the process.
“Kids love to create. They love to build things with their hands,” said Alison Johnson, owner and construction coordinator at Associates in Building + Design. “It’s fun to help kids realize, especially young girls, that the building industry is one where you get to spend your life creating homes for your neighbors.”
The Northern Colorado HBA Home & Remodeling Show is at the Ranch Events Complex. Tickets are $5 for adults, free for children. For more information visit northcoloradohomeshow.com.
For more information about the book visit shebuiltbook.com.
