LMC TogetHER Ambassadors recently hosted an inspiring Lunch and Learn event featuring leadership from Habitat for Humanity Philadelphia and Habitat for Humanity of Montgomery and Delaware Counties. This engaging fireside chat provided attendees with valuable insights into the experiences of women in leadership, particularly in male-dominated industries like construction, while also highlighting the impact of affordable housing access on women and their communities.
The discussion centered on the challenges and successes of women in the trades and leadership roles, offering attendees a unique opportunity to learn from industry leaders.
Moderator:
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Kathryn Fernandez, Chief Development Officer, Habitat Philadelphia
Panelists:
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Lois Napper, Homeowner Services Manager, Habitat Philadelphia
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Zee Whitmer, Carpentry Fellowship Instructor, Habitat Philadelphia
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Katie Vorce, Chief Operations Officer, Habitat for Humanity of Montgomery and Delaware Counties
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Brittney Crenshaw, Director of Program Services, Habitat for Humanity of Montgomery and Delaware Counties
Key Takeaways from the Discussion:
The panelists shared compelling personal stories and professional insights, illustrating both the triumphs and challenges faced by women in male-dominated industries.
Lois Napper spoke about her journey in homeowner services, emphasizing the deep satisfaction that comes from helping families achieve homeownership. She highlighted the importance of perseverance and community support in overcoming barriers.
Zee Whitmer, who teaches carpentry, recounted her experiences in the field and in the classroom, sharing how mentorship and training have been critical in her success. She underscored the need for more women to enter the trades and the importance of fostering inclusive learning environments.
Katie Vorce and Brittney Crenshaw discussed their leadership roles in Habitat for Humanity, reflecting on the challenges they’ve faced as women in the nonprofit housing sector. They emphasized the impact of strong mentorship networks and the need for continuous advocacy to ensure more women can access leadership opportunities in construction and housing.
Beyond sharing personal stories, the panelists also provided practical insights into strategies for overcoming adversity in male-dominated fields. They spoke about the significance of training programs, mentorship, and the value of a supportive professional network in advancing their careers.
In addition to the fireside chat, attendees gained a deeper understanding of Habitat for Humanity’s mission and explored ways to support affordable housing advocacy and access in collaboration with the Philadelphia and Montgomery and Delaware County Habitat affiliates.
The Lunch and Learn was a powerful reminder of the resilience and leadership of women in the trades. It inspired attendees to take action, whether by mentoring the next generation, advocating for affordable housing, or exploring new career opportunities in the industry.
In addition to the fireside chat, attendees gained a deeper understanding of Habitat for Humanity’s mission and explored ways to support affordable housing advocacy and access in collaboration with the Philadelphia and Montgomery and Delaware County Habitat affiliates.. The discussion also shed light on Habitat’s homeowner repair services, which provide critical assistance to low-income homeowners, helping them remain in their homes safely and comfortably while preserving affordable housing in their communities.
The Lunch and Learn was a testament to the strength and resilience of women in the trades and leadership, inspiring attendees to take action and support efforts to build stronger, more inclusive communities.
