What is a Habitat Youth Build?

A Habitat for Humanity Youth Build is more than just a construction project—it’s a transformative experience that equips young people with skills, confidence, and a sense of purpose. This initiative provides students with hands-on training in construction, teaching them practical skills such as framing, using construction equipment, and drywall installation while also emphasizing teamwork, problem-solving, and leadership.

Students Problem-Solve

“One thing I have learned from this experience of building a house is that it’s important to have patience and get your measurements right. For example, while doing the floor joists it is important to get the wood in the right place, so the rest of the measurements of the house can stay accurate.”

– Jocelyn, Menasha High School Student

Beyond the job site, Youth Build fosters a deeper understanding of the housing crisis and the impact that safe, affordable homes have on families in our community. Students work alongside experienced volunteers, industry professionals, and Habitat staff, gaining mentorship and exposure to careers in the skilled trades. Through this experience, students not only build homes but also develop responsibility and an understanding of the importance of giving back to their community.

“Working alongside Fox Cities Habitat was great. All the staff and volunteers were so helpful in teaching the kids. This experience wouldn’t be possible for us without Habitat”

– Brian A, Menasha Tech Ed Teacher

By partaking in Youth Build, young people contribute directly to creating positive change while preparing for their own futures. Whether they pursue careers in construction, or simply carry forward the values of community and compassion, the lessons learned during Youth Build stay with them for a lifetime.

“This experience has shown me that I enjoy doing this type of work and will think about it in the future”

– Kolin, Menasha High School Student

For the 2024 Youth Build, Fox Cities Habitat for Humanity partnered with students from the technical education course at Menasha High School, giving them the opportunity to work alongside our skilled staff and senior crew volunteers to bring this home to life. This home is part of Fox Cities Habitat’s ongoing Youth Build initiative, which, over the years, has successfully completed seven Youth Build projects across the region, collaborating with the Appleton School District, Menasha, and Kimberly High Schools to empower the next generation of builders. In 2025, we are thrilled to kick off our 8th Youth Build, continuing this incredible tradition of education, teamwork, and community transformation!

Preparing Students for Success

“My goal as an educator is to get students in a position to find something that they want to do. I really liked the idea that this project was hands-on and out of the classroom. The students got the opportunity to learn exactly what it’s like to work in a real-world scenario and gave them a look into the life and job skills they will need to be successful after high school”

– Brian A, Menasha Tech Ed Teacher

The Youth Build showcases to students that hard work and dedication pays off. They start with an open foundation and finish with a completed home; a powerful reminder that their efforts create real, lasting change. As we celebrate the success and completion of this year’s home build, we want to reflect on all those who made this project possible. The success of this year’s Youth Build wouldn’t be possible without the incredible support of our sponsors. Their generosity helps provide hands-on learning experiences for students while making homeownership a reality for a local family.

A special thank you to:

Miron Construction Co.
State Farm Insurance
American Quality Homes
Wallace Family Foundation
Malarkey Roofing Products
County Materials Corporation
NARI of Northeast Wisconsin
Neenah Enterprises, Inc.
American Overhead Door
Al Neuenfeldt Excavating LLC
Portside Builders
Menasha Utilities
Carow Land Surveying Co., Inc.
Corbett Construction & Realty

Their commitment to strengthening our community and inspiring the next generation of skilled tradespeople makes a lasting impact.

If you’re passionate about helping young people explore careers in the trades while making homeownership possible for more families, we invite you to support the 2025 Youth Build. Your contribution ensures that students gain valuable experience while making a real difference in our community.

Contact Nadine at (920) 378-1104 or nadinej@foxcitieshabitat.org to get involved today.

Click here Youth Build or the button below to donate!

Donate to the Youth build

Back to blog