School Build Community Partnership

SUMMARY OF PROJECT

The School Build Community Partnership between the Appleton Housing Authority and the Appleton Area School District joins construction technology students from Appleton East, West and North High Schools into an inspirational and powerful workforce. This special construction team receives a truly hands-on education and unique experience while making a huge contribution to our community by building houses that incorporate universal design features, Energy Star materials and Build-Green concepts.

The partnership between AHA and AASD was nailed down in 2007 and continues to build each year as the two organizations work together to build affordable, universal houses for families in need within our communities. Since that first day of construction in 2007, the School Build Community Partnership has built three houses/duplexes, with a second duplex scheduled for 2011, at a combined value of $755,000.

With guidance provided by Gary Vanness, AASD instructor and program director, students participate in every step of the construction process from the ground up. They also work on electrical and plumbing alongside hired contractors. Vanness believes the whole experience is inspirational to the students as these high-schoolers get a chance to see first-hand the positive impact affordable housing options for independent living can have on their community.

Students also gain valuable insight into their community and an understanding of the financial difficulties in the housing market while learning what has to be done to create affordable housing for people of all income levels and our neighbors with accessibility needs.

See our School Build Community Partnership brochure for photos, quotes and more.
(PDF, 840KB)

Video coming soon!