Funding for Veterans Community Project and the Independence School District strengthens housing stability and workforce development
The Home Builders Charitable Foundation is making a tangible impact across the Kansas City region by investing in both housing stability and the future construction workforce. This year, two grant recipients — the Veterans Community Project (VCP) and the Independence School District — are putting those dollars to work in ways that directly support the individuals, families and students they serve.
Restoring Dignity Through Housing and Services
Funding from the KCHBA membership helped power the success of the Foundation’s “Home for the Holidays” campaign, which raised more than the goal of $10,000. The funds will be used by VCP to furnish tiny homes for veterans transitioning out of homelessness, helping transform empty spaces into fully equipped, dignified living environments.
“When we furnish a home, we’re not just providing furniture. We’re helping restore a sense of dignity and stability,” said Chris Admire, executive director of Veterans Community Project. “It’s the difference between having a roof over your head and truly feeling like you are home.”
Admire explained that the additional funds will give VCP flexibility to meet veterans’ needs in meaningful ways, whether that means fully outfitting multiple homes, covering household essentials, or supporting wraparound services that help residents maintain long-term stability. As federal resources continue to shift, community-based support has become even more essential.
“Community support like this allows us to respond quickly and thoughtfully,” Admire added. “It ensures we can meet people where they are and help them move forward.”
Where Learning Takes Shape: Inside the Playhouse Project
In the Independence School District, a $6,000 grant from the Home Builders Charitable Foundation is fueling hands-on learning through a student-built playhouse project. The initiative gives students real-world construction experience while teaching technical skills, budgeting and project management.
“This grant allows us to turn classroom concepts into something students can actually touch, build and be proud of,” said construction trades instructor, Dennis O’Connell. “Students are learning how to measure materials, work with different types of windows, install siding, and think about transportation and assembly.”
Designed to be fully transportable, the playhouse will be on display in a few months at Union Station during the KCHBA’s Parade of Playhouses, where it will be auctioned to the public to benefit Science City and its STEM programming.
In addition, O’Connell’s students are collaborating with special needs students to build exterior planters that will be placed beside the playhouse as part of the display, reinforcing the project’s emphasis on inclusion, teamwork and real-world impact.
Preparing Students for the Real World
O’Connell emphasized that the experience goes beyond construction skills. Students learn how to problem-solve, work as a team and manage a real budget—mirroring the realities of professional job sites.
“Those skills translate directly into the workforce,” O’Connell said. “We’re helping students see what’s possible for their futures.”
Investing in People and Possibility
Together, these projects reflect the Home Builders Charitable Foundation’s dual mission: expanding access to safe, stable housing while building a strong pipeline of skilled trades professionals. From furnishing homes for veterans to empowering students through hands-on construction experience, the Foundation’s investments are creating lasting benefits for the region.
To learn more about the Home Builders Charitable Foundation or support future initiatives, visit kchba.org and follow KCHBA on social media.
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