On International Women’s Day, we gathered for an unforgettable evening at the annual Hard Hats & High Heels Gala to support our 2025 Women Build initiative and raise funds for Kelly, our 2025 Women Build Homeowner. We are thrilled to share that, thanks to the generosity of our attendees and supporters, we raised an incredible $13,560 toward Kelly’s future home!
Our goal for the entire campaign is to raise $176,000 to build Kelly’s home, and our specific goal for the gala was to raise $10,000 to cover the cost of the walls before the much-anticipated Wall Raising Day this spring. Thanks to you, we surpassed that goal!
For those who couldn’t attend, the gala was more than just a fundraiser — it was a moment to introduce Kelly and share her inspiring story.
Meet Kelly: The Heart of Our 2025 Women Build Initiative Kelly’s journey to homeownership is a testament to resilience and hope. As a single mother, she has worked tirelessly to provide stability for her family while balancing work and personal challenges. Her dream of owning a home has been fueled by a desire to give her children a safe and loving environment where they can grow and thrive.
During the gala, Kelly shared her story in a heartfelt video speech that filled the room with compassion for her cause. Her words reminded us all why the Women Build initiative is so vital: it’s about building more than homes — it’s about building futures. If you missed her touching speech, you can watch it here:
A Night to Remember- The evening was filled with meaningful moments: from the inspiring speeches and moving stories to the excitement of the live auction and chance drawings. Guests connected over delicious food and lively conversation, all while rallying behind the mission of Women Build. Check out more photos from the evening!
We extend our deepest gratitude to everyone who made this event possible. From our dedicated volunteers and staff to the incredible Women Build Committee, your passion and hard work shone through every detail of the night. A special thank you goes out to our Title Women Build Sponsors, Chris-Craft and Liberty Savings Bank, as well as our event sponsors:
• First Watch
• Nissan of Bradenton
• Ranch Capital
• Gamma Xi Boulé, an affiliate of Sigma Pi Phi Fraternity
• Bradenton Woman’s Club
And, of course, a heartfelt thank you to our ongoing sponsors: Bank OZK, Nancy McCabe, Bank of America, and Sunshine Metal Supply. Your continued support makes a lasting impact.
Keep the Momentum Going Though the gala has come to a close, our work is far from over. Every dollar raised goes directly toward building Kelly’s home, and we still have a journey ahead of us. With a total of $19,795 raised for Kelly’s home, our goal is to raise $176,000, and to do so, we need your continued support. If you missed the event but want to be part of Kelly’s story and the Women Build movement, there are still plenty of ways to get involved.