Habitat for Humanity celebrates women's contributions in Owensboro

The Owensboro‑Daviess County Habitat for Humanity chapter gathered about 30 women Friday to mark International Women's Day and recognize long-time leader Virginia Braswell, who oversaw roughly 150 houses during her tenure.

The Owensboro‑Daviess County chapter of Habitat for Humanity held a gathering Friday to mark International Women's Day and to honor women who have supported the nonprofit. About 30 women met at the chapter facility to be photographed together and to acknowledge both past and present contributions. The chapter was started by women, and leaders noted ongoing efforts to include women in construction roles and leadership. Virginia Braswell, who led the chapter for nearly three decades and retired in 2022, was singled out for her long service. Event details: - The gathering took place at the chapter facility at 2930 W. 4th St. and included leaders, staff, volunteers, homeowners and applicants. - Amanda Green, the chapter executive director, said the photo was intended to capture a historical record of women’s involvement from the chapter’s founding to the present. - Virginia Braswell served as executive director for nearly 30 years and is reported to have overseen construction of about 150 houses during her tenure. She retired in 2022. - Volunteers described an increase in women participating in builds and noted that on-site foremen have been welcoming and teaching new skills to women volunteers. - A new board member, Sarah Barnes, noted the chapter’s role in supporting single-parent homeowners and in setting examples for future homeowners. Summary: The event highlighted long-term leadership and growing participation by women in Owensboro‑Daviess County Habitat for Humanity work. The chapter plans to showcase women’s contributions through March as part of Women’s History Month and kept the group photograph as part of that recognition. Undetermined at this time.