Fourteen years ago, HomeAid Houston, a charity of the Greater Houston Builders Association, hosted a small gathering of professional women in the building industry with a heart for the homeless at its inaugural HALO (HomeAid’s Amazing Ladies Organization) Luncheon. Over the years, this impactful event has welcomed over 3,000 women from varied professions as it continues to gain momentum.
This year on November 4 at the Westin Hotel Memorial City, a ballroom of more than 550 accomplished women joined forces to support HomeAid’s mission “to help people experiencing or at risk of homelessness build new lives through construction, community engagement, and education.”
HomeAid’s Executive Director Carole Brady said, “Celebrating our projects, non-profit partners and now to have everyone together for this wonderful event was just perfect. After hosting virtual luncheons for two years, it was amazing to share with the audience the many good works that their contributions have brought to our community.”
HALO luncheon underwriters were Edward & Brenda Martin Foundation, Perry Homes Foundation, and Toy Wood along with sponsors including 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty, PulteGroup, Westin Homes, GHBA Professional Women in Building, The Howard Hughes Corporation, Lennar Homes and Friendswood Development Company, Schwartz, Page & Harding, L.L.P. and Builder’s Choice. HomeAid also thanks Kendra Scott for providing a pop-up shop with 20% of proceeds benefitting HomeAid’s projects, and all of the guests who attended the HALO luncheon.
Three speakers from partner organizations Compassion United, Abigail’s Place, and Forgotten Angels shared their emotional experiences as they found their way home after navigating the unexpected path to homelessness.
HALO Chairperson, McCalle Fryar shared, “It’s always inspiring to host so many influential women from across the building industry for the annual HALO luncheon which supports the homeless/at-risk community in Houston. The theme, ‘Finding the Way Home’ was perfect for this luncheon, reflecting the spirit of hope and healing that HomeAid imparts in every project it builds.”