The “Tool Box” program by Girls Inc. in Sioux City offers girls a unique and empowering experience

The “Tool Box” program by Girls Inc. in Sioux City offers girls aged 11 and up a unique and empowering experience: learning how to build homes from the ground up. This innovative program teaches them essential construction skills, including everything from installing walls to plumbing, electrical work, and painting. All of this is made possible thanks to the support of local contractors and a generous grant from the “Master Builders of Iowa.”

The girls not only acquire theoretical knowledge but also get hands-on experience by building fully functional homes. These houses feature interior electricity, an exterior light activated by motion, and even a sink with running water. The experience is truly practical, allowing them to develop technical skills that, in other contexts, might be carried out by professionals instead.

Anna Disterhaupt, one of the enthusiastic participants in the project, shared her excitement: “We can really be hands-on… and I like building. We get to learn how to put up walls, hammer nails, and use screws, and they actually let us do it ourselves. It’s a different experience from what we’re used to, where usually others would do it for us.”

Mandy Engel-Cartie, executive director of Girls Inc. in Sioux City, explained the vision behind this initiative. According to Engel-Cartie, involving girls in these projects not only provides them with practical skills but also encourages them to stay engaged in high school. Additionally, she highlights the importance of offering viable alternatives for those who may not plan to attend college. “This is a wonderful career,” Engel-Cartie stated. “It’s well-paying and can help them support themselves and their families in the future, allowing them to become independent women as adults.”

The “Tool Box” program not only provides girls with valuable construction knowledge but also allows them to envision a future where they can choose a well-paid career and develop a confidence in themselves that will serve them in any path they decide to take.