Community Foundation of Monroe County Partners with Home Builders Association to Support Construction and Design Education
We are proud to announce a new partnership with the Home Builders Association (HBA) of Monroe County to establish two endowed funds that will provide lasting educational opportunities for local students and aspiring builders. As the HBA prepares for dissolution after 56 years of service, these funds will continue its mission of supporting Monroe County residents interested in construction and design.
Empowering Future Builders: Two New Endowed Funds
The Home Builders Association of Monroe County Endowed Scholarship Fund will provide scholarships for Monroe County residents who are high school graduates (or equivalent) enrolling in any accredited post-secondary institution, including colleges, universities, and trade schools. This scholarship is available for traditional students entering school directly after graduation and non-traditional students returning to school later in life, attending part-time, or seeking a second career.
For over 44 years, the Robert L. Polk and John D. Kohler Annual Student Design Competition has inspired Monroe County students in grades 7-12 to develop creativity and technical skills in design. Now, thanks to the Home Builders Association of Monroe County Endowed Fund, this beloved competition will continue for generations. Open to students of all backgrounds—whether or not they have formal coursework in art, drafting, or drawing—the competition fosters a passion for design and innovation.
A Legacy That Lives On
Mark Kohler of Kohler Architecture reflects on this milestone, stating:
“We are saddened by the end of an era, but deeply grateful that the HBA has extended their vision of inspiring youth interest in construction. Thanks to this legacy gift, the Student Design Competition will continue to nurture the development of young talent in the construction industry for many years to come.”
Since its founding in 1969, the Home Builders Association of Monroe County has played a pivotal role in shaping the local building industry. Over the years, it has championed housing policies, supported industry professionals, and contributed to community enrichment. Through its dedication to education, consumer advocacy, and charitable initiatives, the HBA has made a lasting impact.
As the HBA nears its final chapter, its leadership is committed to ensuring that its mission continues:
“It’s important to us to see that the funds that the Home Builders Association of Monroe County has worked for and saved for 56 years stay in the community that gave us our living.” – Bill Kipf, Home Builders Association of Monroe
How to Get Involved
The legacy of the HBA lives on through these funds, ensuring that students passionate about construction and design have the support they need to succeed.
- For more information on the Robert L. Polk and John D. Kohler Annual Student Design Competition, visit Kohler Architecture.
- To learn more about these funds and apply for scholarships, visit cfmonroe.org/students.
By partnering with the Community Foundation of Monroe County, the HBA ensures that its commitment to the future of the building industry in Monroe County remains strong. We are honored to carry forward this legacy and invest in the next generation of builders and designers.