Q & A: Foundation Announces Impact Investment for Construction Trades Program

The Community Foundation is excited to announce a new five-year Impact Investment in partnership with the Huntington County Community School Corporation. Through this investment, the Foundation will collaborate with the Learning Center’s Construction Trades Program in the purchasing, renovating and selling of one local home each school year. 

“This collaboration is an exciting opportunity for the Huntington North Construction Trades program,” said Tiffanney Drummond, Huntington North Learning Center Principal. “It’s a testament to the Community Foundation’s commitment to the education of our future workforce. Our former students are already working within the construction field and choosing to live and work in Huntington. We look forward to continuing to watch this program grow.” 

This initiative will offer countless benefits for both local students and the overall community. The Foundation is proud to support a program that aligns with our mission of connecting people and resources to address local challenges and opportunities in Huntington County. Dive into the Q&A below to learn more!  

Q: What is an Impact Investment?  

A: An impact investment is a way for the Foundation to invest its funds in local projects that generate both financial return and measurable community benefit. Think of it as taking money that might normally be invested in Wall Street and putting it to work on Main Street right here in Huntington County. In this case, the investment supports innovative student learning experiences while also revitalizing local housing. 

Q: How was the Construction Trades Program selected for an impact investment?  

A: The initiative checked all the boxes for the Foundation’s impact investment program: it strengthens education and the workforce pipeline, benefits the local housing market and offers a realistic financial return. It was reviewed by the Foundation’s Impact Investment Committee and approved by both the Community Foundation and School Corporation’s Board of Trustees. 

Q: How will this initiative impact the youth of Huntington County?  

A: Students will gain hands-on experience while developing job skills, safety certifications and confidence from working on a real home from start to finish. This process goes beyond the traditional classroom, exposing students to a range of career paths from skilled trades to project management and real estate development. 

_{Photos of Construction Trades Program captured by Smiley Face Media}

Q: How will this initiative benefit the Huntington community overall?  

A: This effort will provide quality homes for local residents, increase nearby property values and revitalize neighborhoods. At the same time, it will prepare students for in-demand careers by giving them hands-on training in construction and renovation work. 

Q: Who oversees the selection and purchase of a house for renovation?  

A: The Foundation will oversee the purchase and legal ownership of the house, while the School Corporation helps identify properties that are a good fit for student learning and community impact. 

Q: What does the renovation project entail?  

A: Students will complete the bulk of the construction work with adult supervision including framing, drywall, electrical, flooring, painting and finishing work. While property purchasing and sales are currently managed by professionals, future program years may involve the students in these stages. Design and planning are also areas where student leadership could grow over time.  

Q: Who profits from the sale of the completed house?  

A: The Foundation will invest up to $150,000 over five years to fund the initial home purchases and renovations. After each home is sold, the Foundation is repaid for its costs (plus interest) which allows the funds to be reinvested in future program years. This repayment model helps the Construction Program move towards financial independence and long-term sustainability.  

Q: Does this use taxpayer dollars? 

A: No – the funding comes from the Community Foundation, not from property taxes or School Corporation funds. 

Q: What happens if the house sells for less than expected? 

A: The School Corporation is not responsible for making up any shortfall. The Foundation bears the financial risk, which is factored into the Foundation’s investment planning. 

Q: Will students be safe on the job site? 

A: Yes! All students will complete safety training (OSHA-10 or equivalent), and school staff will supervise all on-site work. The School Corporation also carries liability insurance and follows all legal and safety regulations. 

Q: What happens after the five-year period? 

A: The long-term goal is for the program to become financially self-sustaining. One future option may be a dedicated nonprofit that can provide program oversight. 

Q. Can others in the community support this project? 

A. Absolutely! The Foundation and School Corporation welcome community involvement. Local contractors, donors, neighbors and other partners could all play a role in supporting this initiative. If you are interested in getting involved, please reach out to the Foundation.  

“The Foundation is looking forward to this partnership and the tangible impact it will have on our community,” said Matt Ditzler, Community Foundation Executive Director. “This initiative is a strong example of how the Foundation can make strategic investments that create long-term value right here in Huntington County.” 

This promising Impact Investment was presented at the August Huntington County Community School Board Meeting. To watch the school board presentation, view the School Board Livestream. For more information or to inquire about getting involved in this initiative, contact the Community Foundation.