For some women, Mother’s Day weekend is about brunches and flowers. But for others, swinging a hammer in the name of helping neighbors in need is just the ticket.
On May 7, the Merrimack Valley Habitat for Humanity will recognize National Women Build Week by welcoming an all-female force of volunteers at construction sites throughout Lawrence.
“This is our fourth year doing it,’’ said Sharon Mason, director of development for the regional Habitat affiliate. “Last year we had 80 to 100 women respond, and we ended up holding the event once a week for the rest of the year.’’
No experience is necessary to participate. Volunteers will be offered free training at the Lowe’s store in Salem, N.H., on Saturday.
The main focus of this year’s effort will be the former St. Patrick Convent on Parker Street, which is being converted into affordable housing for 10 families. The next step is to add interior framing to the brick structure.
Mason said that while tools will be in full swing on May 7, more will be built that day than meets the eye.
“These women come from all walks of life, from every neighborhood, and all of a sudden everyone has an opportunity to work together to find their way through uncharted territory,’’ she said. “They are building a community in a way that has nothing to do with a street address.’’
To volunteer for the Merrimack Valley Habitat for Humanity Women Build event or for more information, call 978-681-8858 or visit www.merrimackvalleyhabitat.org.
Karen Sackowitz 
