Bob Calwhite of the Pacific Northwest Carpenters Institute spent several hours in “jail” Nov. 13 as part of a fundraiser for Constructing Hope, a non-profit pre-apprenticeship program that prepares minorities, people coming from incarceration, and low-income individuals for careers in the construction industry.
Students get hands-on training, required certifications, and real-life work experiences that equip them to enter the trades ready to work. The organization is supported by Laborers Local 296, IBEW Local 48, Carpenters Local 146, and the Carpenters training center.
The fundraiser involved construction industry partners being held in lock-down until they could raise “bail” by securing donations.
“We had a great response, raising approximately $18,000 from over 100 donors in just a few hours,” said Executive Director Patricia Daniels.
“There are a few more donations pending and we’re still encouraging others to help us meet our $25,000 goal.”
Constructing Hope is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that relies on community support to achieve its mission. Donations can be made online or by mail at 405 NE Church Street, Portland, OR 97211. For more information, contact Daniels at 503-281-1234.
