Organization states it has ‘led the way’ in a dual-purpose model that tackles both the affordable housing crisis and the skilled labor shortage.
NEWS RELEASE
COMMUNITY BUILDERS
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Community Builders, the top construction-focused social enterprise in northern and central Ontario, is celebrating 10 years of impactful growth on Sept. 17, 2026.
What started in 2016 as an ambitious project in Barrie has evolved into a prominent regional leader with operations now reaching Simcoe County, Greater Sudbury, District of Muskoka, and Sault Ste. Marie.
Over the past decade, the organization has been at the forefront of a dual-purpose approach that addresses both affordable housing issues and the shortage of skilled workers, providing excellent construction while also offering life-changing workforce training.
As Community Builders steps into its second decade, it aims to enhance this impact even more by utilizing innovative building techniques and expanding community collaborations to create sustainable homes and brighter futures.
“I’m proud to announce that this Sept. 17 marks our 10th anniversary at Community Builders. When we launched our social enterprise construction company all those years ago, I never imagined it would grow into something so impactful,” said Brandon Day, co-founder and CEO. “We didn’t do this alone; we grew thanks to support from our broader community – government entities, social service organizations, corporate sponsors, construction partners, and private individuals – who recognized how valuable our work is and understood how our social enterprise model can transform lives through essential skilled trades training.”
Doug Downey, MPP for Barrie-Springwater-Oro-Medonte extends his congratulations.
“For ten years now, Community Builders has been making a real difference in our community by creating opportunities, strengthening neighborhoods and helping people forge better futures. This milestone reflects the commitment of their entire team along with countless partners and supporters who have helped them succeed. Congratulations on a decade of positive impact; I wish Community Builders continued success moving forward,” he stated.
“Ten years is quite an achievement and speaks volumes about the vital work Community Builders has done within our community,” added Barrie Mayor Alex Nuttall. “On behalf of the City of Barrie, congratulations on ten successful years and thank you for your ongoing positive influence.”
10 Years of Impact Event
Community Builders invites everyone to join their “10 Years of Impact” Celebration open house for current supporters as well as anyone interested in learning about their work.
What: Open House, Tours, Displays
When: Thursday, Sept. 17 2026 – 3 p. m. to 6 p. m., speeches begin at 4 p. m.
Where: Community Builders, 1148 Snow Valley Rd., Minesing
The Impact of Community Builders Since Inception
Community Builders has plenty to celebrate over its ten years:
Community Builders has successfully completed $32.3 million worth of construction projects since they began; with 78% focused on affordable and social housing. They’ve renovated over 733 housing units while constructing more than 164 new affordable units across more than twenty communities throughout Ontario. Over 464 trainees have finished their paid twelve-week training programs. This year saw an impressive ninety-five percent achieving stable jobs within three to six months after graduation. In just the past year alone, program trainees represented a diverse mix often underrepresented in construction: fifty-four percent youth; twenty-eight percent visible minorities; twenty-five percent women; nineteen percent BIPOC; sixteen percent newcomers to Canada; thirteen percent Indigenous individuals; and eight percent identifying as part of the LGBTQ+ community.
“Last year we concentrated on expanding into Muskoka and Sault Ste. Marie,” said Carly Gasparini , Executive Director at Community Builders. “With both our construction services running smoothly along with active training programs , we’re entering this next chapter ready to further enhance our impact-providing more affordable housing options while empowering even more graduates towards reaching their full potential.”
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