Melissa Padilla, who has been a longtime Habitat for Humanity Tucson volunteer, has joined Habitat Tucson through the DoD Skillbridge program through Davis Monthan Airforce Base DMAFB.
Melissa has joined the construction crew and is working with us until mid-May 2021. The DoD SkillBridge program is an opportunity for Service members to gain valuable civilian work experience through specific industry training, apprenticeships, or internships during the last 180 days of service. SkillBridge connects Service members with industry partners in real-world job experiences.
We are excited Melissa chose Habitat for Humanity Tucson and we are excited to be a part of this program. Melissa is working at the construction site supervising contractors and volunteers — working alongside families building their future homes.
Melissa said she was especially happy to be able to work with Habitat for Humanity’s Veterans Build program which builds affordable housing alongside Veterans. Melissa was able to supervise volunteers and assist in completing the 924 square foot home construction with a US Army Veteran in 2021.
For Service members, SkillBridge provides an invaluable chance to work and learn in civilian career areas. For industry partners, SkillBridge is an opportunity to access and leverage the world’s most highly trained and motivated workforce at no cost. Service members participating in SkillBridge receive their military compensation and benefits, and industry partners provide the training and work experience.
Melissa has been volunteering with Habitat Tucson since 2019. As a volunteer, she was an amazing and willing soul ready to work. Now that she has been with us a participant in the SkillBridge Program she has helped double our impact even more and we have been blessed to have her as part of the team. What a fantastic program that brings in fantastic people!”
~Gina Hansen, Habitat for Humanity Tucson
