Building Stronger Communities, with Her
In the 21st century, we’re living in a world where the internet has transformed the way we communicate, digital media continues to thrive, and AI is reshaping industries before our very eyes. It’s a time when women’s empowerment is more vital than ever. With ongoing challenges, the future of women’s rights in the workforce remains uncertain, especially in fields like construction. Once considered a male-dominated industry, construction is gradually becoming more inclusive, offering new opportunities for women to break through.
In 2023, the National Association of Home Builders reported that the number of women in construction reached an all-time high. This momentum is something we must continue to build on. It’s about pushing the limits of what women can achieve in traditionally male-dominated industries and setting higher standards for what women deserve in the workforce.
At Habitat Charlotte Region, we’re not just building single homes – we’re creating thriving, equitable communities. Since 1983, we’ve empowered over 5,000 families across Mecklenburg, Iredell, and Gaston counties by addressing the challenges of affordable homeownership, critical home repairs, and fair housing policies. Our work goes beyond constructing houses; it’s about fostering financial literacy, promoting intergenerational wealth, and building neighborhoods where families can thrive. With a female CEO and President, a female Vice President of Construction Operations, a female Director of Land Acquisition, and a female long-time volunteer and now Board Member, our organization isn’t just participating in the movement for women’s empowerment – we’re driving it.
Laura Belcher, our CEO and President’s journey reflects the core mission of Habitat: building more than just homes, but strong, resilient communities. Drawn to Habitat’s mission through church volunteer work, she’s motivated by the ever-growing need for affordable housing. With her leadership, Habitat’s focus has expanded to not only providing homes but advocating for policies that foster financial independence and long-term community strength. She believes in the power of action and confidence in leadership, often overcoming challenges with persistence and clear results. She lives by the mantra: “Don’t let perfect be the enemy of good” and “Fail fast, learn fast,” encouraging continual progress even when the path is uncertain.
Mel Ressler, Vice President of Construction Operations at Habitat Charlotte Region, has spent over 25 years in the field, driven by a passion for building and community. Starting with hands-on renovations with her mother, she has turned challenges as a woman in construction into opportunities for growth, inspiring others through her leadership. Reflecting on her journey, Mel shares, “It took patience, composure, and self-confidence for me to communicate effectively with those who doubted my abilities.” For Mel, the most rewarding moments come from seeing the impact on the families Habitat serves, and she encourages women to take on challenging roles and mentor others.
Jennifer Morell, Director of Land Acquisition at Habitat Charlotte Region, brings expertise in real estate development focused on affordable housing and community engagement. With a background in community planning and GIS, she’s worked in municipal government, healthcare real estate, and affordable homeownership. Despite challenges in being heard in a male-dominated field, Jennifer has earned trust through clear communication and collaboration. She emphasizes that women’s perspectives are vital in construction, noting, “Women bring additional perspectives to the table.” One of her most memorable experiences was participating with the land acquisition and development team as they led the efforts to install a community garden and playground at the Meadows at Plato Price, highlighting the power of teamwork and community involvement. Like Laura, “Don’t let the perfect be the enemy of the good,” Jennifer advises, encouraging progress even in uncertain situations.
Brooke Harper, a long-time volunteer and now Board Member, has supported Habitat for over 30 years. Her work to reduce barriers to homeownership and provide affordable housing has been fueled by the resilience of the families she serves. Through her volunteerism and leadership, she emphasizes the strength of diverse perspectives working together, and her advice to other women is simple: “Abandon all notions of what you cannot do.”
At Habitat Charlotte Region, we’re proud of the women who serve as site supervisors, AmeriCorps members, volunteers, and in other leadership roles. These women are not only setting new benchmarks for success in the construction and nonprofit sectors but also building hope and strength in every community we serve or build. By creating opportunities for homeownership, fostering financial independence, and promoting community engagement, we continue to strengthen and uplift neighborhoods throughout the region.
To get involved consider donating, volunteering, or being a Habitat Charlotte Region advocate where your voice can make a difference!