Orange County Branch Newsletter

June 2018

ASCE OC Younger Members Forum

Corazon House Build


By Triet Dang

On Saturday, May 5th, a group of OC Branch and YMF members met in Chula Vista, CA to join with the Corazon organization for the House Building Volunteer event in Tijuana, Mexico. Corazon is a non-profit organization that develops communities in Mexico by building homes and encouraging support within the community.

From Chula Vista, volunteers were driven across the border by the Corazon’s caravan to Tijuana, Mexico. The group arrived at the construction site located about 30 minutes’ drive from the border. The main objective of the day was to build a complete house from the foundation up, which included wall and roof installation, paint the structures’ exterior and interior.  After a safety moment by the lead builder Bob Posert, volunteers were divided into different groups based on the tasks they were doing. Most of the volunteers had minimal to no construction experience and had to learn on the spot. A hearty lunch was provided by the local community. After lunch, volunteers returned to work with the goal of completing the house before the day’s end. Around 4 PM, the house was completed, followed by the key ceremony when the group leader presented the key to the future homeowner.

This trip was the first for many volunteers and most of them stated that they thoroughly enjoyed their experiences. Many stated that they were eager to go on another build. They enjoyed the construction activities while also helping families in need. 

See the Full Album here: https://photos.app.goo.gl/JNFfY9C8a1usXgAf1