In 2000, Ann Simms was inspired to ask Habitat for Humanity of Greater Dayton to start a Women Build program after volunteering on a similar project during a trip to Florida. Ever since, Ann and her family have supported Dayton Habitat by volunteering, through leadership, and by donating. However, Ann's passion continued to be the Women Build projects and eight homes were built through her efforts. After Ann's passing in 2019, Habitat for Humanity of Greater Dayton decided to rename it's Women Build projects the Ann Simms Memorial Women Build to honor Ann Simms and the impact her vision and efforts have had on our community.
To mark the occasion, Dayton Habitat Created a portrait of Charles and Ann dancing at one of the Dayton Habitat annual galas. The image was assembled from thousands of photos taken during past Dayton Women Build projects and was presented to Charles and his family by Habitat for Humanity of Greater Dayton's Norm Miozzi and Dave Mauch.
The Simms family also had a surprise of their own. After the Dayton habitat team made their presentation, Charles Simms announced that he and his family would be a financial sponsor for 2021's Ann Simms Memorial Women BuildĀ and for future builds as well.
Thank you to Charles Simms and your family for your continued and generous support of Habitat for Humanity of Greater Dayton.