On Sunday, Dec. 20 at IBEW Local 134, construction companies F.H. Paschen and Turner Construction Company will hand out 100 meals to Chicago Public Schools (CPS) Chicago Builds students and their families.
“We are so excited to welcome the Chicago Builds students and their families at the Budding Builders Dinner,” F.H. Paschen vice-president Mary Person said in a statement. “These students are the next generation of construction professionals; we’re really looking forward to meeting them and their families.”
Chicago Builds is a citywide, two-year off-campus training program for CPS junior and seniors interested in pursuing a career in construction after graduating high school.
Chicago Builds campus manager Isaac Carter emphasized the true team effort it took to pull the event together.
“It is critical to the program’s sustainability to secure and have active participation and support from industry partners,” he said. “We are thrilled to have this opportunity with F.H. Paschen and Turner to provide our students and their families with a special token of support to lift their spirits during these unprecedented times.”
“This year has been such a challenging year for everyone. Though these are not the best circumstances, Turner Construction wanted to do our part and help the students and families of the Chicago Builds Program,” says Rick Blair, vice-president, general m`anager of Turner Construction.
The meals will be provided by three local businesses near the Chicago Builds campus at 3000 S. King Dr. Catering the dinner will Dirty Bird Southern Kitchen and Premier Melon & Express. Desserts will be catered by Shake Them Cakes.
“The year 2020 has been one of the most emotionally draining years for all of us. I’m truly grateful to be a small part of this hot food drive that’s being provided by F.H. Paschen and Turner Construction. They’re definitely showing the term ‘I am my brother’s keeper’ still exists,” says Dirty Birds chef/owner James Sanders.
“Many students aren’t aware of available career opportunities in construction or how lucrative they can be.” With the goal of one day hiring these students, F.H. Paschen vice-president Charles Johnson reiterates the importance of early intervention and engagement with students interested in construction. “We are committed to developing the next generation of construction professionals, events like these allow us to introduce ourselves and make those initial connections.”
Students and their families will also be formally invited to a virtual meet-and-greet with the F.H. Paschen executives following the Holiday season.
