The Arizona Builders Alliance (ABA) is once again proving that construction is about more than buildings - it's about creating spaces that strengthen communities. This year, the state's leading construction industry association has selected Phoenix nonprofit OCJ Kids as the recipient of its annual Community Service Project, bringing together skilled tradespeople, donated materials and volunteer labor to renovate key areas of the organization's new community impact center.
Developed in partnership with City Church Phoenix, the facility serves Arizona's foster and at-risk youth. Renovations are already underway and are expected to be completed by fall 2026. Leading the effort is the ABA's Leadership Development Forum (LDF), one of the organization's flagship professional development programs. Each year, participants in the program select a local nonprofit and coordinate a pro-bono construction project, allowing emerging industry leaders to apply their skills while making a lasting difference in the community.
This year's project focuses on creating two purpose-driven spaces that will directly benefit the children, families and professionals who rely on OCJ Kids' services. A new Calm Down Room will offer foster youth, Department of Child Safety caseworkers and group home staff a dedicated place to decompress, recharge and practice self-regulation. The second space, known as the Dignity Room, is designed specifically for teenage girls in foster care and will include dressing areas and resources that promote confidence, identity and personal development.
"Foster youth face some of the most difficult challenges imaginable, and the spaces where they receive support matter," said Kim Davids, President and CEO of Arizona Builders Alliance. "Our members are not just building rooms, they are building environments where young people can feel safe, seen, and empowered. This is the power of the construction industry at its best, and we are proud to put it to work for Arizona's most vulnerable kids."
OCJ Kids has long been dedicated to changing the culture of foster care in Arizona by creating opportunities, building community and advocating for foster and at-risk children. Leaders say the renovations will help expand the nonprofit's impact while providing young people with spaces that reinforce their value and potential.
"The Arizona Builders Alliance is transforming spaces that will directly change the lives of youth in our care," said Gary Webb, President & Founder of OCJ Kids. "Foster children deserve environments that reflect their worth and dignity. These renovations will allow us to expand our programs and serve more kids who need us most. We are deeply grateful for the ABA's commitment and the generosity of their members."
The renovation effort includes demolition, electrical work and finish work completed by ABA member companies, many of which have already donated materials, labor and volunteer hours. The association is continuing to seek additional community support through donations of supplies, skilled labor and financial contributions, with hopes of expanding renovations to other areas of the facility after the initial project is complete. Learn more at Arizona Builders Alliance.
