Every strong structure begins with a solid foundation.
The same is true for our association, our industry, and our communities.
As I reflect on everything we have accomplished over the past month, I am reminded that the strength of our association comes from members who step forward and get involved. Through leadership, advocacy, volunteerism, sponsorship, and mentorship, your commitment continues to move our industry and community forward.
Over the past several weeks, we have celebrated growth, honored leadership, strengthened partnerships, advocated for our industry, and served our community. While each event had a different purpose, they all shared a common thread: members choosing to get involved.
We saw that spirit during the City Bus Tour and Civic Celebration Night as members learned about the future of the Sioux Empire and recognized leaders who have shaped our community. We also had the privilege of thanking Mayor Paul TenHaken for his years of service during a period of tremendous growth and opportunity for Sioux Falls. His leadership reminds us that strong communities are built through collaboration, vision, and partnership.
We saw it again through our advocacy efforts as HBASE delegates traveled to Washington, D.C., to represent our members and advocate for housing affordability, workforce development, and responsible growth. Those conversations matter because decisions made today will help determine whether future generations can achieve the dream of homeownership tomorrow.
But advocacy does not begin in Washington. It begins right here at home.
That is why the Sioux Empire Friends for Affordable Housing (SEFAH) PAC is so important. As a local PAC, SEFAH helps ensure housing remains part of the conversation and provides opportunities for our industry to engage with community leaders on issues that impact our communities.
I am especially excited about the first annual Driving Advocacy: Nine & Dine event, creating a new opportunity for members to support local advocacy efforts while connecting with fellow industry professionals and community leaders.
When our members engage, our industry is stronger. And when our industry speaks with one voice, we are better positioned to help shape conversations that impact the future of housing in the Sioux Empire.
That same commitment can be seen in the Freedom to Build conversation taking place across our industry. Homeownership has long been the foundation of the American Dream but achieving that dream is becoming increasingly difficult for many families. As industry professionals, we all have a role to play in supporting policies and solutions that help keep housing attainable for the next generation.
We also saw the heart of our industry through Repair Affair, the relationships strengthened at the Golf Classic, and the continued work of the Home Builders Care Foundation and Building Dreams. Together, these efforts create opportunities, strengthen our industry, and make a lasting difference throughout the Sioux Empire.
What inspires me most is what these efforts represent together: an association filled with people who care, volunteer, lead, advocate, give back, and understand that our industry’s success is built on what we achieve together.
As we look ahead, I encourage every member to find a way to get involved. Join a committee. Attend an event. Volunteer. Participate in Building Dreams. Support the SEFAH PAC. Mentor a student. Help us welcome new members. Share your expertise.
You do not need to do everything, but everyone can do something.
Thank you for your membership, leadership, and commitment to our industry and community. Together, we will continue building relationships, creating opportunities, strengthening communities, and shaping the future of the Sioux Empire.
Honoring Our Foundation. Building Forward.
Craig Wynia
President, Home Builders Association of the Sioux Empire
