Community in Action: Building Trades Network Partners with Mercy House

From All BTN Members

At Building Trades Network (BTN), we believe businesses thrive best when they’re symbiotic, working together for mutual benefit. This is true more than ever in construction trades. Our network of design and building professionals, as well as hands-on craftsmen, exemplifies this philosophy by fostering real-world advantages for our members and the communities we serve. One of the ways we live out this mission is through our annual “Community in Action” projects, which leverage our collective skills to make a positive impact.

In May /June 2024, BTN collaborated with Mercy House, a nonprofit dedicated to ending homelessness. Our partnership is spearheaded by BTN member Johnny Bryant of ASL Electric, who also serves on the Mercy House Board, and BTN President Paul McKelvey, owner of Paul McKelvey Construction. Their leadership brought together BTN members for a project that would not only enhance the Mercy House facilities but also support their mission to house and feed families in need.

BTN has been dedicated to community service for 14 years, consistently undertaking multiple volunteer projects annually. This most recent endeavor with Mercy House was among our largest. Over the past few weeks, BTN members with expertise in electrical, plumbing, carpentry, general contracting, and painting have been hard at work on this meaningful project.

Our task was to replace an old, dilapidated wooden fence with a new, durable vinyl one. We also constructed fence enclosures for trash cans, significantly improving the property’s appearance and functionality. But this project went far beyond mere physical improvements.

By providing our time and skills, we enabled Mercy House to allocate their funds towards more critical needs. The resources saved on this project are enough to house a family for a year or provide meals for hundreds throughout the same period. This is the true essence of our work: using our talents not just to build structures, but to build a better world for those less fortunate

On-site this week, BTN members brought a diverse range of skills to see the project through. Electricians, plumbers, carpenters, general contractors, and painters all contributed their expertise, embodying our belief that giving back isn’t just about donating money—it’s about donating time and talent.

The “Community in Action” project is a testament to what can be achieved when businesses and nonprofits come together with a shared goal. For BTN, it’s about more than construction; it’s about creating lasting, positive changes in our community, and continuing to grow and develop the trust and camaraderie within the BTN organization. Each nail hammered, each brushstroke painted, and each fence panel installed represents our commitment to making the world a better place.

We are proud of the work we’ve done with Mercy House, and we look forward to continuing our tradition of service in the years to come. By leveraging our skills and working together, we can continue to make a real difference in the lives of those who need it most.
Join us in our mission. Together, we can build a brighter future for everyone.

For more information about Building Trades Network and our community projects, visit our website or follow us on social media. Let’s build something great together!