LIFESTYLE

Habitat for Humanity Walton County’s 6th Annual Hard Hats & High Heels Raises $16,000

The Destin Log

The 6th Annual Hard Hats & High Heels luncheon held at the Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa raised more than $16,000 to support the mission of Habitat for Humanity Walton County. 

The sold-out event brought together more than 200 women who enjoyed signature cocktails, games and prizes, Epic Photo Booth, and an awards ceremony along with an empowering keynote address and three-course meal.  

Tami Groth, center, was the guest speaker for the Hard Hats & High Heels event.

Made possible by presenting sponsor, The Merchants of Rosemary Beach, the inspirational luncheon kicked off the Spring Women Build Season, and provided funding for women’s build initiatives and building affordable housing in Walton County. 

“We’re grateful for our generous sponsors, donors, volunteers, and women that show up to support Habitat and our mission,” said Teresa Jones, executive director of Habitat for Humanity Walton County.  

“We were thrilled to have Tami Groth share her story and inspire others to make healthy life changes. Not only did we raise significant funds for our cause, but Tami’s message saved a life. Tami’s inspirational speech highlighting the warning signs of heart attack in women, inspired one of our attendees to take her stomach pain seriously and make a hospital visit only to discover she was having a heart attack. We are so grateful that Tami shared her story,” Jones said. 

This year’s keynote speaker was Tami Groth, president of Okaloosa County for Community Bank shared how her recent life-altering event paused her fast-paced lifestyle and illuminated the importance of self-care and slowing down. A 30-year female financial executive, community and civic leader in Okaloosa and Walton County, Groth has uplifted and brought success to many local businesses. 

Karah Young, center, was presented the 'Power Woman of the Year' award at the Hard Hats & High Heels event.

The funds raised will support the Women Build Initiative, which empowers women through education and training, allowing them to grow comfortable using power tools and working on a construction site. The donations will also be used to help build homes for well deserving families in Walton County. 

During the luncheon Habitat for Humanity presented its Power Women Awards, recognizing females in the community that have shared their time and talents to benefit deserving families. The 2024 Power Woman of the Year is Karah Young, president of the Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation. Through her leadership, DCWAF raised $3.5 million for children in need in Northwest Florida. DCWAF has provided more than $1.9 million to Walton County Habitat for Humanity over the last 12 years. The 2024 Glamour to the Hammer was awarded to Kim Crotwell for her dedication and volunteerism over the years. 

The Spring Women Build Season is underway and features a variety of events in which women can gain skills while raising funds for the Habitat for Humanity mission. The spring season concludes with power tool training on May 6 at the Walton County Habitat for Humanity ReStore. 

For more about Habitat for Humanity Walton County or to sign up for upcoming events and build days visit WaltonCountyHabitat.org. Email volunteer@waltoncountyhabitat.org to volunteer.