The New River Valley Home Builders Association (NRVHBA) organized its 11th annual Touch-A-Truck NRV event on Saturday, August 15th from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Uptown Christiansburg. 

The NRVHBA strives to spread awareness about careers in construction through events and workforce development. Through the annual Touch-A-Truck NRV, families had the opportunity to connect with local businesses and organizations who are a part of the construction, emergency service, transportation, and public works industries in the NRV, while raising funds to support programs that impact students. 

With over 65 businesses and organizations present and 3,400 community members in attendance, it was without a doubt the largest year yet for this event. Bringing in over 80 vehicles, children had the opportunity to explore construction machinery, emergency vehicles, and more. Through activities such as birdhouse building, a digging zone, and Touch-A-Trade hands-on experiences, children had access to activities that examined different construction careers. 

In partnership with Setter Construction, a food drive was launched this year, totaling over 2,000 pounds of food, enough to feed over 30 families. All food donated was distributed by Feeding Southwest Virginia to families in need in the NRV. Over $8,000 was raised from the event for the Building Futures Foundation, the new charitable arm of the NRVHBA. Impact in the New River Valley consists of workforce development initiatives, including scholarships for students pursuing careers in the construction industry, and classroom grants that introduce local youth to the skilled trades.

Learn more about the Building Futures Foundation at www.buildingfuturesnrv.org