Michael English House & Skilled Purpose Program
At the February Dinner Meeting, Vincent English introduced Skilled Purpose, a new nonprofit training program tackling Cape Cod’s skilled labor shortage. With 264 unfilled carpenter positions annually and no local training programs, the Michael English House, Inc. is bridging the gap with a 12-week carpentry program designed for individuals in recovery and those reentering society post-incarceration.
Skilled Purpose is creating a new talent pipeline—and they need your help. HBRACC members can support by hiring graduates, offering apprenticeships, donating materials, or sponsoring training sessions.
In partnership with the Barnstable County Sheriff’s Office, they are strengthening workforce development and reentry efforts, proving the power of vocational training in reducing recidivism.
Stay tuned for details on an upcoming Friendsraiser event (date TBD) to learn more. In the meantime, contact Vincent English at vincentenglish@skilledpurpose.org to get involved.
Habitat Cape Cod’s Deconstruction Program
Looking to remodel your kitchen or upgrade appliances? Habitat for Humanity of Cape Cod offers a Deconstruction Program that helps homeowners, contractors, and tradespeople save on labor and disposal costs. Trained and insured volunteers will carefully remove reusable cabinets, appliances, and other items-at no cost if the items can be resold. These materials are then…
In Memory of Arthur Craig Lohr
HBRACC mourns the passing of Arthur Craig Lohr, a dedicated early member of our association. Craig was a true leader in the Cape Cod building community, known for his integrity, craftsmanship, and service. As the longtime owner of Craig Lohr Construction, he helped shape the industry on Cape Cod and supported countless professionals through mentorship…
The 9th Annual Charter Cup Fishing Tournament
Mark your calendars! The 9th Annual Charter Cup Fishing Tournament returns on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, at Baxter’s Fish ‘N Chips in Hyannis. Since 2017, this incredible event has raised over $2.2 million for local charities-demonstrating the power of community and generosity here on Cape Cod. This year, 100% of all proceeds will support a…
MAKERS MARKET
Discover Unique Finds from Local Makers and Fun with Chefs in the KAM Showroom! WHEN: May 3, 11am – 2pm KAM Appliances’ Hyannis Showroom 6 Aggregate Way (across from BJ’s) Sample & shop delicious creations from local food makers & stop by the KAM showroom for a live cooking event. Our own Chef Linda, Chef…
The Housing Affordability Crisis: A Call to Action for Cape Cod Builders
The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) recently released its 2025 Housing Affordability Pyramid, revealing a concerning trend: 76.4 million U.S. households-57% of the total-cannot afford a $300,000 home. With the median price of a new single-family home at $459,826, approximately 100.6 million households (nearly 75%) are priced out of the market. This affordability crisis…
Make Your Voice Heard on Building Codes at Upcoming Hearings
The International Code Council is in the midst of its 2024-2026 development cycle, and the upcoming Group B Committee Action Hearings (April 27-May 6 in Orlando, FL) offer an important opportunity for builders, remodelers, and industry professionals to have a voice in the process. Some of the key proposals up for review could significantly impact…
Tariff Update: Canadian Lumber Exempt from New U.S. Tariffs—A Win for Builders
On April 2, President Trump announced a new global tariff policy imposing a 10% baseline tariff on imports from most countries, with elevated rates up to 50% for certain nations. Notably, Canada and Mexico are exempt from these new tariffs, a significant relief for the U.S. homebuilding industry. Canada supplies approximately 85% of U.S. softwood…
At Home Media Kit 2025
Discover At Home Magazine Cape Cod: Your Ultimate Guide to Home Building, Remodeling, and Improvement Decisions At Home Magazine Cape Cod offers valuable insights and inspiration for your dream home or upcoming remodel. Published biannually, our magazine reaches a wide audience across Cape Cod, with 11,000 units distributed per issue. Distribution: Spring/Summer and Fall/Winter issues…
Tariffs
The past six weeks have been a roller coaster regarding tariffs. As of today, no new tariffs have been imposed on Canadian lumber. However, April 2nd is a key date when a potential 25% increase could take effect. Twice this year, tariffs were implemented only to be removed shortly after. Other materials are experiencing price…
New Energy Code in Effect
New energy code went into effect Feb 14th. Big Changes Coming to the Stretch & Specialized Energy Codes! The Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources (DOER) has proposed updates to the Stretch and Specialized Energy Codes based on feedback from the past year and a half. Key changes for residential construction include new HERS credit…