About Tiny Homes Project

In June 2024, the Dennehotso Chapter expanded its housing initiatives beyond the initial purchase of eight ARPA-funded modular homes after identifying a continued need within the community. Utilizing a combination of Utah trust fund donations and grants from Freeport and Morgan, the Chapter launched a “Tiny Home” project centered on sustainable upcycling. Student youth workers and PEP supervisors disassembled a derelict double-wide trailer that had remained on the property for over 15 years, salvaging high-quality lumber such as $2 \times 4$s and $2 \times 6$s to construct a new dwelling. To ensure structural integrity, the team halved the original flooring and reinforced the unit by welding metal posts to the frame.

This construction project served as a vital educational platform, providing local youth and workforce participants with hands-on experience in measurements and tool usage. Beyond technical training, the initiative fostered essential soft skills, including teamwork, active listening, and effective communication. By working collaboratively to solve building challenges, the students gained self-confidence and professional trust, effectively turning the construction site into a classroom that prepared them for future career success while addressing the community’s housing shortage.