From Disaster Relief to Challenging Gas Bans, HBAs are Making a Difference

State and local home builders associations (HBAs) continue to tackle industry challenges and strive to make housing attainable in their communities. In recognition of their efforts, 22 HBAs received Association Excellence Awards (AEAs) for outstanding contributions they made on behalf of their members and communities in 2024. The HBAs will be acknowledged during the Association Management Conference in Atlanta in August.  

“I’m continually impressed by the creativity, impact and member focus shown by this year’s AEA winners,” said Mike Erdmann, HBA of Marion & Polk Counties CEO and NAHB Executive Officers Council President. “These awards highlight what’s possible when local and state associations stay grounded in their mission, respond to real-world challenges and keep delivering value where it counts.”  

NAHB received nearly 100 AEA submissions in the following categories: communications, education, government affairs, operations, membership and revenue. Here’s a snapshot of a few of this year’s winners. 

Rebuilding after a Natural Disaster

Following the devastation of Hurricane Helene in September 2024, the BA of the Blue Ridge Mountains (Asheville, N.C.) quickly mobilized home builders and shared vital information with residents in western North Carolina. Their efforts ranged from public education campaigns delivered via radio – the only form of communication available after the storm – to building long-term partnerships with other organizations serving the area. 

Protecting Energy Choices

The BIA of Washington (Tumwater, Wash.) made state history in 2024 when it collected a record-breaking 540,000 signatures calling for the state to lift its natural gas ban. The ballot initiative is now being challenged in the state Supreme Court, yet it remains a powerful example of the impact HBAs can have on housing. 

Constructing a Community Home

The Housing & Building Association of Colorado Springs and its members teamed up with community groups and businesses to provide free housing for families of patients at nearby medical facilities. The Woody & Millie Ingram Guest House, which features 25 furnished suites and has space for an additional 16 future suites, was made possible through donated materials, labor and funds. 

These are a few of the HBAs recognized alongside many other outstanding HBA achievements with Association of Excellence Awards. Learn more about the winners and the AEA program.