“I turn to YouTube often when I want to learn how to do things around my space, but having experienced instructors give me hands-on training has been so much better than watching endless tutorials. As a prospective homeowner, I feel confident knowing that I won't have to call an industry pro for minor home repairs that I can tackle myself. The skills I am learning are also benefiting my friends and family as I help them with small projects in their homes.” — Kalisha O.

“I would like to be a home buyer but I find the process intimidating. I want to change that for my daughter and address my feelings of inadequacy by example. I learned about AbodesJoy when I finished a financial literacy course; this is the next step. I have basic knowledge about saving money to buy a home and I’m tired of being taken advantage of because I’m a single woman.” — Joyce W.

“My house is old, I’m single, and I want to be able to talk to plumbers and other repair professionals in an educated way. Like a lot of single women, I feel vulnerable to being overcharged or oversold by repair people who assume I don’t know anything.” — Kendra R.

“Today, I fixed the clogged bathroom and tub sink with baking soda, vinegar, hot water, and the plastic snake. It was so rewarding! The toilet is running, so I'm off to get a new flushing kit . . . I will have a friend install it, but at least I knew not to panic or call a plumber. I turned the water off, took a picture of the device, and will go get a new assembly. Felt so empowered!“ — Kay P.