From Girl Scouts to Home Repair Pros: Empowering the Next Generation Through Home Repair

A group of Girl Scouts in El Paso traded traditional summer activities for tool belts and hands-on learning. They walked away with more than just new skills. They left with a newfound confidence.

Through the workshop hosted by Rebuilding Together El Paso, 15 girls spent four days learning practical home repair skills, including drywalling and how to repair toilets and faucets. The workshop was designed to empower young women with the knowledge and confidence to take on basic home repairs themselves.

For many participants, it was their first time stepping into a space traditionally dominated by men and their excitement was undeniable. “Sometimes, like when I’m home alone, something will happen,” shared 12-year-old Noelle. “It’s important because we don’t have to be panicking and have to call somebody.” That sense of independence was a major takeaway throughout the week. Participants not only learned how homes function, but also discovered that they are fully capable of handling challenges that may come their way in the future.

Fourteen-year-old Elizabeth said the experience opened her eyes to possibilities she hadn’t considered before. “I really do feel like I’m going to take these skills with me,” she said. “As I grow as a person, I will definitely keep having these skills on me at all times.” The workshop also created space for connection and community. As the girls learned side-by-side, they encouraged one another, celebrated successes and discovered favorite projects, from repairing drywall to learning how toilets work.

Instructor Liliana Slosar said teaching the next generation of girls these skills is about much more than home repair. “We’re empowering them,” Slosar explained. “We’re giving them knowledge on what to do around the house.” She noted that for some participants, these skills can make a meaningful difference at home, especially for families navigating unique circumstances such as military deployment or single-parent households.

Beyond building confidence, the workshop also highlighted the long-term value of practical home repair knowledge. Understanding how to fix simple issues can help families save money, reduce stress and feel more prepared when problems arise. “They could do it themselves,” Slosar said. “They could save themselves money and they won’t be panicking.” Workshops like these reflect the power of hands-on learning and the importance of creating opportunities where young women can see themselves as builders, problem-solvers and leaders.