Volunteers will renovate the Rachel’s Women’s Center during one-day “blitz build” coinciding with AIA26 Conference on Architecture & Design
December 10, 2025 (San Diego) – ConstructConnect, a leading provider of software solutions for the construction industry and a presenting sponsor and founding partner of the 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization AEC Cares, announced that this year’s AEC Cares project will benefit Catholic Charities Diocese of San Diego (CCDSD), a nonprofit with more than 100 years of helping families in need. On Wednesday, June 10, 2026, more than 100 volunteers will gather to renovate Rachel’s Women’s Center, a day center for women who are unhoused or have a very low income.
Each year, AEC Cares engages the architecture, engineering, and construction community in a volunteer event coinciding with the annual AIA Conference on Architecture & Design. The site of this year’s project, Rachel’s Women’s Center, provides a safe, supportive environment and opportunities for women with few or no resources to gather, begin, and continue self-help efforts between the hours of 7 a.m. and 5 p.m.
“The ConstructConnect team and AEC Cares Board are thrilled to support Catholic Charities’ longstanding history of service to the women of San Diego,” said Jennifer Johnson, ConstructConnect Chief Product Officer and AEC Cares Board President. “Through generous donations from our partner organizations and volunteers, we hope to make meaningful contributions to the wellbeing of women served throughout the year at Rachel’s Women’s Center.”
Reflecting a shared commitment to empowering women and building futures, this renovation will focus on reimagining the center as a more welcoming environment to support the women served by CCDSD and enhance their sense of self-worth.
“For decades, Rachel’s Women’s Center has stood as a vital refuge and a beacon of hope for women in need across our community,” said Vino Pajanor, CEO of CCDSD. “We are deeply grateful to AEC Cares and all the volunteers for bringing their vision, talent, and compassion to this project. Their 2026 Blitz Build will not only revitalize an aging facility, but transform it into a modern, trauma-informed space that truly reflects the dignity, healing, and support our program strives to provide.”
The project also coincides with efforts to revamp the related CCDSD Rachel’s Promise Center for Women and Children, a 210-bed shelter. Added Pajanor, “As we prepare to open the Rachel’s Promise Center for Women and Children, this renovation strengthens the entire continuum of care we offer in downtown San Diego—ensuring that every woman who walks through our doors is met with an environment that uplifts, empowers, and honors her journey.” To learn how to join #AECCaresProjectSanDiego as a sponsor, donor, or volunteer, visit aeccares.com.
About ConstructConnect
At ConstructConnect, our software solutions provide the information that construction professionals need to start every project on a solid foundation. For more than 100 years, our keen insights and market intelligence have empowered commercial firms, building product manufacturers, trade contractors, and architects to make data-driven decisions, streamline preconstruction workflows, and maximize their productivity. Our newest offerings – including our comprehensive, AI-assisted software – help our clients find, bid, and win more projects.
About AEC Cares
AEC Cares is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation led and supported by founding partner ConstructConnect as well as generous sponsors, donors, and volunteers. Bringing together architects, contractors, manufacturers, and industry professionals, AEC Cares works to create positive change through meaningful projects that benefit a new community every year.
About Catholic Charities Diocese of San Diego
Since 1919, Catholic Charities Diocese of San Diego (CCDSD) has served as the social ministry arm for the Diocese of San Diego. CCDSD exists to exemplify the scriptural values of mercy and hospitality by Witnessing the gospel message contained in “Matthew 25” to advocate for a just society by Calling individuals and institutions to action on behalf of the poor, the vulnerable, and the marginalized. For over 100 years Catholic Charities has maintained its commitment to help nourish, shelter, inspire, and welcome the stranger regardless of their gender, race, or religion. To learn more visit ccdsd.org.
