MEET THE FOUNDER
Melissa Bazely
At the young age of 15, Melissa went to the Dominican Republic for humanitarian work. A few years later, having lived there on and off, she inspired the Ontario Home Builder’s Association to rally 189 Ontario homebuilders and volunteers to take on a massive home building project in one of the most desolate areas of the country. With Melissa’s lead, this initiative would become the Builders For Change organization. Continuing to provide humanitarian support in the Dominican Republic, two additional trips were organized, completing more homes and partnering with Dove Missions, a much-needed Youth Development Center for children. Melissa did not stop there; her humanitarian work took her to Haiti, Mexico and parts of Africa.
Melissa & ana
Melissa also generously sponsored a young student from the Dominican Republic to come to Canada to pursue their post secondary education. That student is on their way to successfully completing their pursued studies. If it were not for Melissa’s love, perseverance and determination, those initiatives would not happen.
Today, a charitable organization exists (Builders For Change) where funds invested, will allow young people from underprivileged areas including from the Dominican Republic, can gain access to education. Melissa believed that education was one of the key factors out of poverty. That it can make a difference not only for the individual but for a community. She truly believed in the quote by Mahatma Gandhi: “Be the change you wish to see in the world.”
Melissa tragically passed away while fighting cancer on May 15, 2021 at the age of 32. She is missed beyond words. Builders For Change is her legacy. The founding board of directors, numerous volunteers and supporters are dedicated to ensure Melissa’s vision is kept alive and thrive for future generations.
