Valdosta’s many beautiful homes were built by a variety of builders and contractors. Each of those companies have needs that must be met while they work within governmental regulations and with governmental agencies. Fortunately, local builders have an ally for when problems arise.

The Home Builders Association of South Georgia Inc. exists for that purpose, to serve as a voice for the building industry in communicating needs and wants to officials at the local, state and national levels.

Chartered in May 1965 with George L. Nichols as president, the Association purpose is to promote and provide quality housing at affordable prices while also promoting education and ethical standards to members.

At its inception, the Association did not have its own home. Georgia Power Co., a member of the organization, provided office space in one of the local branches. All operations were carried out in the borrowed space.

The organization represented builders in 17 different counties throughout South Georgia, including Lowndes, nearby Brooks, Cook, Berrien, Echols, Lanier and Clinch as well as many others.

During its 40 years of existence, the Association has reached many goals. Through a variety of charitable projects, the organization and its members have been able to give back to local not-for-profit organizations like the Red Cross and Second Harvest Food Bank.

They also support education through the new George l. Nichols Scholarship, which is open to any student who will be or is attending college or a technical institute to pursue a degree in a building related field of study.

It has also led local and state officials to make improvements on regulatory and building related issues that better the working environment for members and the industry as a whole. Members are currently involved in state-wide builder licensing, a project expected to take effect in July 2007.

The Association has also remained a constant source of information regarding the building industry and home construction.

In addition to improvements in building regulations and community involvement and home construction education, the Association has increased its supported members from 126 to 400. In order to provide necessary services and support to so many members, organization sought a place to build its own home.

Now located in Greystone Office Properties Park at 3380 Greystone Way behind the Summit Pointe shopping center off Inner Perimeter Road, the Association will be better equipped to service the needs of its many members including continuing education, industry related workshops and house networking functions.

The Greystone Office Park was chosen because it was conveniently located and easily accessible by members. The new office, built by Scott Lyons and Carl Law of Law Construction Co., is 3,000 square feet with multiple offices, a board room and a multi-purpose meeting room.

Construction took only six months, and the organization is now operating from its new home.

“With the help of several of our member companies’ donations and time, we were able to build this facility with little debt,” said Jill Pope, executive officer for the Association. “This would not have been possible without their support.”

The organization will give back to its members in return for their support, as office and meeting spaces will be open to members for use.

Executives and members celebrated the opening and the Association’s 40th anniversary with an event held July 7.

The Chamber of Commerce cut the ribbon on the new facility, and guests were invited to tour the organization’s new home.