Calderdale charity builder in £50,000 windfall

Stephen Keenan, the co-founder and director of Happy Days Building and Roofing Company, has been awarded the materials by building suppliers Jewson to support his work in getting homeless people and those suffering from addiction involved in community projects.

As part of the Building Better Communities competition, the Trade Hero category celebrates those in the construction industry who work behind the scenes to make their neighbourhoods better places to live. At the awards event, the Trade Heroes and 32 local projects were presented with a share of a £250,000 prize by renowned architect and TV personality, George Clarke.

Following his win, Stephen said: I’m on top of the world. There are so many worthy causes in this competition so just to be recognised is fantastic. These materials will help us carry on our support work for the homeless and make a massive difference. We can also now bring the materials for other charity organisations we work with and get the ball rolling on their projects too.

George Clarke commented: It’s people like Stephen who help bring a community closer together. I’m really happy to see his efforts in supporting local people in need being recognised by Jewson and the funds will help him continue this great work.”

Jewson Managing Director, Thierry Dufour, added: “Stephen really stood out to the judges as the work he does has a far-reaching impact. There are increasingly a number of homeless people in our society who need a break to get back on track.

"Stephen and the Happy Days team give people this chance through projects that also make a difference to the local community. We can see how his £50,000 prize is going to help a lot of people.”