2025 IMPACT REPORT
YEAR IN REVIEW
IMPACT BY THE NUMBERS
Tracking the progress that’s shaping lives and communities.
WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
Empowering our people through growth, learning and opportunity.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Partnering with purpose to uplift the places we call home.
IMPACT PROJECTS
Building spaces that inspire connection, equity and meaningful change.
GROWTH & RECOGNITION
Celebrating the achievements and milestones of our dedicated team.
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
Our work has always been about people those who live in the communities we serve and those who help us build them. From empowering our workforce and creating pathways to economic self-reliance to partnering with Ascend Workforce Solutions and Vertus High School to expand opportunity, every effort reflects our belief that progress is most meaningful when it uplifts everyone. As 2025 comes to a close, I am reminded of how far we’ve come and how much more we can achieve together. This year has been one of focus, growth and renewed purpose. We strengthened our foundation as a social impact contractor and developer, deepened our community partnerships, and elevated the standard for what it means to build with intention.
This year’s inaugural Revitalize & Innovate Symposium brought together local and national voices to showcase what inclusive development looks like. The energy and ideas exchanged reminded us that collaboration fuels transformation and that lasting impact happens when everyone has a seat at the table.
As we look ahead to our 25th anniversary, we do so with gratitude and resolve. Our next chapter calls us to deepen our impact, nurture emerging leaders and continue proving that construction can—and should— be a catalyst for equity, opportunity and belonging. Thank you for believing in our mission and walking alongside us. Because of you, USC Builds continues to build with Unity, Social impact and Craftsmanship today and for generations to come.
Our work has always been about people those who live in the communities we serve and those who help us build them.
May the new year bring fresh energy, deeper connections and continued purpose.
With heartfelt thanks,
Melissa
IMPACT BY THE NUMBERS
Your partnership amplifies our mission and helps transform construction into a catalyst for community impact.
1,188
AFFORDABLE HOUSING UNITS DELIVERED
Affordable housing is the foundation of strong, stable communities When families have access to safe, attainable homes, they can redirect their resources toward education, healthcare and personal growth creating a cycle of opportunity that extends for generations.
75
NEW JOBS CREATED IN OUR COMMUNITY
Job creation fuels economic stability and gives people a sense of purpose By expanding meaningful work opportunities, we help build a stronger, more inclusive community where individuals can grow, contribute and thrive. This year, we welcomed 60 new field crew members and 15 corporate hires further strengthening our diverse, talented team.
9,880
HOURS OF PAID TRAINING PROVIDED
A career in the skilled trades brings pride knowing you’re shaping the built environment while earning in-demand, well-paying work. By providing hands-on training and clear paths for advancement, we help our team and community build fulfilling careers where their skills are valued, essential and respected.
10
DONATIONS TO MEANINGFUL CAUSES
This year, we sharpened our commitment to supporting mission-aligned partners whose work drives equity and opportunity Our contributions prioritized organizations uplifting women and historically underserved communities building momentum for stronger neighborhoods, greater access to resources and long-term community well-being.
WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
future here one defined by growth, mentorship and opportunity. Eleven employees were promoted from within, a testament to our belief that the best leaders are those who rise through shared experience, hard work and heart.
That same commitment extends beyond our ow walls. Through our partnership with Ascend Workforce Solutions and Vertus High School, w helping young people discover pathways into th skilled trades and the life-changing potential o career in construction.
By investing in people—our team, our partners our community we’re building confidence, capability and the future of our industry.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
At USC Builds, showing up for our community is part of who we are. We believe real change happens when people come together with intention, empathy and action.
In 2025, we deepened our investment in Rochester and Ithaca through partnerships, volunteerism and initiatives that meet people where they are. From supporting neighborhood revitalization efforts to championing youth programs and local nonprofits, our team continues to strengthen the social fabric of the places we live and work. Each act of service reflects our belief that construction has the power to unite and uplift.
We continue to partner with like-minded organizations that share our commitment to equity and empowerment investing our time, talent and resources in causes that create meaningful change.
2025 COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT HIGHLIGHTS
GREATER ROCHESTER HABITAT FOR HUMANITY GALA
ACTION FOR A BETTER COMMUNITY 30TH ANNUAL MEMORIAL GOLF OUTING
GreaterRochester,
CONNECTED COMMUNITIES 10 ANNIVERSARY GALA TH
TEEN EMPOWERMENT LUNCHEON
ROCHESTER REGIONAL HEALTH’S HEALTHY MOMS FAMILY RESOURCE FAIR
YWCA ROCHESTER & MONROE COUNTY EMPOWERING WOMEN LUNCHEON
ST. PETER’S KITCHEN LUNCH PROGRAM
URBAN LEAGUE OF ROCHESTER 60 ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION TH THE CHILD ADVOCACY CENTER 20 HOPE RISING GALA TH
WELOVEU FOUNDATION’S FLOWER CITY SCHOOL NO. 54 HOLIDAY BOOK DRIVE
2025 REVITALIZE &
INNOVATE SYMPOSIUM
In June, Rochester became the stage for a national conversation on inclusive development and equitable growth. The inaugural Revitalize & Innovate Symposium, hosted by USC Builds and sponsored by the City of Rochester, convened visionary leaders, developers, policymakers and community advocates from across the country to explore how cities can grow without leaving people behind.
Over two days, the event infused the region with fresh ideas— uniting civic, private and nonprofit sectors around a shared goal: reimagining how communities can revitalize responsibly and innovate with purpose.
The Symposium opened with a networking reception during the Rochester International Jazz Festival, setting a tone as vibrant as the city itself. The following day featured an immersive program of keynote presentations, panel discussions and case studies from cities leading the way in equitable transformation, including Washington, D.C., Milwaukee, Philadelphia, Cleveland and Rochester. These
stories showcased what’s possible when economic investment, social equity and design excellence come together to serve the greater good.
Each session explored critical dimensions of urban revitalization—from affordable housing and workforce development to infrastructure innovation and public-private partnerships. The exchange of ideas underscored a powerful truth: inclusive development is not only achievable, it’s essential to a city’s long-term resilience and prosperity.
For Rochester, the Symposium was more than a milestone event; it was a declaration of intent. The city is shaping its future through collaboration, creativity and shared accountability. By hosting this national dialogue, USC Builds and its partners ignited a broader movement positioning Rochester as a model for equitable, communitycentered growth. The momentum sparked at Revitalize & Innovate continues to ripple through new projects, policies and partnerships, redefining what it means to build impact together. Click here to watch this year’s highlight reel and see what’s in store for 2026.
TESTIMONIALS INNOVATESYMPOSIUM 2025REVITALIZE&
The most valuable part for me was getting a glimpse behind the curtain at what it truly takes to secure funding and seeing how much collaboration between stakeholders is required to deliver successful large-scale projects.
A really impressive amount of quality content in such a short amount of time! All of the panelists did a great job summarizing their work and responding to the facilitator's questions.
I loved hearing about projects that succeed in the face of adversity, especially the Thrive on King initiative.
Thank you for all your hard work in bringing this event to life!
IMPACT PROJECTS
As we look back on 2025, we celebrate a year of impactful projects that embody our commitment to community and excellence. Each initiative tells a story of collaboration, innovation and dedication to making a difference. In this section, we showcase our most notable projects—each a testament to our mission of uplifting communities and empowering individuals.
We are profoundly grateful to our clients and partners who entrust us with their projects, allowing us to bring their visions to life. From revitalizing public spaces to supporting workforce development, these projects not only reflect our core values, but also highlight the meaningful partnerships that drive our success. Join us in exploring these accomplishments that contribute to a more equitable and thriving future for all.
CONNECTED COMMUNITIES | NEIGHBORHOOD HUB
The Neighborhood HUB at 616 North Goodman Street is a 6,300-square-foot revitalized space designed to empower the community through connection, education and opportunity. As the general contractor, USC Builds self-performed drywall, paint, acoustical ceiling tile installation, plumbing, framing, trim carpentry, stairwell installation and door installation ensuring a high-quality transformation built to serve. The HUB provides health and wellness programming, financial empowerment workshops, youth engagement activities, business center resources and a dedicated gathering space. More than just a renovation, this project embodies USC Builds’ commitment to creating spaces that inspire, uplift and drive lasting community impact.
USC BUILDS’ ROLE
General Contractor
PROJECT COMPLETION DATE 2025
OWNER
Connected Communities LOCATION Rochester, NY
ARCHITECT
Hunt Engineers, Architects & Surveyors
SELF-PERFORMED SCOPES
Acoustical Ceiling Tiles, Drywall Installation & Finishing, Framing, Painting, Plumbing, Specialty Ceiling Feature, Stairwell & Door
Installation, Trim Carpentry
CONNECTED COMMUNITIES | NEIGHBORHOOD LAB
The Connect Lab at 360 Webster Ave is a state-of-the-art collaborative hub created to empower entrepreneurs and nonprofit organizations in the EMMA and Beechwood neighborhoods. Designed with community at its core, the space offers a modern environment where innovators and change-makers can connect, exchange ideas and build solutions that drive lasting impact. More than just a workspace, the Connect Lab is a catalyst for collaboration, growth and neighborhood transformation. To help bring this vision to life, our team self-performed a range of scopes including selective interior demolition, structural and wood framing, insulation, drywall and acoustical ceiling tile installation.
USC BUILDS’ ROLE
General Contractor
PROJECT COMPLETION DATE 2025
LOCATION Rochester, NY
OWNER
Connected Communities
ARCHITECT
Hunt Engineers, Architects & Surveyors
SELF-PERFORMED SCOPES
Acoustical Ceiling Tiles, Drywall Installation & Finishing, Insulation, Selective Interior
Demolition, Structural & Wood Framing
GREATER ROCHESTER HABITAT FOR HUMANITY | BUY THE BLOCK
USC Builds is proud to partner with Greater Rochester Habitat for Humanity on its Buy the Block initiative—a transformative effort to expand affordable homeownership and strengthen neighborhood stability. This year, USC Builds helped bring three new homes to life across Rochester’s northeast side, helping families build economic self-reliance and lasting opportunity for generations to come.
USC BUILDS’ ROLE
General Contractor
PROJECT COMPLETION DATE
2025
LOCATION
Rochester, NY
OWNER
City of Rochester
ARCHITECT
smartDESIGN Architecture
SELF-PERFORMED SCOPES
Framing, Drywall
Installation & Finishing
YWCA ROCHESTER & MONROE COUNTY | PERSIMMON PLACE
USC Builds proudly provided subcontracting services for Persimmon Place, a supportive housing project developed by YWCA Rochester & Monroe County. Designed to serve up to 12 families transitioning from homelessness to long-term stability, the space prioritizes safety, comfort and dignity. Our scopes of work included acoustical ceiling tile installation, drywall hanging and finishing, FRP installation, insulation, wall protection and wood framing each contributing to a healing environment that empowers women and families on their path forward.
USC BUILDS’ ROLE
Subcontractor
PROJECT COMPLETION DATE 2025
LOCATION Rochester, NY
GENERAL CONTRACTOR
Hamilton Stern
ARCHITECT
SWBR
OUR SCOPES OF WORK
Acoustical Ceiling Tiles,
Drywall Installation & Finishing, FRP, Insulation, Wall Protection, Wood Framing
GROWTH & RECOGNITION
In 2025, we saw remarkable growth—with new hires, promotions and accomplishments that reflect the dedication and talent of our team. Recognizing excellence isn’t just about awards or titles; it’s about honoring the passion, hard work and resilience that each member brings to our mission. While we don’t seek accolades, we’re grateful for the recognition that shines a light on our collective impact. As we celebrate this year’s achievements, we’re more inspired than ever to continue building a supportive and empowering environment where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
NEW YORK STATE SENATE EMPIRE AWARD
RBJ IN THE LEAD: BEST WOMEN-OWNED BUSINESSES
RBJ LEADERS IN CONSTRUCTION & REAL ESTATE HONOREE
GREATER ROCHESTER CHAMBER TOP 100 LIST [RANKED #10]
GREATER ROCHESTER CHAMBER MWBE AWARD
GREATER ROCHESTER CHAMBER INCLUSIVE LEADERSHIP AWARD FINALIST
RBJ POWER LIST, CONSTRUCTION & REAL ESTATE
CITY & STATE NEW YORK TRAILBLAZERS IN CONSTRUCTION
CITY OF ROCHESTER MWBE LONGEVITY AWARD
RBJ IMPACT & INCLUSION AWARD
ATHENA INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONAL AWARD®
TY Foreman | Culture Club Ambassador
Ty joined USC Builds in 2015 as an insulator. A decade later, he’s a foreman leading job sites, mentoring younger workers and proving what hard work and consistency can build. He came for job security, the chance to learn multiple trades and a familyoriented culture and it changed the trajectory of his career. Through multiple USC Academy programs, Ty grew from knowing one trade to gaining expertise across many. The training shaped him as both a builder and a leader. “Running jobs and growing with your crew is a great thing. We all teach each other. We learn as a team and continue to elevate.” A standout moment was a multifamily project where he stepped into a second-in-command role and led his first crew independently proof he was ready for more responsibility. Ty carries
EverydayIwakeup grateful.Ihaveajob thatprovidesformy familyandletsme helprebuildmy community.
that same pride into every project. Recently, a young tradesperson approached him on a site after recognizing the USC Builds logo on his sweatshirt. Ty helped direct him to an application on our company website and shared what the job has meant for him. “These small gestures make a big impact.” For Ty, Building Impact means rebuilding the same community he watched struggle growing up and helping bring it back to life. He’s grateful every day for work that provides for his family and gives him a purpose bigger than himself. To the next generation, his message is simple: “Consistency is key show up every day, on time, with a positive attitude. The more you learn, the more you grow. You’ll go a long way.”
MARY-ANN
Lead Person | Culture Club Ambassador
Mary-Ann joined USC Builds in 2021 as an air sealer. Today, she’s a lead person with hands-on experience across nearly every USC Builds scope, from metal framing and hanging drywall to acoustical ceiling installation, fire caulking and fire taping. Her path to construction was personal. She wanted the skills to build and repair things in her own home. After volunteering with Habitat for Humanity for three summers and completing a six-week construction course, she applied to USC Builds. Our team responded immediately and it turned out to be the right fit. In 2024, Mary-Ann completed USC Academy’s 18-month Excellence & Empowerment series, gaining confidence, technical knowledge and leadership skills. She now mentors newer teammates and loves watching them grow.
IfothersseewhatI’ve achieved,maybe they’llbeinspirednot toletanythingstop themfromachieving theirdreams.
“It’s cool to see them learn new skills and be excited about their job.” Her proudest moments are the ones where she pushed herself to try something new and achieved more than she expected. She’s also proud of the affordable homes she’s helped bring to life, knowing people will live comfortably in spaces she had a hand in building. To Mary-Ann, Building Impact means leading by example and showing others what’s possible. “If others see what I’ve achieved, maybe they’ll be inspired not to let anything stop them from achieving their dreams.” She hopes her journey shows others where hard work can take you and how quickly skills improve when you stay committed. Her advice for anyone just starting at USC Builds? “Don’t give up. Learn as much as you can.”
LOOKING AHEAD
As we look ahead, our path is guided by a simple belief: construction is more than building structures, it’s building people. Every project creates space, but it also creates possibility. We harness potential, open doors and teach skills no one can ever take away. That impact lasts long after the job is done.
In 2026, USC Builds will celebrate 25 years of growth, partnership and purpose. A quarter-century of giving people a chance to learn, to work, to lead and build a life they’re proud of. And we know we didn’t reach this milestone alone. We’re deeply grateful to our clients, vendors and community partners who share our values and trust us with the opportunity to effect change where it matters most.
The work ahead excites us. There are more people to lift, more neighborhoods to invest in and more futures waiting to be built. With Unity, Social impact and Craftsmanship as our compass, we will continue proving what’s possible when a company chooses to build impact from the inside out one career, one project, one community at a time.
CONNECT WITH US
Visit us at uscbuilds.com or contact us at info@uscbuilds.com. Follow us on social media for company updates and a closer look at how we’re building impact every day.