BUILD-PAC Advances Housing Agenda with Events on Both East and
West Coasts
In June recently appointed 2026 BUILD-PAC Chairman and WNC President & CEO Will Cooper, Jr. advanced BUILD-PAC’s mission through both fundraising and advocacy efforts held on both east and west coasts. BUILD-PAC is the housing advocacy arm of the NAHB (National Association of Home Builders).
During the week of the NAHB Spring Leadership Meeting and Legislative Conference, held June 9–13 in Washington, D.C. Cooper joined seven NAHB members—including four representatives from WNC—for an extensive congressional outreach effort. The group met with 20 Congressional representatives, including Housing Committee on Financial Services members Rep. Brad Sherman (D-CA-32), Rep. Juan Vargas (D-CA-52), and Rep. Young Kim (R-CA-40), discussing key housing industry priorities and strengthening relationships with policymakers.
During the conference, Cooper and BUILD-PAC Associate Vice Chair Chris van Pelt unveiled an ambitious new fundraising initiative: the 250 Campaign. Created in honor of the nation’s 250th birthday, the campaign challenge is to recruit 2 Capitol Club members and 5 Gold Key members—with no (0) excuses.
Cooper also brought his high energy to the west coast, where he hosted a BUILD-PAC fundraising event in Pacific Beach that attracted approximately 50 attendees and generated $43,000 in contributions. Special guest Representative Scott Peters (D-CA-50) was awarded the Defender of Housing Award, BUILD-PAC's highest award for housing. Peters also spoke on housing affordability, highlighting issues in his district territory of San Diego, and fielded audience questions.
The event also featured special recognition ceremonies honoring BUILD-PAC’s most dedicated supporters. At a donor pinning ceremony, Capitol Club, Platinum Club, and Gold Key Club members were recognized for their commitment to advancing the industry’s advocacy goals. Among those honored was WNC Founder Will Cooper, Sr., who, in addition to donor pinning, also received one of the inaugural Foundation of Housing Awards. This new distinction recognizes contributors who have maintained Capitol Club-level support for at least 20 years, celebrating their sustained dedication to BUILD-PAC and the housing industry.
According to Cooper Jr., the inspiration for the award came when he realized his father had accumulated so many BUILD-PAC recognition plaques that there was no room left on the wall to display them all. The Foundation of Housing Award now serves as a meaningful tribute to members whose long-term commitment has helped BUILD-PAC remain a powerful voice for housing.