Leila Abel and One Way Construction: Building a Better, More Caring Community
Leila Abel, the dynamic force behind One Way Construction Inc., has led a life marked by resilience, compassion, and a commitment to serving her community. As a nearly 55-year-old mother of two grown men, including one who serves in the military, Leila juggles her responsibilities with the same care and dedication she extends to her clients and community projects. She is also a doting pet mom, especially to her beloved Cavapoo, Hank.
"My company is small; however, that allows me to concentrate on outstanding customer service that goes above and beyond most others," Leila shares. In addition to its female ownership in a male-dominated field, the focus on personalized service sets One Way Construction apart. Specializing in handyman-- or handywoman-- work, upgrades, remodels, and new builds, the company offers a unique, tailored approach to each project. "Yes, my customers have my personal number, and I'm available to discuss your project before, during, and after. With us, it's personal," she emphasizes.
Leila's journey to becoming a Class A residential builder is as inspiring as it was challenging. After being kicked out of high school during her senior year, she earned her GED and, later, her high school diploma. "Shortly after, I became divorced and a single mother," she recounts. The struggles were immense, from moving annually to facing homelessness. "It's very worrisome wondering how you're going to feed your child and where you're going to live," she recalls. Despite these hardships, she persevered, eventually earning a Bachelor's degree and a Master's in Business Administration.
The origins of One Way Construction are deeply personal. "My grandfather and father had a construction business years ago called One Way Construction, where I took the name," Leila explains. Her brother, Gary Russell Garrett II, played a pivotal role in her life, providing her with a stable place to live during her most challenging times. "My life would have been so different if my brother hadn't provided me with an affordable, stable place to live," she says. In honor of his memory and support, she continues to drive her business forward with the same spirit of giving back.
Leila's commitment to community service is evident in her numerous volunteer projects. "My team recently volunteered with Simply Angels, a small volunteer organization that serves veterans of all branches," she notes. Additionally, she is involved with Old Dominion Humane Society, working on projects like upgrading outdoor play enclosures for resident pups. Her dedication extends to fostering for One By One Deathrow Dog Rescue, Inc. and other shelters.
Understanding many's financial burdens, Leila strives to make her services accessible. "To help everyone, I attempt to keep our prices low; I do not mark up purchased materials," she says. Recognizing the rising construction costs, she is exploring financing options for customers with less-than-perfect credit or those needing financial assistance.
Looking ahead, Leila dreams of addressing homelessness through establishing a nonprofit organization. "My biggest wish is to address homelessness. Realistically, I know I can't end it," she admits. Her vision is to offer a leg up to those in need, helping them get back on their feet and providing the stability they need to rebuild their lives.
"I would love to start a nonprofit organization (NPO) to provide temporary housing to veterans, single parents, recovering addicts, and anyone who needs a boost while trying to get or stay on track," she shares.
Reflecting on how different her life would have been without her brother’s assistance, she hopes to honor him and his generosity by paying it forward. Her deeply personal experience fuels her desire to create a nonprofit offering similar support to others. Leila envisions a future where her nonprofit can provide temporary housing, job training, and resources to help individuals transition to permanent housing and stable employment.
Leila Abel's story is a testament to the power of resilience, the importance of community, and the impact one person can have through dedication and compassion. One Way Construction is not just a business but a passion project made into reality through Leila's perseverance. As Leila herself says, "While it's true that businesses must make money to survive, that is not my only goal." Her true mission lies in serving others and building a better, more caring community.
