Organization: Habitat for Humanity and various local organizations
Volunteer Service: 4 years
In which ways do you volunteer in your community?
As a member of Associated Bank’s Regional Volunteer Council, I am actively involved in my community throughout the year with events such as Rotary Lights, Downtown Main Historic Day and Habitat for Humanity to name a few. The majority of my volunteer time is with Habitat for Humanity at their build sites and serving on their Marketing Committee.
What is the mission of Habitat for Humanity?
Habitat for Humanity focuses on providing affordable, safe housing solutions in the community through sweat equity homebuyer programs, education and builds.
How did you first get involved with them?
When I first joined Associated, my market was volunteering at a home build and I decided to sign up. The experience was so enjoyable that I’ve been involved ever since.
What is the most rewarding part of volunteering?
I know that not everyone has the same opportunities in life, so I find that creating an opportunity or helping others is the most rewarding part of volunteering. With Habitat, I get to do just that because I work alongside the future homeowners at builds and celebrate with them at their housewarming ceremony.
Can you share a memorable experience from your community involvement?
Working with Habitat this last year has been the most memorable experience so far. Their build manager, Curtis, has been teaching me new skills to expand my ability to help at build sites—including working with power tools. This is something I wouldn’t learn on my own and I appreciate his patience with me throughout this journey.
How has volunteering had an influence on you?
It drives my desire to give back. Time can be a barrier to getting involved, but the feeling you get from giving back makes you slow down and find the time to help someone. Additionally, I want to make sure the place I live, and work, thrives.
What have you learned about your community through your involvement?
I’ve learned that I live in a very giving community and met a lot of great people from volunteering. With Habitat, I’ve gotten to learn about the history of homes in our area. Many of them are older and built with different materials than we use now.
What advice would you give other colleagues looking to start volunteering?
If you’re looking to get involved, find an organization you enjoy because it’ll drive your desire to keep giving back and feel like time well spent. I’ve found that it only takes a few minutes to change someone’s life.