Working with Habitat for Humanity Huronia this summer as
marketing assistant was awesome. Before I started this job I had very little
knowledge as to what Habitat was. I knew that they built houses but never knew
why or who for. Since working here I have learned that Habitat doesn’t just
build homes but they build opportunities. These families finally get a place to
call home, somewhere where they can feel safe. Once I started to learn more about
the application process and why Habitat does what it does, I knew I was at the
right place. I was grateful to work with the affiliate side with their events
and social media, as well as with the ReStore to showcase volunteers and staff.
Right off the bat I felt at home. Everyone was so welcoming
and excited to have me on board. They even had a new office space built for
myself and the other affiliate summer student which was pretty cool. Everyone
on the affiliate side works so hard every day and I was just happy be here and
help wherever necessary.
(Jon, Rylie, Emalie and Don at our Anne Street location completing interlock)
I was able to contribute to our Golf FORE Humanity event in
July. From set up to tear down the event was a huge success. I was able to meet
a lot of our donors and supporters of Habitat and hearing why they donate and
why this specific organization means something to them was truly touching. It
felt so good knowing that after all the hard work, we raised $27,500 for our
future build in 2019 that will house five hard-working families in need.
Working with the ReStore team was one of my favourite things
to do. I connected with all of the staff and volunteers and really go to know
them personally. I was so impressed by the volunteers who took time from there
busy life to give back knowing they are helping Habitat’s mission. In some cases
the Restore is part of the volunteer’s lives and for some it is a place of non-judgement.
They have many volunteers with disabilities and this becomes a place to learn,
and give them stability and purpose. I learned how amazing these people are and
that working at Habitat you become family.
Another thing I learned while working here is that profits
from the ReStore go toward builds within our community. Everything at the
ReStore is sold at an affordable price which helps the community. The ReStore
is a full cycle system with four R’s; Recycle, Reuse, Reduce and Rebuild.
The one thing I will cherish was hearing the stories of the
Habitat families. You realize that they really
do appreciate the hand-up, and in the end it does
have a very positive affect on their lives and their children’s. I highly
recommend that everyone goes on to Habitat’s website
to read all of their stories to further understand why they were chosen.
Overall this was an awesome summer and I will miss everyone, but I will be back to volunteer for our 2019 build! I can’t wait!