Family of 14: Habitat for Humanity about more than building homes

The morning began with a thorough orientation and safety primer, and then we split off into groups, led by a supervisor, to our various regions of the house. We began installing the steel studs – long, lightweight vertical pillars – that would be used to support the walls on the top floor.

As we were led through the process we learned more about the precision and physics behind constructing a home, along with the family who would eventually live in it.

Habitat for Humanity approached them after hearing about their struggle through Global News. They’re a family of 14 with several special-needs children and another who had battled leukemia, all surviving on the sole income of one working parent.

It was after this realization that the significance and importance of what Habitat for Humanity does came into sharper relief. The dream of a three floor house, with all the amenities and comfort it affords, would never have been possible without the organization’s help.

Our modest contributions of time and effort the day were thoroughly rewarding and I recommend others offer their time and money to help out this important cause.

In addition to being fed and having fun, it was a great team building exercise for myself and my colleagues. We noted that because of our busy schedules it was rare to have the opportunity to sit down and actually talk about issues outside of work. Volunteering with Habitat for Humanity gave us that chance.

Minna Rhee, Allison Vuchnich and I grew closer by sharing personal stories throughout the course of our six to eight hour workday, and we had fun in the process. Those who give their time here seem to get back just as much, and more. It was a great experience.