Habitat Canada’s ReStore Distribution Centre team

Habitat for Humanity Canada

Six dedicated volunteers work at Habitat Canada’s ReStore Distribution Centre, representing over 100 years of Habitat experience. They each began their journey at the Brampton, Ontario Habitat ReStore before choosing to volunteer at the Distribution Centre. These amazing volunteers help process donations by testing, assembling and cleaning – to determine which items should be shipped across the country to various ReStores. They also clean and organize the warehouse – and always fill the warehouse with stories and laughter. Volunteers give a lot and also receive a lot, primarily in the form of friendship and feeling good about giving back. Thank you to Eva, Dick, John, Brian, Ralph and Bob!

Terrye & Peter Dawson

Habitat for Humanity Cornwall & the Counties

Terrye and Peter have been volunteering with Habitat for Humanity Cornwall & the Counties for more than 10 years. Terrye is a fixture at the Habitat ReStore cash – always ready with a good story – while Peter has been instrumental in ensuring the ReStore is a safe place for customers, staff and other volunteers through in-store audits and committee work. This husband-and-wife team is the epitome of dedication. No matter the challenge, Terrye and Peter are up to it. Habitat Cornwall & the Counties can’t thank Terrye and Peter enough for their continued dedication and support and look forward to another 10 years!

Louis Krushnisky

Habitat for Humanity Greater Toronto Area

Louis has been an active volunteer with Habitat for Humanity Greater Toronto Area since 2019, contributing more than 2,700 hours of his time in a variety of roles. As part of its Build Leader Program, Louis guides volunteer groups, teaching others how to build and work safely. He regularly supports the deconstruction team and visits sites across the city to help secure donations for Habitat ReStore. Louis also volunteers at multiple ReStore locations, is an active member of Habitat GTA’s Joint Health and Safety Committee and is deeply knowledgeable and passionate about the work of Habitat. Habitat GTA is immensely grateful for the dedication and heart that Louis brings to his role as a volunteer, and proud to include him as part of the Habitat family.

Gary Varsava

Habitat for Humanity Grey Bruce

An incredibly hard working and dedicated volunteer, Gary recently celebrated his 1000th corporate volunteer build day with Habitat for Humanity Grey Bruce. In addition to build days, Gary has volunteered on a remarkable 63 builds, helped renovate three Habitat Grey Bruce ReStores and head office, and served on its Board of Directors. He has also volunteered on international Habitat builds. Gary’s positive, can-do attitude and valuable experience are assets to Habitat Grey Bruce. He is always willing to share his time and knowledge with others. We congratulate Gary for his extraordinary contribution and service to Habitat in building homes for families in need of affordable housing across Grey and Bruce Counties.

Sandy Evers

Habitat for Humanity Guelph-Wellington

Sandy has been volunteering at Habitat for Humanity Guelph-Wellington’s Fergus ReStore since 2018. A hardworking volunteer, Sandy sees what needs to be done and simply does it, jumping into action while chatting amiably with fellow volunteers, staff and customers alike. She regularly updates the Fergus ReStore’s social media pages with sales information and ensures product on the floor is beautifully staged, helping items to sell quickly. In 2023, Sandy contributed 278 hours, and is on her way to contributing many more hours this year. Thank you, Sandy for your amazing contributions to Habitat.

Charles "Chuck" Simpson

Habitat for Humanity Halton-Mississauga-Dufferin

When Chuck joined Habitat for Humanity Halton-Mississauga-Dufferin as a volunteer in 2022, it “hit the jackpot.” Chuck generously donates his time and skills by volunteering a few times a week at its Burlington Habitat ReStore. Chuck’s contributions have been invaluable in various aspects of its ReStore operations – testing items, pricing, stocking shelves and providing excellent customer service. His positive attitude, extensive knowledge and expertise, reliability and willingness to be a team player have truly made a difference. Chuck embodies the spirit of volunteerism and community service, fostering a sense of camaraderie among other team members and contributing to the success of the Burlington ReStore. Congratulations, Chuck!

Steve Borutski

Habitat for Humanity Hamilton

Steve has been an invaluable member of the Habitat for Humanity Hamilton team since 2020, dedicating over 300 hours. He lends a hand wherever it's needed – whether it is working with the salvage team, contributing to the Fix-It shop, participating in RePair and Build programs, or assisting with large deliveries and donations. Steve’s exceptional construction, leadership, and problem-solving skills, combined with a seemingly endless reserve of energy has earned him respect and admiration. Through Steve's efforts, countless families in the community have achieved their dreams of hope, stability and the opportunity for a brighter future.

Darryl Morley

Habitat for Humanity Huron County

Darryl is a dedicated, weekly volunteer at the Habitat for Humanity Huron County ReStore. The ultimate team player, Darryl will work on any task, from assembling furniture, to helping pick up donated items from around the community, to promoting sales in the ReStore. Darryl regularly goes above and beyond expectations. This, along with his reliability and great sense of humour make him an excellent member of the team. You can often hear his laughter ringing throughout the warehouse, making the ReStore a joyful place to be. Thank you, Darryl, for your wonderful contributions to the work of Habitat Huron County.

John Benson

Habitat for Humanity Huronia

Affectionately known as Benson, John is a dedicated volunteer who has been with Habitat for Humanity Huronia since 2015. Over the years, John has contributed close to 2,200 hours to the Habitat Barrie ReStore, using his exceptional skills in installation, repair and construction. Beyond his technical abilities, John’s impact extends to mentoring new volunteers, imparting not only practical skills but also instilling confidence in them to tackle unfamiliar tasks. John is an integral part of the Habitat Huronia family. His infectious humor adds an element of fun to the work environment, making every task a little brighter. Congratulations, John!

Trudy Mattey

Habitat for Humanity Manitoba

Trudy fell in love with Habitat for Humanity Manitoba as a hospitality team member during the Carter Work Project in 2017. Since then, she has remained a familiar face at events, in the office, and on the build site, including leading the food support team during a two-week stint for Habitat Manitoba’s 2023 Cycle of Hope fundraiser. Says Trudy, “Meeting the people who build homes and the families who purchase them is amazing … to see the faces of the families as they are handed the keys [to their new homes] and watch the kids race around to find their bedrooms is magical.” We are truly grateful for Trudy’s commitment and dedication to Habitat.

Mike Helpert

Habitat for Humanity Newfoundland & Labrador

It’s fitting that you can't spell Helpert without ‘help.’ More than a volunteer, Mike is a beacon of kindness and dedication at Habitat for Humanity Newfoundland & Labrador’s ReStore. Mike approaches each challenge with enthusiasm and a willingness to lend a helping hand. His reliability and can-do attitude make him an indispensable asset to Habitat Newfoundland & Labrador’s team. But what truly sets Mike apart is his infectious positivity and genuine smile. His upbeat personality and good humour never fail to light up the room. Thank you, Mike, for your unwavering dedication and selfless contributions to Habitat.

Dave Drew

Habitat for Humanity Niagara

Dave has been a valued volunteer at Habitat for Humanity Niagara’s Grimsby ReStore for over five years, spending time each week testing and repairing items in its Donation Centre, as well as mentoring new volunteers and students. He recently broadened his volunteering roles to include Co-Chair of Habitat Niagara’s Joint Health and Safety Committee and Vice Chair of the Board of Directors. Dave’s work experience brings knowledge to the organization and enables him to expand Habitat Niagara’s reach into the community. We are grateful for Dave’s dedication, and his willingness to bring his expertise, positivity and diplomatic approach to Habitat Niagara.

Dave Brothers

Habitat for Humanity Northwest Territories

Dave has been an integral part of Habitat for Humanity Northwest Territories as a board member since its inception in 2012. As its volunteer build chair, he uses his extensive career experience in project and construction management, literally having helped build Habitat NWT from the ground up. Dave secures build contracts, finds contractors, and secures donations of labour and supplies – all as a volunteer! In the past several years, COVID-19, floods and wildfires have created significant building challenges and delays, but Dave always finds a way to get the job done. We are incredibly grateful for Dave’s dedication and passion for ensuring families have a safe place to call home.

Nancy Forrest

Habitat for Humanity Northumberland

Nancy began her Habitat journey in 2017, volunteering alongside a future homeowner completing 500 partnership hours at the Habitat for Humanity Northumberland ReStore. Happily for Habitat Northumberland, she decided to stay. Nancy has since volunteered over 1,500 hours with Habitat. Committed, welcoming and exceptional at customer service, Nancy is always willing to help. Her enthusiasm is infectious. She engages with potential volunteers at community recruitment fairs and excels at leading ReStore volunteer orientation, ensuring all new volunteers are fully trained. Nancy is a true ambassador for Habitat Northumberland.

Bill Lipsett

Habitat for Humanity Okanagan

Bill has been an integral part of the Habitat for Humanity Okanagan family for the past seven years, contributing his time and skills with steadfast dedication. Bill isn't just a volunteer; he’s the Habitat ReStore tool go-to guy. His expertise and attention to detail ensure that every power tool is tested, and every socket is organized to perfection. Bill also demonstrates his craftsmanship when building shelves and displays for the ReStores. But what truly sets Bill apart is his warmth and humour. He brings joy to even mundane tasks. Bill’s presence is a gift that keeps giving. Thank you, Bill! We are truly grateful for all you do.

Steve Allen

Habitat for Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha Region

Steve has volunteered with Habitat for Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha Region’s Peterborough South ReStore for the past three years, in-store, on its salvage and truck teams, and with social committee events. A highly respected and admired volunteer, Steve is always finding new ways to improve the ReStore. He creatively merchandises departments and shares ideas to increase sales and help customers, with one of his more brilliant ideas increasing ReStore metal recycling revenue through proper metal sorting and safer storage. Steve is proud of the work of Habitat and has become an ambassador in the community. We are very lucky to have Steve as part of Habitat Peterborough & Kawartha Region’s team.

Rick Verdicchio

Habitat for Humanity Prince Edward Island

Rick joined Habitat for Humanity Prince Edward Island in 2022, bringing a wealth of knowledge to its ReStore while sharing his creativity, knowledge, expertise and leadership at Habitat PEI’s administrative office. Reliable and hardworking, Rick specializes in designing and using recycled material to give new life to old items. His creative solutions have improved revenue streams, helping to increase impact in the community. Rick is more than a volunteer – he is a valued member of the entire team. We thank Rick for his incredible contributions to Habitat PEI.

James Lee

Habitat for Humanity Red Deer

James is an asset to the Habitat for Humanity Red Deer ReStore, since he began volunteering in 2021. James does everything from sorting through donations, to arranging items on the sales floor. As an electrician, James also volunteers for more specialized projects that require electrical knowledge. Always willing to lend a hand and offer support, James takes pride in knowing that money raised from the ReStore goes towards building homes for families in his community. He is committed to the people he volunteers with and the families that Habitat serves. Thank you for your dedication, James!

Cheryl Sklar

Habitat for Humanity Saskatchewan

Cheryl has been volunteering with Habitat for Humanity Saskatchewan in its Regina ReStore since 2020, contributing over 500 volunteer hours. Her favourite part about volunteering is the satisfaction of giving back, and at the same time, doing something she enjoys. "Volunteering at Habitat for Humanity helps me help others by participating in raising funds to help build future housing for people who might not otherwise qualify." A valued team member, Habitat Saskatchewan couldn’t imagine a Habitat without Cheryl. Congratulations, Cheryl!

Ben Willcock

Habitat for Humanity Sault Ste. Marie & Area

A dedicated volunteer at the Habitat for Humanity Sault Ste. Marie & Area’s ReStore for over 15 years, Ben contributes 30 hours per week as a donation centre assistant. Whether he is helping on the truck with pick-ups and deliveries, engaging with donors, helping a customer with a carry-out, or jumping on front cash, Ben is always ready and willing to support. Over the years, Ben has established himself as a leader, helping welcome and train new volunteers. Many regular customers have come to know Ben and seek his assistance and expertise. Ben’s contributions are invaluable. Thank you, Ben, for your unwavering support and dedication over the years.

Grand Forks Habitat Restore volunteer team

Habitat for Humanity Southeast BC

Since the opening of Habitat for Humanity Southeast BC’s Grand Forks ReStore in 2015, an incredible group of more than 18 volunteers have helped to create its small-town success. Consisting of amazing individuals, this group has celebrated great success and deep loss. In late 2023, Southeast BC lost their much-loved ReStore staff leader – Ben Gawletz – who passed away suddenly. The team has shown resilience and strength by continuing to help operate the store and be a source of emotional support for each other and the community. This group of volunteers loves the Grand Forks ReStore and the work of Habitat Southeast BC. They are a gold-star example of a hard-working, dedicated volunteer group.

Ian Emmerson

Habitat for Humanity Southern Alberta

Ian has been with Habitat for Humanity Southern Alberta since 2000, working on its build sites as a crew leader. In 24 incredible years he has contributed well over 15,000 volunteer hours and helped 350 families move into affordable homeownership. Staff rely on Ian’s leadership, and in 2023 alone, he was on the build site 143 times. These days, Ian is still on-site several days a week.

In addition to volunteering with Habitat Southern Alberta, Ian has also taken part in several Habitat international builds including in Nicaragua, El Salvador and Portugal. We thank Ian for all he has contributed to Habitat, both locally and globally, and to helping families build strength, stability and independence through affordable homeownership.

Pete Peterson

Habitat for Humanity Vancouver Island North

A long-time volunteer with Habitat for Humanity Vancouver Island North, Pete is a build site and Habitat ReStore volunteer who recently ‘retired’ from his regular Habitat volunteer roles. Prior to retirement, Pete tested and repaired lighting fixtures and you could often find him working at the cash, assisting customers with their purchases. Phil has chosen to remain on Habitat Vancouver Island North’s Joint Health and Safety Committee, ensuring safety at the ReStore for staff, volunteers and customers. He provides input during monthly safety walks and meetings. We are grateful for Pete’s wonderful contributions to Habitat Vancouver Island North. Thank you, Pete.

Doug Snyder

Habitat for Humanity Waterloo Region

Doug first joined Habitat for Humanity Waterloo Region in 2013 as a dedicated member of the Habitat Waterloo Region salvage team. Always available to lend a hand, he’s often the go-to-person on the team when something needs to be done. Doug is dependable, hard-working, reliable, knowledgeable and diligent. Doug often tells stories of growing up in Waterloo Region. Drawn to people, he has an easy connection with others, and is always happy to chat – a valuable skill when working with local donors. Thank you, Doug, for your dedication and commitment to Habitat Waterloo Region.