Get to Know WoodmenLife’s Partner Organization: Habitat for Humanity

WoodmenLife is committed to making a difference in communities across the country. It’s a value that our associates embrace. Each year, WoodmenLife offers associates paid time off to volunteer in the community. Associates have the option to use that time to volunteer with one of WoodmenLife’s eight partner organizations.

Learn more about one of those organizations, Habitat for Humanity^®, as told by the WoodmenLife team leader, Allen Curtis.

Tell us a little about Habitat for Humanity.

Habitat for Humanity is an organization that works with families, local communities, volunteers, and partners from around the world to help more people live in affordable and safe homes. The organization’s advocacy efforts focus on policy reform to remove systemic barriers preventing low-income and historically underserved families from accessing adequate, affordable shelter.

How does Habitat for Humanity align with WoodmenLife and our values?

Like WoodmenLife, Habitat uses volunteer opportunities to give back to local communities. Whether it is new home construction, existing home renovations, neighborhood revitalization, or disaster response, volunteers are always needed to support its mission.

Why is Habitat for Humanity important to you personally?

I have always been fortunate to have a “roof over my head” and a warm bed to sleep in. This is not the case for some who struggle to obtain these necessities for themselves and their families. By working as part of the WoodmenLife team, I can lend my skills to help provide these individuals and their families with a chance to live in a well-built home constructed by individuals who care.

What inspired you to start volunteering in your community?

I enjoy helping others and giving back to my community. When I have been part of an important community project, I have made new friends and felt a connection with my community. Helping others in need gives you a feeling of accomplishment knowing you made a difference in the lives of those who need help the most.

What kind of work do WoodmenLife volunteers do for Habitat for Humanity?

Volunteers will be asked to work on construction-type tasks. Some examples include framing, installing insulation, drywall, siding, deconstruction, landscaping, painting, and light cleaning.

Tell us a little about how you feel after completing a volunteer shift.

With volunteer shifts being full days, you may feel a little worn out and tired. But after reflecting on what you and your team have accomplished that day, a sense of extreme pride and gratification overcomes you. Helping others in need feels good.

Can you talk a little about the camaraderie among WoodmenLife associates as they volunteer together?

Volunteers sometimes don’t have the opportunity to interact with each other during a normal workday at WoodmenLife. Providing a chance for associates to work together on a valuable community project, one for which we all share a passion, helps us develop and strengthen our relationships and camaraderie within WoodmenLife.

Are there any particularly memorable moments from your time working with Habitat for Humanity?

Some of the most memorable moments have been watching individuals who have never used or are afraid of power tools overcome these obstacles throughout the day. With solid instruction and guidance from Habitat employees, along with hands-on experience, these individuals gain the skills, knowledge and comfort to use these tools.

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