In November 2003 Ginny Glab Schultz and her husband Bob decided to volunteer in their new community.  They had moved to Tucson a year earlier from the Rochester, NY area.  Her work experience in human services had given her some knowledge of the Habitat for Humanity organization so it sounded like a good fit since Bob had lots of construction experience.  She called; they were signed up and attended an orientation that was scheduled the next day.  Within the week they were both involved in their own areas of interest and decided that the atmosphere, the staff, and other volunteers were a great fit. Their skills seemed to mesh with Habitat’s needs.  Ginny works several days a week in the office, primarily in the Homeowner’s Services department.  She has also assisted at the construction site on special builds such as Women Build and with many publicity outreach efforts.

For several years, she was responsible for coordinating Home Dedication Ceremonies which are held when the homeowner receives the keys to his/her home.  The event is attended by the homeowners and their families, a clergy person, financial sponsors, government officials, staff, volunteers, and community members who were involved in the building of the Habitat home. “It is a wonderful and heart warming experience and each ceremony is unique. Knowing that you are indirectly involved in helping a person reach their dreams is a most rewarding experience,” Ginny said. Close to 50 families have wonderful dedication memories thanks to her.

She strongly encourages others to get involved, describing the Habitat volunteer experience as a “win-win situation,” and guarantees that it is a fantastic way to meet new people. Her current “new friend” is Riley Richards, the two-year-old golden retriever office mascot/ greeter. Ginny, who owned two golden retrievers in New York is now Riley’s “au-pair’ and they both have a great time together.

Habitat was lucky to have Ginny spontaneously drop by seven years ago. Such devoted and enthusiastic people are great to have as volunteers.