Habitat Tucson (HT): Tell us about yourself.
Pat Hirschman (PH): I’m originally from Massachusetts where, I taught Special Education for 9 ½ years. In Massachusetts, I was involved in several volunteer organizations, including The Junior League, Learning Disabilities Assoc., the Conservation Commission and the Historic Preservation Commission.  When I got married and moved to New York I started a new career working in the Operations Dept. of a large corporation headquartered in Manhattan.

After moving to New Jersey 25 years ago, my husband and I started a glass importing business.  We traveled extensively to Europe and the Far East.

I love hiking in and around this wonderful city, playing tennis and attending the numerous concerts, movies and lectures available in Tucson.

HT: How long have you volunteered for Habitat for Humanity Tucson?
PH: Since moving here 2 years ago, I have worked at Corazon de Pueblo building homes, and had the honor of being a crew leader on Building Freedom Day 2009.

HT: Why do you volunteer for Habitat?
PH: I have been very fortunate in my life and I truly appreciate what I have and the life I share with my husband.  Volunteering at Habitat gives me an opportunity to give back or pay it forward.  I started at Habitat once a week and now twice a week.  All the volunteers that I work with, some older, some younger from very diverse life experiences, share my enthusiasm for giving back.  The camaraderie and the spirit on the jobsite with all the people, the ADC ladies, the staff and the volunteers, are a pleasure to work with and that is what makes it all fun.  I still am a novice at this, but the staff and the volunteers are always ready to help and guide on a project.

HT: What is your favorite memory from all of your volunteer work at Habitat?
PH: Building Freedom Day, 9/11/2009, what an incredible experience; to be part of the spirit and energy of all the volunteers.  One of the best parts of the day was working with Angelica, the homeowner of the home I was working on, she just beamed all day and her enthusiasm was contagious, the homeowner of the home I was working on, she just beamed all day and her enthusiasm was contagious.