Central Minnesota Habitat For Humanity Always Looking For A Few Good Volunteers!

One of my favorite organizations in the world is Habitat For Humanity. They have done so much good for so many people all over the globe, and they will continue their work until every person has a home.

In 1997 I had the opportunity to volunteer for a week at the "Jimmy Carter Work Project" for HFH in Pikeville, Kentucky.

"Hammering in the Hills" of Appalachia was a life-changing experience.

I drove down there with my hard hat and hammer, ready to build. Instead, they assigned me to the President's house. My job? To stand near Jimmy Carter and keep the spectators away. While that might sound harsh for a wonderful, non-profit organization, there was a reason behind it.

At the opening ceremonies, President Carter spoke to us. He explained that while he and Rosalynn would happily chat with us during our lunch breaks, he asked that we respect his work time and allow him to keep pounding those nails until the end of the day. And he did. Without question, he was one of the hardest working guys out there.

I stood next to Mr. Carter's Secret Service Agent all day long. "Tough job, huh?" He politely smiled. A man of few words. But I guess that comes with the territory.

In our area, we have Central Minnesota Habitat For Humanity. They are a nonprofit, ecumenical Christian ministry founded on the conviction that every man, woman and child should have a decent, safe and affordable place to live. They build with people in need regardless of race or religion and welcome volunteers and supporters from all backgrounds.

CMHFH works in partnership with low-income families and community volunteers to build and renovate houses, creating decent and affordable shelter. CMHFH serves Benton, Stearns, Sherburne and Wright Counties.

If you've been considering taking on a new volunteer project that makes you feel good, I might suggest Habitat for Humanity. You will certainly learn new things (although I'm still not very good at swinging a hammer) and the feeling you get from helping others is something you won't be able to measure.

Find out more about Central Minnesota Habitat For Humanity and how you can volunteer: http://www.cmhfh.org/