Volunteer Spotlight: Howard

When Howard showed up for his first volunteer shift on Friday the 13th, he joked that it might not have been the best day to start something new, but it turned out to be the beginning of something great.  

From pipelines to people-focused projects 

Before retiring, Howard spent more than 30 years as a mechanical engineer and project manager for a major pipeline transportation company. His career revolved around designing and overseeing large infrastructure projects, and while the work was complex, it was also deeply rewarding. 

“It’s nice to look back at a physical structure or piece of infrastructure that you’ve worked on and know that you helped create it,” he said. “I get the same sense of satisfaction volunteering at Habitat — both on specific tasks and completed projects.”  

When he retired, Howard knew he wanted to stay active and keep learning. He’d taken part in a few corporate build days with Habitat years earlier and enjoyed them, so the timing felt right to get more involved.  

Although his retirement coincided with the pandemic, he remembers driving past the Silvercreek build in Silver Springs and feeling drawn to it. “I’d see people working on these massive residential buildings, and I’ve always been interested in construction,” he said. “It felt like the perfect opportunity to do something I enjoy.”  

Finding community through construction 

At first, Howard joined Habitat because of his interest in building. But over time, the connections he’s made have become just as meaningful. 

“I’ve learned a lot from the staff and other volunteers – in fact I feel like I learn something new on every shift,” he said. “I’m an introvert, so it takes me a while to get comfortable with people that are new to me. The atmosphere on site is very welcoming, and now I enjoy coming to socialize with the staff and other volunteers.” 

Working alongside future homeowners has been another highlight. “They’re eager and appreciative of the opportunity to own their homes.”  

Habitat site supervisor Trish agrees that Howard brings something special to every build. 

“He’s pretty quiet,” she said. “But occasionally will laugh exuberantly when Dustin or I say something outrageous. He has four daughters, so we tease him that’s why he’s so stoic. He curls — and basically, we believe there should be a show with him as the quintessential Canadian dad.” 

Beyond the build site 

When he’s not volunteering, Howard splits his time between the rink, the golf course, and the cottage. In the summer, he golfs and spends time with family in Saskatchewan. In the winter, he curls and plays hockey with a group called U90. 

He also volunteers with Curling Canada, helping install curling ice at WinSport for major bonspiels, a task he stumbled into when they were “desperate for help” and one that turned into another way to take pride in hands-on work. 

Building with family support 

Howard’s dedication to volunteering is made possible by a strong support system at home. 

“My wife and four daughters are supportive of me committing time to Habitat. They are willing to rearrange their schedules so I can contribute,” he said. 

He adds that seeing the housing challenges his own kids have faced motivates him even more. “I am glad to have the opportunity to help others.” 

A builder through and through 

Howard’s favorite tasks are framing walls and drywalling — the moments “when the skeleton of a structure becomes rooms in a home.” But it’s not about the task itself he said, “It’s about doing it well.” (Though, for the record, moving drywall is his least favorite.)  

He’s also known for something less visible but equally valuable: spreading the word. As Volunteer Services Manager Lauren noted, “Howard is always advocating for us in the community, sending amazing volunteers our way.” 

After more than a thousand hours on site, Howard has helped build far more than homes. He’s built relationships, purpose, and the kind of quiet leadership that keeps Habitat’s mission moving forward.