From a full career to full-hearted volunteering
After retiring at the end of 2018 following a 38-year career with Shell, Steve knew one thing for sure. He didn’t want to trade a busy working life for a quiet retirement.
“I knew volunteering was definitely on my list of things I wanted to do,” he shares.
Steve took the time to research several charities and non-profits in Calgary, looking closely at their focus, how funds were used, and the scope of volunteer opportunities available.
Habitat stood out. He started on construction projects and later transitioned to the ReStore when COVID changed volunteer needs on build sites.
A career built on engineering and leadership
Steve spent nearly four decades working around the world in roles ranging from process engineering to plant and site management. His career also included time in human resources, supporting technical staff recruitment and management development. That problem-solving mindset and hands-on experience naturally carried into his volunteer work.
Life outside of volunteering
When Steve isn’t volunteering, he keeps busy in ways that might surprise you.
He spends at least one day a week hiking in Kananaskis or beyond. He’s also been a semi-professional singer-songwriter since he was about 15 and currently plays and sings in five different bands and music groups around Calgary. On top of that, Steve collects musical instruments and has learned how to build guitars and repair stringed instruments since retiring.
One of his proudest full-circle moments?
“I built my workshop using skills I learned on the construction sites, and largely equipped it with tools and materials from the ReStore.”
Steve also volunteers with the Calgary Shell retirees group and a few times each year with Friends of Kananaskis, helping with trail maintenance, litter cleanups, and safety days.
Why he keeps coming back
While Steve doesn’t consider himself religious, Habitat’s mission and vision strongly align with his personal values.
He’s enjoyed the people just as much as the work. From staff and fellow volunteers to customers he meets in the ReStore, the relationships keep him coming back. And there’s a bonus.
“The physical aspects of a Habitat [volunteer] shift are just as beneficial, but far more interesting than going to the gym.”
“I’m thankful for the opportunities I have had volunteering: working alongside skilled tradespeople on the construction sites, undertaking smaller-scale projects in the ReStores and in the weekly interactions with staff colleagues and customers. I have learned a lot and had a great deal of fun.”
Interested in volunteering with Habitat for Humanity Southern Alberta? There’s a place for every skill set, whether you love building, fixing, organizing, or connecting with people.
