At Habitat for Humanity Southern Alberta, we’re fortunate to have volunteers who pour their hearts into making a difference. One of those incredible people is Doug, and today we’re thrilled to share his story!
Meet Doug!
Doug joined us back in 2011, right after retiring from a long career as an IT Manager. After taking some well-deserved rest, his wife “subtly suggested I should get out and do something.”
Lucky for us, Doug found his way to Habitat for Humanity—and he's been a cornerstone for volunteering at our ReStore ever since.
Doug in 2016, volunteering in the warehouse at Habitat ReStore Sunridge Way
Doug started out on the sales floor helping customers, but he was soon asked to be part of the Warehouse team. In just a few months, Doug was working behind the scenes greeting donors at the receiving dock and assisting staff with pricing, assembly and cleaning.
More than a decade of giving back
Doug’s “can-do” attitude made him an essential part of our team, and his work didn’t stop at the ReStore. He has also represented Habitat and ReStore at Calgary Home and Garden Shows!
After nearly a decade in the warehouse, Doug briefly took a step back, but we couldn’t let him go for long! When we needed someone to onboard new volunteers at our Sunridge Way ReStore, Doug was the perfect choice.
Doug sits at the computer proudly showing the ReStore Volunteer Orientation Manual.
Now, he’s often the first person new volunteers meet, making them feel welcome and supported from day one. He guides them through policies, introduces them to staff, and gets them comfortable in their roles.
Feeling the love
Doug’s warm and patient approach sets everyone up for success, and it’s clear he loves helping people feel at home. But don’t just take our word for it:
“Nebila & I spent the first two to three hours receiving a welcoming orientation from Doug. He was amazing by the way, it was done seamlessly, and he answered all my questions without losing patience (happens quite often to me).”
Mohammad, restore 'Brown Box' Volunteer
We couldn’t agree more. Doug has become such a beloved part of our team, and we’re constantly in awe of his dedication. Our staff love him just as much as the volunteers do!
“Doug is incredibly kind, personable, a great communicator, reliable and overall, just awesome with new volunteers, and I feel great about placing volunteers in the ReStore knowing they have Doug to show them the ropes on their first day. Huge Doug fan!!”
Lauren, Manager, Volunteer and Community EngagemenT
Volunteering with a side of seeing the world
When he’s not at the ReStore, Doug is still busy giving back—he is a Board Member at the Nose Creek Valley Museum in Airdrie. During the week he also volunteers at the museum by giving school tours, as well as pitching in with maintenance for the facility and galleries.
Would you believe he still has time to travel too? Doug claims to be a “wannabe photographer” and loves to travel with his wife taking photos, especially of nature.
One of Doug's many photos from a safari trip in Kenya and Tanzania.
They’ve spent time exploring the world creating memories together in New Zealand, Australia, and a safari in Kenya and Tanzania. They are currently planning a trip back to New Zealand in 2025 and we can’t wait to see his photos!
Feeling inspired?
If Doug’s story inspires you, why not join us as a volunteer?
Whether you have a few hours or a few days to give, we’d love to have you on the team.
You can make a real difference, just like Doug!
Doug, thank you for being such a wonderful part of the Habitat family. Your energy, kindness, and dedication inspire us all, and we’re so fortunate to have you!
