Volunteer spotlight: Hugh

A purposeful retirement

When Hugh retired after a long and varied career in telecommunications, he knew he wanted his next chapter to be just as purposeful. “Like many volunteers at Habitat, I wanted to be productive when I retired,” he explained. “I was looking for something more hands-on where I could keep learning. Home construction with Habitat fit the bill…a bonus is all the power tools that I get to use.”

Since joining Habitat in 2015, Hugh has logged more than 2,300 volunteer hours on build sites. From framing walls to installing flooring, he has had his hands in nearly every stage of construction. While he admits he’s not a fan of insulation duty on a hot day—or digging post holes—his commitment hasn’t changed.

“It’s important to have purpose in life and to give back,” Hugh said. “It’s satisfying knowing that I am making a positive difference for working families to own their own homes.”

A career of problem-solving

Hugh’s career in telecommunications spanned technical and operational support, wireless sales, financial reporting, regulatory policy, and internal audit. Those years honed his problem-solving skills and adaptability, qualities he now brings to the build site. Whether he’s navigating tricky projects or encouraging a new volunteer, Hugh approaches each day with patience and a steady hand.

Outside of Habitat, Hugh and his wife keep an active schedule with fitness and yoga classes. They also love to travel, spend time with family, and celebrate milestones together. At home, Hugh enjoys making (and sampling) his own wine.

Building homes and community

For Hugh, volunteering is about more than building homes. It’s about building community. He treasures the camaraderie of working alongside fellow volunteers, site supervisors, and future homeowners. Those relationships, combined with the tangible impact of helping families move into safe, affordable homes, keep him coming back week after week.

With more than a decade of volunteering under his belt, Hugh embodies what makes the Habitat community so strong: purpose, generosity, and connection. And while he may downplay his hours or brush off the tougher jobs, his contributions have helped create homes—and futures—for dozens for Southern Alberta families.