Every Wednesday, JP arrives at ReStore ready to see what needs to be done. He keeps a notebook and pen nearby to remember his tasks and keep track of what he learns–and there is always something new to learn.
Since joining the team in August 2025, JP has contributed more than 180 volunteer hours. He helps put newly donated items on the sales floor, makes sure they are priced and ready to sell, and looks for the next job he can take on.
“He is always ready to learn new things and looks for the next big task,” says Joe, a team lead at ReStore.
One of JP’s favourite tasks is helping customers load purchases into their vehicles. It gives him a chance to do some heavy lifting, work alongside the team, and make sure customers leave happy.
It’s also where JP’s outgoing personality shines.
“JP fit right into our team on the first day,” store manager Sarah says.
“He loves making connections with customers, and he even has a couple of regular customers who come to him specifically for help.”
A familiar place
JP knew about ReStore long before he began volunteering. Growing up, he often visited with his dad when they needed appliances or materials for projects around the house. He loved going to hardware stores and seeing how renovation projects came together. These days, he puts that interest to work helping his dad and brother with renovation and landscaping projects of their own.
JP had already gained warehouse experience through the Autism Aspergers Friendship Society, volunteering with the group at the Women in Need Society warehouse to sort clothing donations. At ReStore, he has continued building those skills while taking on more customer-facing responsibilities.
Volunteering at Habitat felt like a natural next step. JP wanted to support affordable homeownership in his community while gaining confidence and learning more about warehousing, construction, landscaping and the skilled trades.
More than a skillset
The experience has given him plenty of opportunities to learn, but JP says the people are what keep him coming back each week.
“I love working with Sarah and Joe because they’re awesome people to work with,” he says. “They give me different tasks each time so I can continue to learn and grow. They’re fun people to work with.”
The feeling is mutual.
“JP has been such a great addition to the team,” says Lauren, Habitat’s Volunteer Services Manager. “He always has an enthusiastic greeting for everyone and is a VERY hard worker.”
Outside of ReStore, JP likes to stay busy. He enjoys hiking, biking, working out, drawing, reading, listening to music, and spending time with friends.
He also loves to cook. After working in a professional kitchen and completing culinary training with a chef, JP has developed a few specialties. His signature meal is herb salmon with green beans and mashed potatoes.
Whether he is cooking, helping with a renovation project, or loading a ReStore purchase into someone’s vehicle, JP enjoys working alongside others and learning as he goes. It has been less than a year since he started volunteering at Habitat, but he has already become an important part of the team.
