Rick was first introduced to Habitat through a few build days while he was still working. After retiring and returning to Canada from a two-year mission in Liberia with his wife, he was looking for a meaningful way to give back.
“My wife suggested I start volunteering with Habitat,” Rick says. “I’ve been coming ever since.”
Serving beyond the build site
A chemical engineer by training, Rick spent his career working in refineries and on the business side of the oil and gas industry. His construction experience began at home with DIY projects, and Habitat quickly became a place where he could learn new skills while helping others do the same.
Outside of Habitat, Rick’s time is largely spent doing what he describes as his “hobby”: helping and serving others. He has volunteered for many years with Scouts Canada, currently volunteers with the ALS Society, and spends several hours each week in church service.
He and his wife also love visiting their children and grandchildren, most of whom live outside Calgary, and traveling together. They’ve visited all 10 provinces and 49 U.S. states, with plans to explore the territories and Alaska next.
What keeps Rick coming back to Habitat?
“Knowing that I am helping families to help themselves have a more stable life brings me a great deal of satisfaction,” he shares.
“I really enjoy working side by side with the families and with the other Crew Leaders and construction site leaders. It’s a great group of people to spend time with.”
When asked if he has a favourite task on site, Rick doesn’t hesitate to credit the team around him. “It’s hard to pick a favourite activity. I enjoy learning new things and am grateful that Dustin and Trish are willing to put up with me!”
Rick deeply believes in Habitat’s affordable homeownership model — one that combines hands-on building, education, and volunteer support to create lasting change. “It works really well and has proven successful,” he says.
“I would encourage anyone looking for a meaningful opportunity to volunteer and make a difference in the community to come and join us.”
And thankfully for us, Rick plans to keep coming back for many more years.
