Olive Satchell: ReStore Mentor

I am passionate about giving back to the community and enjoy helping working families find a safe and reasonable place to live.

Although I volunteer in other areas of Habitat GTA, I am most consistent in the area of home improvement through the Restore. I enjoy working with other volunteers and staff to ensure that the team has a positive experience and that materials donated are ready and presentable for resale at an affordable price. Thus, contributing to a very rewarding experience for customers, staff and volunteers and over time help to cover some of the costs of building homes and upholding Habitat’s mission and vision.

The wellbeing of others is important to me, and the Mentorship Program gave me an opportunity to engage in meaningful leadership. I have been able to contribute ideas that enhance the growth and development of others, welcome new volunteers and allow them to feel included as they learn about the Guiding Principles and participate in transitioning into the Habitat GTA Family.

By volunteering with Habitat GTA, I have been given an opportunity to develop new practical skills, learn the names of many tools, and develop greater interpersonal, communication, and transferable skills. Additionally, I get a chance to meet new people including homeowners, community partners, students, likeminded volunteers, skilled workers, staff and professionals. Best of all, the joy I feel in being kind and caring by contributing to the wellbeing of others is heightened.

I will continue to be the best mentor that I can be and will not hesitate to recommend that others participate in Habitat’s Mentorship Program. By so doing, I will be helping to build a cadre of volunteers who will support Habitat GTA in providing homes for more families and addressing the housing crisis in the GTA.

Olive Satchell, volunteer and Habitat Mentor at Habitat ReStore, North York.