Working with Habitat for Humanity was an experience that will stay with me forever. I had the honor of representing Simpson Strong-Tie at the Jimmy & Rosalynn Carter Work Project, held October 27 to 31 in Whisper Valley, a sustainable “naturehood” community in Austin, Texas. As a Roof Raiser sponsor, Simpson Strong-Tie helped support the construction of 25 affordable, energy-efficient homes powered by geothermal and solar energy. These homes were designed to reduce carbon emissions and lower energy costs while providing long-term housing affordability for deserving families. I like that Simpson Strong-Tie has supported Habitat for Humanity for more than two decades and has been a national sponsor since 2007, which ties into our Company Value #8: Give Back.
Our McKinney Texas branch coordinated Simpson’s participation, and six of us volunteered alongside hundreds of other individuals from across the country. We came together with one purpose: to serve others and help build something greater than ourselves. The energy was contagious as every volunteer brought their own story, heart, skills and determination to make a difference.
Our team worked on what’s called a finish house, which means we were putting the final touches on a nearly complete home before the family could move in. It was the stage where every detail mattered. Together, we installed cabinets, hung doors, caulked and patched the exterior and painted the entire outside of the house, all completed by volunteers. It took hours of teamwork, precision and collaboration to make sure every inch of that home reflected care and quality. From the first brushstroke to the final hardware installation, we knew we were doing something meaningful.
This year’s event was especially emotional because it was the first Carter Work Project since President Jimmy Carter’s passing. Our house leader, who has been volunteering for sixteen years, had a photo of President and Mrs. Carter displayed in our home as we worked. Each morning began with a prayer and an inspirational team meeting. Listening to her stories about the Carters and the incredible legacy they left behind was deeply moving. Their lifelong dedication to compassion and service set the tone for everything we did that week.
At the end of the week, as we stood in front of the finished home, paint on our hands and smiles on our faces, I couldn’t help but think about the family who would soon walk through that front door. Because of the collective effort of so many volunteers, they will have a safe, beautiful place to call home, and that’s what it’s all about.
It was inspiring to see so many people unite for the greater good, building not only homes but hope. I’m so grateful to be with a company that genuinely gives back to its communities and lives out its principles of compassion, community and service. I can’t wait to do it all again next year.
