“I gain as much as I give”
Jan Muir started her roots of volunteering early in life and continues to be an avid, lifelong volunteer within the community. Most recently, Jan volunteers with Habitat for Humanity Wellington Dufferin Guelph (Habitat WDG) as Vice Chair on the Board of Directors, as well as a member of the Family Services Committee, and at the ReStore in Fergus where Jan helps organize generous donations of both used and new furniture, lighting, appliances, cabinetry, and more that members of the community can purchase.
Habitat for Humanity is a not-for-profit organization whose mission is to break the cycle of poverty by building affordable housing and promoting homeownership. “Habitat WDG is an amazing organization to work with, and there are many different areas that you can volunteer in” says Jan. Jan’s first volunteer experience with Habitat was in 2012 at a build site. Jan saw the work that this organization was doing firsthand and has volunteered ever since.
Formerly a school principal, Jan has been involved in food security programs for children and helping at-risk kids and wanted to continue in retirement. Jan supports the notion that strong, positive educational outcomes are linked to food, housing and social-emotional security for children.
“I have the honour to work with Jan in my Family Services Coordinator capacity and personally witness her compassion towards the greater good of our community,” says Phillis Chang, Finance & Family Services Coordinator. “Jan generously shares her time and expertise, graciously treats all families we serve with respect and consideration and goes all the way to support everyone achieving program objectives. Jan’s selfless efforts have made an impact on many Habitat families and are greatly valued.”
Volunteering has many rewarding experiences. “I gain as much as I give,” exclaims Jan. Her favourite part is seeing the families passionate about the design of their new home and the excitement that they reflect during the whole process. For Jan, witnessing these families seeing their new home for the first time is what makes all the hard work and hours committed worthwhile.
Deb Stanson, Fergus ReStore Manager, says, “Occasionally you come across someone who embodies all the traits that make a great volunteer and who continues to wow you time and time again with her passion, integrity and energy.” Deb continues, “Jan contributes in many ways to Habitat WDG to fulfill its vision of ‘A world where everyone has a safe and decent place to live.’ I have had the sincere joy of working with Jan as she volunteered every Monday for the past year and a half at the Fergus ReStore. Jan is the type of person we need to make Habitat for Humanity a success.”
To learn more about Habitat for Humanity Wellington Dufferin Guelph and how to volunteer, please visit www.habitatwdg.ca. Donations of new and gently used items are welcomed at each of Habitat WDG’s ReStores in Guelph, Orangeville and Fergus.
