This is the season where all the non-profits line up to do the big ask [and fear not, I will get to that] but first I wanted to take some time to recount just how blessed we are as an organization, and to thank everyone again for all the giving throughout the year.   We are, first and foremost, extremely blessed with a wonderful crew of donors, volunteers, staff, and supporters that make our work so much more than about selling stuff. 

 

Few see the tireless work of our staff down at our ReStore, especially this time of year with no heat.  It is wonderful to see how much we have grown as a staff over the last year.  We have had some turnover but its all been for the best, and I don't think we have ever seen a ReStore staff as committed and team oriented as we have at this moment.  Their work is what makes all the various parts function as a whole.  They do a tremendous job and deserve the thanks of everyone who cares about Habitat and re-use here in our metro area.

 

We also have about the most unsung group of heroes around in our group of regular volunteers.  We don't have many, and need more, but if the staff is the backbone these folks are the blood.  We would come crashing to a fast halt without them.  These folks drive our truck, run the register, keep the office organized, and help keep us on track out on the floor.  Thanks are not enough for all their dedication and hard work.

 

Our donors include both household donors and business donors.  We thank you all.  The work of the ReStore in supporting Habitats mission would literally be impossible without these donations.  The commitment of countless homeowners and businesses in partnering with us to reduce the waste of materials and to help build Habitat Homes is truly amazing.  It is not always the path of least resistance to donate un-wanted materials, there are sometimes easier ways, but Portland is full of folks who care about doing the right thing even when its not convenient.  Businesses in particular have really stepped up to the plate this year and my fondest wish for next year is to put together a program for acknowledging these businesses as leaders within our community for their support.

 

Many of you are also our best supporters by shopping at our store.  This of course completes the circle; every shopper is actively involved in the building of Habitat Homes.  Swinging a hammer on site is the most direct way to build a house of course, but every dollars spent at our store is another shingle up, or wall raised, or roof on. 

 

As its more blessed to give than to receive I feel the need to emphasis what we have given back to our community.  Together as staff, donors, volunteers, and shoppers we have kept hundreds of tons of materials out of the landfill, we have found new homes for great materials and so conserved precious resources by not wasting what is already manufactured, and we have raised thousands of dollars to help build homes with families in need.  What a blessing, and how fortunate we are for the opportunity to give back to our community in these ways. 

 

However, it is the nature of our beast to receive, that makes it all go around.  So here's the ask; we need more, more donations, more volunteers, more sponsors and more shoppers.  So spread the word, become involved!  If you are a business donor, call us about helping to contact other businesses you know.  If you are a shopper tell others about what a great store we have.  If you are a volunteer, bring in a friend, talk to your employer, church, school, about groups volunteering.  The ReStore is having a great year and we need more of everything to keep it going stronger than ever.

 

Thanks again to all!  May you all have a wonderful holiday season.