Volunteer Spotlight: Inside a ReStore Volunteer’s First Months with Habitat
Not every volunteer story starts with swinging a hammer on a build site. Sometimes it starts with something as simple as a conversation and a willingness to show up where help is needed.
That’s how Andy found his way to Habitat for Humanity Williamson-Maury. In just a couple of months, he’s already become a familiar face at the ReStore, stepping into the everyday rhythm of donation drop-offs, organizing inventory, and helping the store run smoothly behind the scenes. From unloading trucks of plants to cleaning out refrigerators and sorting light bulbs, Andy has quickly seen how even the most ordinary tasks add up to something meaningful.
In this Volunteer Spotlight, Andy reflects on what brought him here, the moments that have stuck with him so far, and what he’s learned about service along the way.
How long have you been involved with Habitat for Humanity Williamson-Maury?
“About 2 months.”
What first brought you to Habitat?
“I wanted to help serve our community, and I heard about Habitat's home-building volunteer efforts. I learned more about Habitat's ReStore at a nonprofit fair through the Nashville Young Leaders Council and decided to sign up.”
Do you remember your very first volunteer day? If so, what was that experience like?
“Yes, I met a few members of the organization, including Ansel, Shelley, and Sid. Everyone was very kind and helpful! They showed me around and explained how the ReStore works, and I remember helping clean out a refrigerator and organize light bulbs.”
Has there been a moment on-site that stuck with you?
“Helping our staff unload a truck full of plants was a memorable and fun experience! We moved a lot of potted ferns, flowers, and vines to the front of the building.”
Describe a Habitat volunteer day in three words.
“Serving, fulfilling, rewarding.”
What’s something volunteering here has taught you?
“Volunteering here has taught me how rewarding it can be to serve others by completing ordinary day-to-day tasks.”
Why is this mission important to you personally?
“I care about serving my community and providing them with affordable resources that help improve their lives.”
What’s one thing you wish more people knew about Habitat?
“Habitat does more than building homes, which I have learned through volunteering at the ReStore!”
How does volunteering make you feel connected to others?
“It is a physical way that I can help serve others and experience that I am making a positive difference in our community.”
What’s one reason someone should volunteer with Habitat this year?
“There is a great group of people on staff who are supportive of the volunteers, making the experience enjoyable.”