Written by Spokesperson for Habitat for Humanity’s National Women Build Week, Holly Robinson Peete
Growing up my parents instilled in me the importance of giving back. To this day, one of my favorite quotes is, “service is the rent that we pay for living” by Marian Wright Edelman. Rodney and I work hard at raising our kids to be service-minded and one of the ways we do this is through example.
I have been blessed to be able to lend my name in support of many wonderful organizations that work to improve the lives of women and children. Habitat for Humanity’s work in this area is empowering and necessary. A home provides a safe place for children to grow up confidently and thrive academically. Each year, during the week leading up to Mother’s Day, Habitat for Humanity’s National Women Build Week shines a spotlight on homeownership challenges faced by women. It also encourages women to get out and build in their local communities. I am thrilled to again be the National Women Build Week spokesperson and to be building with Habitat for Humanity of Greater Los Angeles on May 9th. Living in Los Angeles, I see the need for affordable housing day in and day out.
One of the best things about volunteering with Habitat for Humanity is how much you learn. One of my favorite lessons I have learned since I began building with Habitat for Humanity is that I am a natural with a nail gun and a power saw! I find them to be so empowering and no one can touch my tools at home but me. I always leave a Habitat site feeling like I have the skills to fix anything around the house!
Holly Robinson Peete with Partner Homeowner Maria Rendon
The interaction that you have with partner homeowners on a Habitat build site will change you. This is because Habitat does not give homes away, partner homeowners purchase their homes and actually build alongside you. I encourage everyone to get involved by volunteering, donating or just spreading the word (join me on Twitter @hollyrpeete). Together we will make a difference, one house at a time.
Thank you to everyone who gives and supports National Women Build Week. Now let’s get to work!
This story originally appeared on the Habitat for Humanity International Blog.
