Meet a Member of the Legacy Circle: Pam Olson

Why do you support Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity? 
We didn't always have a lot when I was growing up, but we had a home. As I grew older, I realized that a home is the foundation upon which other dreams are built. I love the fact that Habitat for Humanity changes lives, but just as importantly, I respect that it facilitates people changing their own lives. I think of it more as a partnership than as a charity, and that is important to me because I believe that the dreams you help to build are the ones that last. 

Tell me about your decision to leave a legacy gift: 
My husband, Doug, and I always knew that we wanted to leave legacy gifts and even though people often drag their feet when it comes to writing their will, we actually had a lot of fun deciding which charities to include. We would each take a sheet of paper and make a list of our favorite charities. When Habitat for Humanity consistently showed up on both of our lists, we knew we were making the right decision.

How does this gift make you feel? 
We wanted to leave a legacy giftthat reflected our giving values. The philosophy and practices of Habitat for Humanity support our belief in helping people help themselves. Our decision to support Habitat for Humanity makes me proud. It's humbling to know that even after I die, our gift will continue to help dreams come true for many people who deserve and need a home. 

What advice would you offer someone considering a legacy gift? 
I would advise others thinking about a legacy gift to look closely at how Habitat for Humanity engages people in their communities and to discover for themselves how such a gift can continue to make a difference for many years. 

Without the work of TCHFH, what would our community lose? 
Habitat for Humanity changes lives, it's that simple. I remember one gentleman I met who was so excited about the skills he had learned while helping to build his home that he felt confident he would be able to finish the basement himself. He and his wife were so proud that they could provide a home for their family, which included a 5-year-old recovering from cancer. The pride and spirit they feel, in part due to Habitat for Humanity, will likely be carried forward into the community and will enhance the gift they were given in ways that are immeasurable and have a lasting effect.