ReStore is One Little Piece of the Goodness

For regular volunteer Donna, serving at ReStore in New Brighton provides three things she believes everyone craves: novelty, familiarity, and belonging. “There’s nothing more novel than the items that come into ReStore and the jobs we do. We have routines, yet no two days are the same,” she explained. “But there’s also a sense of belonging with the staff, volunteers, and even customers. Volunteering regularly only deepens that familiarity.”

Donna’s experience with Habitat for Humanity goes way back, starting when she worked on a build in New York City years ago. She got involved with Twin Cities Habitat because some groups she belonged to volunteered with Women Build. Then Donna retired and started looking for more construction volunteer roles. When winter arrived, she discovered ReStore opportunities on the volunteer website.

“When I retired, I wanted to do something purposeful for others. It’s important for me to help build community,” she shared. “I found that opportunity with Habitat and now at ReStore. Here we are one little piece of the goodness. ReStore really engages all parts of the community.”

Donna believes that we don’t need a disaster or crisis to happen in order to do good. She volunteers with ReStore each week because of its commitment to the goals of Twin Cities Habitat: expanding homeownership, increasing racial equity, and supporting the community. At the store, her jobs vary. Sometimes she organizes and restocks items. Other times she prices, helps customers, or loads furniture. That variety is part of what Donna loves about volunteering—there’s something for everyone. “Everyone has something to contribute. You don’t have to be a certain kind of person to volunteer here. You have something to offer. You’re needed.”

She also looks forward to connecting with ReStore staff and volunteers. Donna has learned about construction, creative projects, and environmental impact from the passionate ReStore team. And interacting with shoppers often makes her day. Recently, a young woman came in looking for a chandelier for her new home. Donna helped her find exactly what she was looking for at an affordable price.

By volunteering, Donna helps make the thriving, supportive community she envisions a reality. “It’s inspiring to be here. The staff has so many connections with local businesses and people, and they really have roots in the community,” she said. “It’s inspiring what people have done to make this store full of good things.”

If you’re looking for new volunteer opportunities and want to give back, consider joining Donna at ReStore! In her own words, it’s flexible and easy to get started—and each day is unique.