Paying forward a life-changing opportunity
It was almost 40 years ago that Peter Luba purchased his own home in Philadelphia through a program similar to Habitat’s Home Buying program. Looking back, he is grateful to have been given the life-changing opportunity to provide a stable life for his family.
That’s one of the reasons he volunteers at the ReStore, Habitat’s discount home improvement store, where 100 percent of the proceeds are used to help hard-working families get decent, affordable homes.
“It’s really fulfilling knowing that the time I spend at the ReStore, ultimately creates the same homeownership possibilities for others that I had.”
Volunteering at the ReStore
He was donating several bathroom and kitchen appliances from his contracting business when Peter first learned about the opportunities to volunteer at the ReStore. Since then, he’s been a stable presence, on site at least 4 days a week, unloading large items that are delivered to the dock, and assisting with setting up other items to be sold throughout the store.
“Those are just some of the ways people can volunteer,” explains Peter Zappola, Director of ReStore operations. “You can work as a cashier, pick up donations, repair furniture, assist customers, sort donations and even decorate the store.”
Helping families that need it most
For Peter, being able to contribute to the lives of families that need it most is the spark that keeps his desire to serve burning brightly.
“I truly enjoy interacting with the other volunteers, shoppers, and the ReStore staff,” he says. “It’s always great to watch customers come in, look around and find the high quality items they need, and at such great prices.”
“We’re really grateful to Peter his outstanding commitment,’ says Executive Director Marianne Lynch, “We’re also very happy to have someone with such a compassionate and positive attitude on our ReStore volunteer team.”
