Meet CORE Construction Volunteer: Bruce Alexander

Meet Bruce Alexander, a longtime volunteer with Iowa Valley Habitat for Humanity's construction team. Bruce has been a staple of our build sites for many years, making significant contributions to our construction crew. We recently caught up with Bruce to discuss his experience volunteering with our organization.

Bruce and his wife, Mary, are long-time IVHFH supporters.

What year did you start volunteering with Iowa Valley Habitat for Humanity?
1992. I was fortunate to be part of the original all volunteer group.

What is your favorite memory with IVHFH?
After 35 years with IVHFH, that is a pretty tough question. I make memories each week that I work with family members, the construction managers, and the other volunteers.

If you could give any advice to any new volunteers or individuals who are on the fence about volunteering, what would you tell them?
This is what I tell every new volunteer I work with: even though you believe you don't have any skills related to building a home, Habitat will find a place for you to participate and learn. It is a great environment to find out all the parts of the process, including learning to use power tools, if that is something you want to learn. No pressure.

What drives you to continue to volunteer with us?
This is easy. First, it is building safe, affordable homes along with future homeowners. Working with the IVHFH staff in general and building on site with Christy and Chris along with new and old(er) volunteers is a treat. I have made new friends along the way.

Is there anything else you would like to share?
I have been fortunate to attend four Jimmy Carter work builds in Georgia, Alabama, Michigan, and California. At the Los Angeles build, I had breakfast with Jimmy and Rosalynn as they sat across the table from me. So, I can say that I have had breakfast with a President and First Lady.

Thank you, Bruce, for all of your hard work and dedication to Iowa Valley Habitat for Humanity! We are so thankful for the countless hours you have dedicated to our organization over the years! You have helped change the lives of numerous families!

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