Take Me Home! A Message from Chair Emeritus Nash Shaikh

Nash Shaikh is Chair Emeritus of the Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity Board of Directors. We're immensely grateful for Nash's leadership, enthusiasm, and advocacy as Board Chair. As we celebrate a month of thanking our supporters—we call it Thankuary—Nash reflects on what motivates and inspires her to support Habitat's mission.

Guest blog by Nash Shaikh

Close to midnight, as I walked back from the railway station, the night was still and filled with an eerie silence. Suddenly, I heard footsteps echoing behind me. The road was shrouded in darkness, not a soul in sight. Usually, I'd turn around ready to defend myself, but tonight, an inexplicable chill ran down my spine. My instincts kicked in and I quickened my pace, almost breaking into a run, the footsteps matching my speed. My thoughts raced. God, please take me home! As I neared my house, I dashed inside, bolted the door, and just like that, the footsteps faded into nothingness. That night, nestled safely in my bed, I couldn't help but feel immense gratitude for having a sanctuary called home. My heart ached for those who lack this basic security. I vowed to dedicate myself to empowering women by educating them about the importance of being educated and investing in a home—a sanctuary that offers safety and long-term wealth.

Fast forward to 2021, when the chance to join a board came my way. I didn't hesitate in choosing Habitat for Humanity. Do we build homes at Habitat? Yes, but we do more than that. We construct futures, health, equity, and dreams! As Chair of the Habitat for Humanity board, I had the honor of participating in our largest build yet through the Carter Work Project. This experience allowed me to connect with numerous homeowners who shared their heartfelt stories of homeownership. Their tales reaffirmed what Habitat stands for—creating a healthier future and building equity of wealth.

If you seek to partner with a mission-driven organization dedicated to forging a better future, join Habitat. And if you're already part of this mission, know that your efforts are making a remarkable impact! Each story of homeownership I hear takes me back to that breathless night and the profound relief of being home—I am grateful beyond measure that Habitat is helping so many find their way home!