Bob and Corinne Ferris have spent more than a decade contributing to Twin Cities Habitat - for more reasons than one. What spurred their initial interest was the difficult loss of a dear friend, Keith McAmis. Keith passed away from cancer.

“I met Keith met as college freshmen, studying electrical engineering. Over the years, Keith developed a passion for craftsmanship and volunteered alongside his daughter on Habitat for Humanity projects,” said Bob. “Building and sponsoring a home in his honor seemed the most appropriate way to memorialize Keith’s life.”

Bob and Corinne worked with Keith’s daughter, Nicole, to arrange a week of building in honor of her father’s honor. As a result, 18 of Keith’s friends and family joined on-site in Anoka, Minnesota. Keith’s brother and nephew even came from Colorado to volunteer in Keith’s honor.

“The volunteer experience was one I’ll never forget. Everyone involved found it to be a very rewarding activity. All of us were very inspired and hopefully inspired to volunteer again,” said Bob and Corinne.

In addition to the fulfilling volunteer experience Bob and Corinne enjoy, they also share how they chose to support the initiatives of Twin Cities Habitat.

“First, we considered how effective the charity is in using our money, and above all, the organization must have a sincere desire to help others. Second, the organization must make a long-term investment in people. Third, we choose charities that provide a volunteer opportunity, which really allows us to be invested in their mission,” said Bob and Corinne.

Bob and Corinne mention that in addition to the obvious loss of housing, the volunteer spirit of Habitat is a great asset for the community. “Volunteerism pulls individuals, corporations, and congregations together to share resources and time for the betterment of the community,” said Bob and Corinne.

Bob and Corinne feel lucky to be at a place in their life where they can be generous. For
them, having the opportunity to donate time and money makes them feel good. They believe they are accomplishing something good for the community and that people who are not giving back are really missing out.

“We give to Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity because stable housing is a foundational element to creating healthy families and communities; much like other missions we support, such as education, hunger, and disease prevention.”