“You Get Back as Much as You Give”—Paul’s Volunteer Story

About 15 years ago, Paul was working as an orthopedic surgeon at Park Nicollet. When a group of coworkers invited him to attend a Twin Cities Habitat build day at a house in White Bear Lake, Paul decided to give it a try. He had such a positive experience that he started volunteering even more frequently.

Paul quipped that he was used to working with power tools as a surgeon, so using bigger, more powerful tools seemed like a natural next step. In fact, he was volunteering so often that two long-time Park Nicollet and HealthPartners physicians and Habitat volunteers, Randy and Jeff, suggested Paul become a volunteer site supervisor. He gladly took on the new role.

Now retired himself, Paul has been volunteering regularly ever since. He usually works with the Park Nicollet/Health Partners Regular Crew on sites all over the Twin Cities metro. He’s even worked on A Brush With Kindness projects in his own community of Roseville. Paul has also served with the Third Act Regular Crew.

By volunteering, Paul has learned many new skills: framing, flooring, cabinetry, painting, drywall, and more. But even more rewarding, he has connected with the Habitat community. He’s developed friendships with staff and other volunteers, and he’s seen firsthand the difference homeownership can make.

“The more I learn about Habitat, the more I’m convinced that more people need to know about it,” he said. Paul demonstrates the many ways to support Habitat, both on and off site. He and his wife are also frequent visitors at the New Brighton ReStore, where they find materials for furniture restoration projects. By shopping at ReStore, they’re supporting Habitat's work across the Twin Cities in another way.

Paul's involvement at The Heights in St. Paul during the 2024 Carter Work Project perfectly captured why he is passionate about volunteering. Hearing Juanita, a Habitat homeowner, speak during a morning program emphasized the importance of a safe, stable home. For Paul, that’s what it’s all about: helping others achieve their dreams.

“The Carter Work Project was truly moving. I couldn’t believe how many people were there and how organized and impactful it was,” he said. “I’m excited to keep working on The Heights during the next five years.”

“I’m motivated by the ability to do something good for society, interact with others, and learn new things,” Paul said. “It’s rewarding to see a house go from a concrete foundation to be ready for a family to move in. You get as much back as you give.”

If you’re thinking of volunteering for the first time, Paul recommends giving it a shot.

“Most people are nervous for their first day on site,” he explains, “but I’ve never heard anyone say they don’t want to come back. You might just surprise yourself by what you can accomplish.”