North St. Louis County Habitat for Humanity

Dear neighbors,

Wearing a sweater and a smile, the Rev. Fred M. Rogers extolled kindness, self-confidence, and helpfulness during his decades-long television career.

“Whether we’re giving or receiving help, each one of us has something valuable to bring to this world,” Rogers once said. “That’s one of the things that connects us as neighbors.”

It’s not difficult to relate Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood to Habitat for Humanity. Rogers put God’s love into action by teaching young and old alike about being a good neighbor and how we can make each day special just by being ourselves. He believed in the value of all people regardless of appearance, belief, background, or ability.

On this International Volunteer Day, we extend that message to all North St. Louis County Habitat for Humanity volunteers—past, present, and yet to come. Your presence forms lasting connections in the communities we serve, and you have value no matter how you help.

At NSLCHFH’s home dedications, guests pass around a hammer before it is presented to homeowners. Executive Director Nathan Thompson invites each person to say “I helped build it” before passing on the hammer. In some way, big or small, everyone present helped turn the house into a home.

“Volunteers embody the best of humanity. On this important day, let’s draw inspiration from their example, and resolve to do our part to help shape a better world for all.”
—António Guterres, United Nations Secretary-General

You can help build a home! Yes, volunteers frame walls, hang doors, and install cabinets, but they can also serve meals at a build site or paint siding. Volunteers can prepare mailings that share our mission with readers who may feel called to donate their time, talents, or treasures. Indoor and outdoor opportunities are available year-round. We invite you to connect with your neighbors to give and receive help. You’ll meet new people, learn new skills, and help local families on their journey toward affordable homeownership.

I would love to get to know you and how your unique abilities can help neighbors in need. New volunteers are always welcome—we’ll find a task that works for you! If it’s been weeks, months, or even years, and you are ready to re-engage with Habitat, we’re always glad to have you back! Individuals, coworkers, friends, students, church groups, and others have all shared their time with us and our partner families. To find out when and how you can volunteer or to simply say hello, call me at 218-780-4594, or email tucker@nslchfh.org.

Your neighbor,
Tucker Nelson
Community Engagement Coordinator

Our volunteers say…

“I love that it is a day to learn new skills and help those in my community build a solid foundation for their home life.”
“I enjoy the ability to learn new skills without the expectation of being a professional. It is amazing how the will and drive of unskilled labor can make such a positive impact!”
“I wanted to get out of my comfort zone and help the community.”
“I love the Habitat for Humanity model and mission, and it was a pleasure to contribute to it by volunteering. I did it with a group of friends, and it was a wonderful experience.”

Volunteers at work