Gerry and Carolyn Keener first got involved with Habitat for Humanity when they saw an ad in the paper for an organization that helps rebuild communities. Once they found out how to become involved with Habitat, Gerry and Carolyn began volunteering at build sites throughout the country.
“[It] was something in our own community we could do, to be helpful,” remarked 80-year-old Carolyn.
Gerry, who was an elementary school principal for 27 years, agrees. “With Habitat, you have a reason to be there, and you have great fun, and meet such wonderful, committed people,” he added.
The Keeners have successfully helped build homes for families in 15 different states, including Alaska and Hawaii, and have visited 5 different countries to assist with builds, including the Philippines and South Korea. Gerry and Carolyn have been volunteering at Habitat Tucson for the past 23 years and have no plans of leaving anytime soon.
“We’re all kind of missionaries,” says Carolyn. “We’re not only giving, we’re empowering others.”
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There are no words to describe the feeling they have when it comes to helping others. The Keeners gain excitement when they see the difference they have made in local communities.
“Home is a place to return to…for occasions, for celebrations, for family,” Carolyn says. “Home is something besides just a building.”
To this day, you can still find Gerry volunteering at the HabiStore. He has spent the past 12 years helping out the store in a variety of ways, whether that be handling the cash register or assisting in the paint equipment department.
“We’re all kind of missionaries,” says Carolyn. “We’re not only giving, we’re empowering others.”