On Wednesday, April 17th, a dedicated group of ReEmployAbility employees embarked on a mission to support Habitat for Humanity’s efforts in their community. With a strong emphasis on volunteering and community engagement, ReEmployAbility encourages its employees to make a difference, offering each team member two days of paid time off for volunteering annually as part of their benefits package. This was an initiative that brought together employees across ReEmployAbility’s departments.
Volunteering in Action
The day began with enthusiasm as 19 employees from various departments of ReEmployAbility gathered to lend a helping hand. Their mission was to assist in setting up the Habitat for Humanity Restore, a thrift store that sells donated furniture and home goods at affordable prices, with proceeds supporting Habitat’s mission of providing decent and affordable housing.
With sleeves rolled up and hearts full of purpose, the ReEmployAbility team dove into their tasks, quickly dolling out assignments. They moved furniture, organized shelves, and transformed the Restore into a welcoming space, ready for its grand opening. Despite the physical demands of the work, the employees worked together seamlessly, fueled by their shared commitment to making a positive impact.
Community Impact
The Habitat for Humanity Restore plays a crucial role in supporting individuals and families in low socioeconomic standing by providing access to affordable furniture and home goods. Through their efforts, the ReEmployAbility team directly contributed to this mission, ensuring that members of their community have access to essential items to create a comfortable home. Through this fruitful partnership, ReEmployAbility was able to reaffirm Habitat for Humanity as a Transition2Work Nonprofit Partner. In this partnership, Habitat for Humanity stores throughout the Tampa Bay area will be able to offer light-duty opportunities for injured workers.
Reflections and Insights
For many employees, this volunteering experience was not only fulfilling but also served as an opportunity to bond with coworkers and strengthen the sense of camaraderie within the company. Tiffany, a ReEmployAbility associate in the Finance department who organized the event, expanded on the impact of the volunteer day: “Habitat for Humanity is very near and dear to my heart, so to have the opportunity to not only volunteer with them but also do it alongside my wonderful coworkers was amazing.”
Michelle, the Controller of ReEmployAbility, highlighted the significance of community service. “This volunteer initiative began with our accounting team and has evolved into a substantial effort, with a quarter of our employees contributing their time to a valuable organization and non-profit. The camaraderie at the latest ReStore location, as we prepared for its upcoming soft opening, was filled with determination, motivation, and inspiration. I feel privileged to have been a part of this experience and to collaborate with such an exceptional group of individuals.”
Company Values in Action
Volunteerism is deeply ingrained in ReEmployAbility’s company culture and identity. Through the Transition2Work program, which enables injured workers to participate in modified duty work while serving the community, the company is committed to making a difference both inside and outside the workplace. Furthermore, Transition2Work empowers injured individuals to recover faster while integrating employees back into their work-life post-injury. Director of IT Abby Torres expanded on the importance of volunteerism, stating: “At ReEmployAbility, volunteering isn’t just an activity; it’s the cornerstone of our mission. We recognize the benefits and profound impact of volunteerism not only on the communities and injured workers we serve, but also on our employees and ourselves.” Volunteerism benefits injured workers and creates a stronger workplace for ReEmployAbility employees, serving as a beacon of ReEmployAbility’s Mission and Core Values.
Highlighting Community and Teamwork
The volunteering experience at Habitat for Humanity Restore showcased the power of teamwork, compassion, and community engagement. As ReEmployAbility continues to prioritize making a positive impact, both through its business practices and its commitment to volunteerism, it stands as a beacon of hope and support in its community.
For more information on ReEmployAbility’s Transition2Work program and how you can submit a referral, visit the Transition2Work page.
ABOUT HABITAT FOR HUMANITY
Habitat for Humanity partners with people in your community, and all over the world, to help them build or improve a place they can call home. Habitat homeowners help build their own homes alongside volunteers and pay an affordable mortgage. With your support, Habitat homeowners achieve the strength, stability and independence they need to build a better life for themselves and for their families. Through our 2020 Strategic Plan, Habitat for Humanity will serve more people than ever before through decent and affordable housing. Visit their Restore website to find information on a Restore near you.
MORE REA IN THE COMMUNITY
- ReEmployAbility’s Lindsey Bressi Meets Up with Shamine Linton of Sharia’s Closet
- Injured Workers Love Transition2Work: Testimonials and Stories of Appreciation
- Empowering Women: ReEmployAbility Renews Corporate Sponsorship Commitment to “Handbags & Happy Hour” Fundraiser
- ReEmployAbility Participates in Relay for Life in Support of Co-Worker
- Embarking on a Voyage of Giving Back with Tampa Sailing Squadron Youth Sailing