Home & Garden Michael McIntyre

How did you get started in this I became familiar with fundraising and construction project management work when I was involved with building a new gymnasium and teen center for Perrysburg Heights Community Center. Soon after that, this position for Maumee Valley Habitat for Humanity opened up. I have been in awe of Habitat

What is your most requested item Unfortunately, the need for affordable housing is greater than the ability to serve this community for all our affordable housing programs. The most requested need for support is for families wanting to purchase a home through our homeownership program. While the need is great, we attempt to serve as many desiring families as possible. How do you spend your time when you’re not working? The next generation of McIntyres is growing quickly. I love to spend time with my five grandchildren, all ages five and under. There’s never a dull

What’s one thing people should know about your business? While Habitat for Humanity makes homes affordable with a 0% interest mortgage, Habitat for Humanity does not give homes away for free.

As you think about your business, what are you most proud of? We are changing lives on a daily basis by providing homeownership opportunities, and home preservation like Roof Replacement and Home Rehab upgrades. When homeowners state that this never would have been possible without Habitat, our staff and our many volunteers that made it possible, our days all shine a little brighter.

The space we call home is filled with myriad possibilities and one challenge we all face is how to best make that space meet our lifestyle needs while reflecting a sense of design and decor that best states who we are. It’s often easier said than done. That’s why it’s nice to know we have the option of consulting those folks that can help us find those answer. Here are a few of the people and businesses in our area who can offer the inspiration and ideas you need when you are looking to change the space around you.

What is one small change people can make to their garden/home that would create a big impact? I’m exploring planting my garden this year with heirloom seeds for better results. I’ll have to let you know my results at harvest time.

What garden/home modifications are becoming increasingly popular for seniors? Paddle light switches let you turn lights on and off with ease.

Where do you see your business in 5 years? In addition to our ReStore in Maumee, I see a second store serving Toledo. This will create greater awareness of our programs, and allow us to serve even more families with affordable housing solutions. That’s a wonderful thought for me. What is the one piece of advice that most changed your life? The phrase that always resonates with me is, “Whether you think you can, or you think you can’t, you are right.” The world would be a better place if… ? Everyone had a decent place to live.