With Fiona Coughlin, Executive Director, Habitat for Humanity Windsor Essex “at the helm” the organization’s goal of opening one of the largest ReStores in Canada was accomplished at the end of May 2019 when the 22,000 sq. ft. Re-Store opened in Windsor. Photo by Dave Hall.
foot ReStore, which is the first in the world to be designed and built from the ground up with an Innovation Centre, Skills Lab and Youth Mentorship Hub at its operations core, Yet, that did not stop this ‘powerhouse’ as following this success, she flew 17 hours and joined Habitat for Humanity Kenya on a build in Nanyuki where she had the opportunity to learn from local leaders.” Coughlin reports “This experience has given me a deeper insight into the challenges of building with limited resources.” Since 1994, Habitat for Humanity Windsor-Essex has built 65 homes and provided a permanent solution to more than 370 individuals and families formerly in need of housing. Habitat ReStores are home and building supply stores that accept and resell quality new and used appliances, furniture and building materials to the public. “While there are many businesses in the salvage or resale market, ours has a tangible local
impact,” comments Coughlin. She stresses that eliminating poverty housing has always been their focus, and the ReStore is pivotal to achieving that goal. At Habitat, they have 18 staff and more than 500 volunteers. “We also support 200 youth trainees throughout the year as they learn hands-on skills in retail, customer service and in construction on the building site,” adds Coughlin. In 2019 she secured a significant grant and increased their capacity to salvage appliances and kitchens. In 2018, Coughlin spearheaded an effort to bring back the Windsor Furniture Bank through their ReStore. “Furniture Bank gift cards are distributed to partner organizations like the Welcome Centre, Hiatus House and Matthew House,” states Coughlin. “This service offers families in desperate need, access to furniture, free of charge.” With the ReStore raising significant funds, they now have the ability to go beyond single-home builds and restore whole communities. “My work at Habitat for Humanity is focused on neighbourhood renewal in core areas of need in Windsor,” she describes. Coughlin points out that in 2020, they also plan to launch a critical home repair program to assist seniors and veterans in retaining their homes. Always one to lend a helping hand in the local community, Coughlin sits on the City of Windsor Housing Advisory Committee and she is also the Past President of the Association of Fundraising Professionals
— Canada South Chapter. Learn more about the ReStore on: HabitatWindsor.org. Judges McVeety, Meehan and Fox abstained from voting due to conflicts.
9. “Artist Of The Year”
(Singer, painter, musician, sculptor, band, actor only.) *No authors, photographers or corporate entertainers could participate. The nominees are . . . €Asaph Maurer (Painter) AsaphMaurer.com, Windsor €Benjamin Doncom (Singer/Songwriter) Facebook.com/BjDoncom, Kingsville €Coffee House Combo (Jazz Band) CoffeeHouseCombo.ca, Windsor €Courtney Leigh, EVB Jewelry (Gemstone Jewellery Designer) EVBJewelry.etsy.com, Windsor €David Creed (Mural Painter) DCreed.ca, Harrow €David Derkatz, DERKZ Graffiti & Fine-Art (Multidisciplinary Artist) Facebook.com/DERKZart, Windsor
Thank you for
50
YEARS! In Windsor-Essex
& Chatham-Kent
“2019 Powerhouse Professional”
Reiner Neumann
“Distinguished Biz Champ Of The Year”
KELCOM
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50
Tecumseh 1695 Manning Rd. 519-735-5166
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YEARS
T H ANK YO U
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