Jen Shafer
October's featured volunteer is Jennifer (Jen) Shafer. Jen has worked with East Bay Habitat since 1998. She is a renaissance volunteer, moving from construction to participating in two committees to chairing one of those committees. Jen has completed 105 construction hours and is currently the co-chair of the Family Resource Committee (FRC). The FRC provides support and resources to partner families to empower them to build and sustain their homes and communities. When Jen isn't working hard for EBH, she is a Research Analyst for Kaiser Permanente. In her spare time, she likes to hike in the Bay Area, go to the movies and the theater, and hang out with her friends.
Here's what some of our staff had to say about Jen:Patti Wang, Development & Marketing Associate, said, "Jen is always willing to lend a hand, whether the task is big or small, fun or unforgiving. She's dependable, caring, and committed to our mission."According to Kim Ota, Homeowner Relations Program Specialist, "Jen is one of the most enthusiastic and dedicated volunteers that I have worked with." Kim continues, "One of the things I admire most about Jen is the thoughtful consideration and emphasis she gives to listening to the feedback and ideas of our homeowners."Michael Cross, Community Development Specialist, says, "Jen understands that realizing the mission of East Bay Habitat takes 1 percent inspiration and 99 percent perspiration. Whether it's pounding nails, raising money, or registering new voters, Jen has always taken on new responsibilities at Habitat with dedication and enthusiasm."
Here's what Tony Kam, former board member and volunteer who works with Jen on the FRC, had to say about Jen:"Jen is like the caffeine in your cappuccino-- you might not notice how foamy, or how smooth it is, but it is the key that you couldn't do without -- working quietly, diligently, and beautifully on the background.
I was building with her at the Crockett Build-a-thon a couple of years ago. Early in the morning, she made the unfortunate error of mistaking her thumb fpr a nail. A scream and a dash of red later, she rushed off to the first-aid box. About 5 minutes later, she was back at it, albeit a bit gingerly, swinging the hammer again. That's the Jen I know. Dedicated, indomitable, inspiring, and a bit stubborn. She is also absolutely lovely. By the way, if she were in the form of a cappuccino, she would be one that is most delicious, organic, and fair trade from your neighborhood coffee shop."
Read about Jen's involvement with EBH in her own words...
How did you first get involved with East Bay Habitat?I learned about the organization many years ago but it wasn't until I graduated from college and moved to the Bay Area that I was able to volunteer. I first got involved on site at 105th in 1998, and a few years later I got involved with the Family Resource and Family Selection committees.
What is your current role and level of involvement with EBH?
After many years on site, 2.5 years with the Family Resource Committee and a brief stint on the Family Selection Committee, I am currently co-chairing the Family Resource Committee and volunteering on site when I can.
What motivates you to continue with East Bay Habitat?
EBH families, staff and volunteers are an amazing group of dedicated people who share a common goal. It's obvious if you look at all the long-term committee and site volunteers. The FRC members in particular have tremendous energy and ideas, and they keep me going. I am also excited about the community development focus the organization has taken.
What have been your most memorable experiences?
The FRC sponsored a block party at the 105th Avenue site last summer, and a homeowner from that development, Linda Jackson, organized children in drill teams to perform. Seeing her involvement in the organizing and planning of the party, and then seeing kids perform that day, was wonderful. Helping out with the College Trak Young Entrepreneurs Summer Program this year was a lot of fun and I also have a great time at all the build-a-thons! I love knowing how to use more power tools than my dad.
What are the benefits of becoming involved with East Bay Habitat?
The benefit of becoming involved in EBH, to me, is to help families who might not otherwise have the opportunity to attain the goal of homeownership in the ridiculously overpriced Bay Area.
What should prospective individuals do if they are thinking about getting involved with EBH?
Prospective volunteers should consider attending a site tour or going to a Build-a-Dream breakfast. These events provide insight into the organization and its benefits to families, and introduce numerous opportunities for how to volunteer with East Bay Habitat.
