Luke Liem 
Luke's dedication and heart for Habitat is evident through his actions. Luke logged over 150 hours of volunteer service working on our Fremont and Crockett construction sites. That is awesome! Luke is so much fun to work with, he has a wonderful sense of humor and a great attitude. It is a delight to see Luke come on site with a smile and a box of donuts for the other volunteers to start theday!
How long have you been with East Bay Habitat?
Since October 2001... and I have never been the same.
What bought you to Habitat?
Its reputation as the fastest growing non-profit organization, and its mission to provide low-cost housing to responsible low-income homeowners. I do not believe in free handouts because it ultimately leads to the wrong set of behaviors amongst the recipients. Habitat’s careful selection of responsible homeowners and its insistence on sweat equity make the organization effective and worthy of support.
What motivates you to continue to volunteer with Habitat?
The excellent AmeriCorps staff and the socializing after the end of each workday.
If you could be any tool on the construction site what tool would you be?
When I first started volunteering, I used the hammer a lot. Hammering is my forte. But soon, I realize I am spending most of my time correcting mistakes made by previous volunteers. Now I like using the measure tape and the balance, so that there will be more accurate measurements and fewer mistakes.
What is your favorite job on site and/or favorite aspect of being on a committee?
On site, I love getting on the roof or the scaffolding. I have always enjoyed rock climbing and height appeals to me. I am also volunteering on the Family Resource Committee. I am on one team that is responsible for the quarterly newsletter and another team that is putting together a financial planning workshop for existing homeowners. I enjoy the fact that I am working with really smart and responsible people, who are volunteering their time to serve a common cause.
