While shopping at ReStore, you might run into Ogo. Whether you’re looking to purchase a much-needed item or searching for a unique piece, Ogo will stop at nothing to help you find what you’re looking for. Twice a week, this dedicated volunteer spends her time labelling items, stocking shelves, and of course, helping customers.
Ogo discovered ReStore last year while searching for employment opportunities. A staff member at an employment center recommended that she volunteer, which would help improve her resume and give her something to do in her spare time. Although she knew little about Habitat for Humanity, and even less about ReStore, Ogo gave volunteering a try. In just a few days she was hooked.
ReStore’s values align with Ogo’s, and it’s for that reason she chooses to spend much of her time there. She believes in providing a helping hand to those in need and loves giving her time to do so. Ogo says her time at ReStore has taught her the value of volunteering, and even after she has a full-time job, she will continue to donate her time. In fact, Ogo’s entire week is spent volunteering, and when not at ReStore she can be found volunteering at the Hope Mission on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays.
Ogo also likes to spend time at ReStore because of the people. She says the other volunteers, staff, and managers are all kind and supportive, and have even offered to be a reference when searching for jobs. In addition to staff and volunteers, Ogo enjoys helping customers find items. She sees all kinds of people at ReStore, and especially likes helping women in construction search for items they might need.
Soon, Ogo will get married, and she is looking forward to moving to Japan to complete her PhD. Although our time with her is limited, we are forever grateful to Ogo for volunteering at ReStore.
