When someone gives generously of their time and energy for decades, recognition feels more than deserved — it feels necessary.
Reno Laseur, a long-time volunteer with Habitat for Humanity Edmonton, was recently awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal — an honour given to Canadians who have made significant contributions to their communities. Reno is one of just three Habitat Edmonton volunteers to receive this award.
Since 2003, Reno has been involved with Habitat, first in Calgary and later in Edmonton, where he became a fixture on the Carter Place build and at multiple ReStore locations. He’s known for his reliability, kindness, and practical know-how — and for always being ready to lend a hand, whether it’s helping customers troubleshoot a power tool or constructing new shelving displays at a store.
We asked Reno to answer a few questions to help more people get to know the man behind the medal. True to form, he took the time to answer each one in his own words.
What do you currently do when volunteering with us?
I volunteer at the Restore inspecting and testing all manner of appliances, lights, and tools. I have also recently helped building shelves and slot wall displays at Sherwood Park, South and Leduc stores.What is your history of volunteering with Habitat?
In 2019 I moved to Edmonton and had the opportunity to help complete the houses at Habitat Carter Place, and met a lot of very dedicated volunteers and very enthusiastic new homeowners. When that project ended, I started volunteering at the Restores and truly found my passion helping customers discover affordable solutions.What’s your favourite memory of volunteering with us?
At Carter Place we were tasked with building the retaining walls around the playground and filling them with sand. The kids were all lined up on the sidewalk watching us and repeatedly asking when the playground would be ready. About one week later, we had the grand opening of the playground and it was a special moment as the kids streamed onto the equipment.Why do you volunteer at Habitat?
I have always admired Habitat’s great reputation for helping people.When did you start volunteering with Habitat?
In 2003, while living in Calgary, the company I worked for sponsored annual team builds that I really enjoyed.Describe the values that guide your decision to where you volunteer your time.
I have a need to be both challenged and physically active. The fine people at Habitat always make me feel welcome and appreciated. For me, this is a winning combination.What impact do you believe that Habitat is having on our community? How so?
In talking with our new homeowners there is no doubt in my mind that we are helping make a significant change to their family circumstances and enabling them to also become a vital part of our community.What impact do you believe your volunteering is having on Habitat?
When I started volunteering at the Habitat Restores, Hank Fast took the time to explain their history and how important they are to our future fundraising efforts, so that we can build more homes. I try to lead by his example and make helpful suggestions on how the Restore could be doing better.What factors are important to you about a charity or cause you choose to support?
Charities that want to give a hand up promoting independence.What do you wish others knew about Habitat?
There are many ways to be involved depending on your skills and interests. I encourage volunteers to give Habitat a try. I know they will enjoy it.Do you have a story you’d like to share?
While volunteering on my first build, I met a retired gentleman who obviously loved volunteering with Habitat. When I asked why, he told me because he was able to meet some of the most interesting and charitable people in the community. I decided that very day that when I retired, I wanted to be just like him.What’s your favourite part of volunteering?
I really enjoy helping our new homeowners with advice on how they can make repairs and improvements to their homes.What do you do in your spare time?
I enjoy learning to play the drums, pace-walking, playing chess, making sourdough bread, self-managing my retirement investments, undertaking home improvements, and visiting with family and friends.Anything else?
This is the second medal I have received for my volunteer work. In 2018 I was honoured with the Governor-General Sovereign Medal for helping the Fort McMurray Heritage Village rebuild after a devastating flood. If you are ever in the area, it is quite a jewel.
If you’re inspired by Reno’s story and want to learn more about volunteering with Habitat, visit our Volunteer page!
