For Immediate Release
October 6, 2025

EDMONTON, ALBERTA – Habitat for Humanity Edmonton marked World Habitat Day by hosting a Volunteer Gala this evening at the Chateau Louis, celebrating the dedication of more than 150 volunteers whose time and energy drive Habitat’s work across the region.

World Habitat Day, recognized by the United Nations every year on the first Monday of October, calls attention to the state of our towns and cities and to the basic right of everyone to adequate shelter.

The evening included speeches from community leaders, homeowners, and long-time volunteers, followed by an award ceremony honouring standout volunteers who have gone above and beyond in their service.

“World Habitat Day is a reminder that the way we plan and build our cities directly affects the quality of life of its residents. Habitat for Humanity Edmonton is committed to building homeownership opportunities for hard-working Albertans and to supporting a strong and stable future in our province. Today we celebrate our many volunteers who dedicate their time to drive the work we do forward. We are profoundly grateful for their service and the lasting impact they have in our community — building homes, communities, and hope for generations to come.”
– Dr. Ann-Marie Reddy, President & CEO, Habitat for Humanity Edmonton

A key highlight of the evening was the recognition of Servus Credit Union, the official sponsor of Habitat Edmonton’s volunteer program. Servus has generously contributed $50,000 from 2023 – 2025 to ensure that volunteers are trained, supported, and celebrated for their essential roles.

“At Servus Credit Union, we believe strong communities are built when people come together to support one another. Volunteerism is at the heart of that, and we are proud to partner with Habitat to empower volunteers who are making a meaningful difference in people’s lives and helping create safe, stable homes for families.”
– Stephanie MacMillan, Business Development Manager, Servus Credit Union

Also in attendance was Rakhi Pancholi, MLA for Edmonton-Whitemud, who shared remarks on the importance of community-driven efforts to strengthen neighbourhoods.

“There is no better antidote to feelings of disconnection than to get out and volunteer. As a lifelong volunteer myself, I know how much purpose, joy, and satisfaction it brings. It’s why I am proud to join Habitat for Humanity Edmonton in celebrating their amazing volunteers. These volunteers understand that making our community a better place is a responsibility we all share, and I’m proud to celebrate them for that.”

– Rakhi Pancholi, MLA for Edmonton-Whitemud

Habitat homeowner Allison Asare, a single mother of two, spoke at the event, sharing her journey to homeownership and thanking the volunteers whose dedication made it possible.

“You haven’t just changed my life and the lives of my children — you’ve shown us the power of a community that lifts each other up. That gift of hope is something we will carry with us forever.”
– Allison Asare, Habitat homeowner

Finally, the gala recognized longtime volunteer Reno Laseur, who received the King’s Coronation Medal earlier this year for his dedicated service to Habitat Edmonton. Reno also spoke at the event, reflecting on his years of volunteering:

“I tell almost everyone I meet that I am a proud volunteer at Habitat for Humanity… The good people at Habitat always make me feel welcome and appreciated.”
– Reno Laseur, longtime volunteer

The evening closed with gratitude for the countless volunteers whose dedication ensures Habitat can continue to build homes, communities, and hope across northern Alberta.

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Media inquiries, please contact:

Afarin Mirzadeh
communications@hfh.org
cell: 604-363-4077

About Habitat for Humanity Edmonton

Habitat for Humanity Edmonton builds homes, communities, and hope through affordable homeownership. It is the only charity in the region that provides a path to homeownership for hard-working people who have been shut out of the market. Habitat Edmonton is not social housing and does not give away homes — it empowers Albertans to purchase and own their homes, creating stability and generational change.

Habitat Edmonton also operates six ReStores in Edmonton and surrounding communities. ReStores are nonprofit home improvement stores that sell new and gently used furniture, appliances, building materials, and more. Proceeds from ReStores directly support Habitat’s charitable work, so every purchase and donation contributes to making homeownership more accessible in northern Alberta.

For more information, visit hfh.org.