Habitat ReStore is the low cost DIY store that builds hope and homes. We help the local community to improve their homes for less, while also helping those in need around the world.
We asked our volunteer Lynn Bunting some questions, to find out what she loves about ReStore and why she continues to dedicate her time to Habitat.
Q: Why did you sign up to volunteer in ReStore?
A: I had been on Global village trips to Ghana, Hungary and Romania and Habitat's work appealed to me. I also liked the fact I was able to work in a DIY environment rather than a clothes shop.
Q: How long have you volunteered in the Lisburn ReStore?
A: Over 4 years now.
Q: What motivates you to keep coming back?
A: Habitat is my dedicated charity and so I enjoy being able to support them, however I have also made good friends here and enjoy the work I do.
Q: What skills, qualities or experience do you bring to ReStore?
A: I'm very personable and love to meet and talk to new people and dealing with the public. I also have a passion for DIY and home improvement.
Q: What's your favourite task?
A: I enjoy building the flat-pack furniture that comes in, as well as pricing and barcoding all our donations.
Q: What have you learned during your time at ReStore?
A: I've gotten lots of retail experience in ReStore, from till training to money-handling.
Q: What has surprised you about working in ReStore?
A: I'm always surprised at the number of people who will go out of their way to donate to us, and how popular the store has been.
Q: What's been your highlight so far?
A: The good friends and laughs I've had, as well as all the lovely bits of furniture I've bought for myself in store!
Q: What has challenged you at ReStore?
A: It can sometimes be difficult to have so many different personalities in the shop, from customers to volunteers. It's great however that ReStore is a place where we can all come together.
Q: Who is the most interesting person you've met in ReStore and why? (This can be a donor, customer, fellow volunteer or staff member.)
A: There is a volunteer who, once a month, comes all the way from Dublin to volunteer for the day. I find it so inspiring that he supports ReStore to such an extent. He is such a character and he's always doing something new and interesting- from making wine to building straw houses.
Q: What is the thing that inspires you most about Habitat's work?
A: I've always felt that building home for people and being able to give them the key to their new life is such an amazing thing. However it's the inclusive nature of Habitat that appeals to me most. There is no gender bias, and Habitat won't restrict women to making tea, they hand us a hammer the same as everyone else and I think that is truly inspiring.
