program - Habitat for Humanity

NOV. 1–3, 2013 | HABITAT.ORG/YOUTHPROGRAMS | #YLC2013 | @HABITATYOUTH
PROGRAM
NOV. 1–3, 2013 | HABITAT.ORG/YOUTHPROGRAMS | #YLC2013 | @HABITATYOUTH
HABITAT.ORG/YOUTHPROGRAMS
HYATT REGENCY CRYSTAL CITY
2799 JEFFERSON DAVIS HIGHWAY
ARLINGTON, VA. 22202
4
WELCOME
Welcome to the 2013 Youth Leadership Conference.
As we wrapped up our 25th anniversary this spring,
our team began brainstorming ways to usher in
the next 25 years of Habitat youth engagement.
We asked lots of questions, debated what matters most to millennials and future generations,
and wrote down a lot of buzzwords that embodied what we were trying to accomplish.
It’s easy to take an apathetic approach when
discussing poverty and housing issues. But this
year’s theme, “Constructive Discontent,” aims to
give you the tools to correct the problems in our
broken world.
What do you see that’s wrong with the world,
and how can you change it?
Solutions start with open eyes and accepting
gritty imperfections and uncomfortable truths. This
weekend, we’ll let go of idealism and discuss the
reality of our discontent with the world around us.
Our world is full of wrong and injustice, but
we have lots of love and hope to share. Being
constructive is recognizing the tension between
“what is” and “what should be” and doing
something about it. Constructive Discontent
should motivate you. It should motivate others. It
should be a catalyst for change.
At Habitat, we’re discontented by living in a
world where too many of our peers and neighbors live in unsafe homes that don’t offer basic
shelter from such ordinary occurrences as rain.
We believe that no one should have to call inadequate shelter his or her home. We want to live
in a world where everyone has a decent place
to live. It’s why we build.
As you network and learn over the next three
days, think about what makes you discontent.
We hope you’ll leave here constructively discontent, energized and ready to mobilize your peers
to make a constructive, long-term impact on
poverty housing.
Have a great weekend!
Habitat for Humanity International youth initiatives
1
TABLE OF CONTENTS
WELCOME 1
HABITAT AND SPONSORS 3
YOUTH LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE 2013 SCHEDULE 4
SPECIAL EVENTS 5
MEET THE SPEAKERS 7
WORKSHOP DESCRIPTIONS 15
MEET OUR STAFF 21
HOTEL MAP 26
SPECIAL THANKS 28
2
ABOUT HABITAT AND ITS SUPPORTERS
HABITAT FOR HUMANITY INTERNATIONAL
Habitat for Humanity International is a nonprofit,
ecumenical Christian housing ministry that
envisions a world where everyone has a decent
place to live. Habitat’s mission seeks to put
God’s love into action to bring people together to
build homes, communities and hope.
HABITAT FOR HUMANITY YOUTH INITIATIVES
We seek to mobilize passionate young people
so that our next generation won’t have to know
poverty housing. Through our mission of lifelong
service, we empower youth leaders through
campus chapters, Collegiate Challenge, Learn
and Build Experience, Habitat Young Professionals, AmeriCorps Alumni Association, Youth
United and other service-learning partnerships.
Participation in these programs makes you a
part of a radical movement to not only raise
awareness about Habitat for Humanity’s mission,
but also give peers a decent, affordable place to
live. Habitat for Humanity youth initiatives is part
of the Volunteer Mobilization department in the
Volunteer and Institutional Engagement division
at HFHI.
STV
STV is an award-winning, professional firm
offering engineering, architectural, planning,
environmental and construction management
services. STV consistently ranks among the
country’s top 25 firms in education, corrections,
highways, bridges, rail and mass transit. STV’s
professional, technical and support personnel
offer services to a broad and ever-expanding client base. STV provides planning, environmental,
design, program and construction management,
and specialty services for the transportation,
design-build, institutional and commercial
building, advanced technology, industrial, and
defense markets. An employee-owned firm,
STV marked its 100th anniversary in 2012. STV is
proud to support Habitat for Humanity as part of
its 100-year anniversary celebration.
STATE FARM
Habitat for Humanity International is grateful for
State Farm’s generous support. State Farm is the
corporate sponsor of Habitat’s youth initiatives
and underwrote this conference.
ABOUT STATE FARM
State Farm and its affiliates are the largest providers of car insurance in the U.S. and are one of
the leading insurers in Canada. In addition to providing auto insurance quotes, their 18,000 agents
and more than 65,000 employees serve 81 million
policies and accounts – more than 79 million
auto, home, life and health policies in the United
States and Canada, and nearly 2 million bank accounts. Commercial auto insurance, along with
coverage for renters, business owners, boats
and motorcycles, is also available. State Farm
Mutual Automobile Insurance Co. is the parent of
the State Farm family of companies. State Farm
is ranked No. 44 on the Fortune 500 list of largest
companies. For more information, please visit
statefarm.com or in Canada at statefarm.ca.
3
YOUTH LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE 2013
The information table in the
Independence Foyer will
be staffed throughout the
conference. Have an emergency? Call 229-815-0380.
Note: Don’t forget to change
your clock Saturday night.
Daylight saving time returns
to standard time at 2 a.m. local time. Turn clocks back by
one hour, ideally at bedtime
on Saturday.
FRIDAY, NOV. 1
Noon-5 p.m.
Pre-conference registration
Independence Foyer
Noon-8 p.m.
Registration
Independence Foyer
2-6 p.m.
Networking
Independence Foyer
2-10 p.m.
Exhibit Hall open
Independence Ballroom
6-8 p.m.
Keynote with Mandy McCulley and Jose Quinonez
Regency Ballroom
8-10 p.m.
Habilympics
Washington A and B
“Briars in the Cotton Patch” and “Do the Math”
Theater
8 a.m.-4 p.m.
Registration
Independence Foyer
8 a.m.- 6 p.m.
Exhibit Hall open
Independence Ballroom
8-9 a.m.
Breakfast plenary with Regina Best and Susan Yow
Regency Ballroom
9:15-10:45 a.m.
Session I (See page 15 for details.)
Breakout rooms
11 a.m.-noon
Session II (See page 16 for details.)
Breakout rooms
12:15-1:30 p.m.
Advocacy panel moderatedby Mark Andrews
Regency Ballroom
1:45-2:45 p.m.
Session III (See page 17 for details.)
Breakout rooms
2:50-3:30 p.m.
Session IV: Meet and share (See page 18 for details.)
Breakout rooms
3:45-4:15 p.m.
Group photo
Regency Ballroom
6-8 p.m.
State Farm celebration dinner keynote with Jake and
Simone Bernstein, founders of VolunTEEN Nation
Regency Ballroom
8-10 p.m.
Construction Challenge
Washington A and B
D.C. tours
Main lobby
SATURDAY, NOV. 2
SUNDAY, NOV. 3
4
8-8:45 a.m.
Closing breakfast plenary with Justin Gerstner
Regency Ballroom
9-10 a.m.
Session V (See page 18 for details.)
Breakout rooms
10-11:45 a.m.
Session VI (See page 19 for details.)
Breakout rooms
SPECIAL EVENTS
FRIDAY
CAPITOL HILL TOURS, NOON-5 P.M.,
INDEPENDENCE FOYER
Start your trip to D.C. with a bang as we head
straight for Capitol Hill, the kitchen of policymaking. Staff members will be available after the
tour to discuss the inner workings of Congress
and give tips on how to engage your elected officials in advocacy. Registration is required.
NETWORKING, 2-6 P.M., INDEPENDENCE FOYER
Meet and network with conference participants
from across the country. Don’t forget to explore
exhibits, share your Habitat story on video and
have your picture taken in our photo booth.
HABITAT STORE, 2-6 P.M., INDEPENDENCE
BALLROOM
The No. 1 place to buy the latest Habitat swag
returns to the Exhibit Hall. Yes, we take plastic.
You can shop all day Saturday, too.
WELCOME PLENARY, 6-8 P.M., REGENCY
BALLROOM
We’ll continue networking throughout dinner, but
be prepared to become involved in some intense
conversations. Dinner will include such topics
as neighborhoods, innovation and advocacy.
Our speaker, Mandy Elm McCulley, began her
Habitat volunteer experience at age 10 as a
homeowner youth in Story City, Iowa. She will
share her story of the impact of service. Our
favorite man from Ohio, Jose Quinonez, will join
her to discuss why advocating for housing is
essential in today’s society.
HABILYMPICS, 8 P.M., WASHINGTON A AND B
It’s back! Trivia, hammering contests, weird
HAZMAT suits and logo painting.
“BRIARS IN THE COTTON PATCH” AND “DO
THE MATH,” 8-10 P.M., THEATER
Koinonia Farm celebrated its 76th anniversary
this year. Watch an updated version about the
beginnings of Habitat. At 9 p.m. we will unveil
“Do The Math,” a short film about the rising
movement to change the climate crisis and challenge the fossil fuel industry.
ADVERTISEMENT
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And your Global Village experience is about
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There is still time to book your spring
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Global Village offers a great fundraising
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When your students serve together on a
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Visit habitat.org/gv or email GV@habitat.org
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5
SATURDAY
BREAKFAST PLENARY 8-9 A.M., REGENCY
BALLROOM
Whether you’re supporting housing issues
abroad or helping a peer who is homeless, this
session will showcase the many ways that your
volunteer time helps others. Regina Best, AmeriCorps alumna, and Susan Yow, HFHI’s affiliate
tithe director, will lead this session.
ADVOCACY PANEL, 12:15-1:30 P.M., REGENCY
BALLROOM
We know why housing issues matter, and how a
roof and a clean floor affect so much in life. But
what are you going to do to make sure others have
access to them? HFHI staff members and Service
Nation join us to show you how to cut past the red
tape and change policy in your community.
MEET AND SHARE SESSION, 2:45-3:30 P.M.,
BREAKOUT ROOMS (PAGE 18)
In this new session, you’re the expert! Share your
successes and unravel your challenges. Choose
a session that is an area of your expertise or one
that you would like to learn more about.
GROUP PHOTO, 3:45 P.M., REGENCY BALLROOM
Wear your conference T-shirt.
STATE FARM CELEBRATION DINNER, 6-8 P.M.,
REGENCY BALLROOM
Enjoy a formal dinner as we celebrate 2013’s
milestones with State Farm representative
Heather Paul. We’ll announce the winner of the
2013 YLC Film Fest and get a life lesson in “going
for it” from Simone and Jake Bernstein, founders of VolunTEEN Nation.
Dinner attire is business casual; khakis, skirts or
dresses are appropriate.
CONSTRUCTION CHALLENGE, 8 P.M.,
WASHINGTON A AND B
Do you have what it takes to make a safe,
decent house out of cardboard and construction
paper? Bring your best ideas, and may the best
design win.
D.C. TOURS 8-10 P.M., MAIN LOBBY
Local student leaders will guide participants
through the best parts of historic Washington.
Please remember to bring Metro fare and your
cell phone for Snapchat selfies. Participants
under age 18 must have a chaperone present.
HELP HABITAT
BUILD LOUDER!
• You can tell your legislators about housing issues that affect affordable housing
by taking action at habitat.org/takeaction.
Ask your elected officials to improve
water programs for the world’s poor
and encourage them to support critical
affordable housing resources today.
• Encourage others to take action to
support affordable housing. Share on
your social media channels the calls to
action found at habitat.org/takeaction.
• Join hundreds of advocates on Capitol
Hill in support of safe, affordable housing worldwide. Register at habitat.org/
habitatonthehill for Habitat on the Hill,
Habitat for Humanity’s annual legislative conference Feb. 11-13, 2014.
• Build, learn and advocate for better
shelter by going on a Build Louder
advocacy Global Village trip. Email
advocacy@habitat.org to find out how.
• Participate in Act! Speak! Build! Week,
April 6 –12. Act! Speak! Build! Week is
a student-led week that expands the
scope of Habitat’s mission from raising a
hammer and raising funds to include raising your voice. Email actspeakbuild@
habitat.org for more information.
For more information on how you can help Habitat build louder,
email advocacy@habitat.org.
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MEET THE SPEAKERS
FRIDAY WELCOME
6-8 p.m., Regency Ballroom
MANDY ELM MCCULLEY
Associate with MulvannyG2 Architecture
Mandy McCulley’s Habitat experience dates
to elementary school. She will share how the
power of one experience can set you on a different course forever.
WHAT
CONSTRUCTIVE
DISCONTENT
MEANS TO YOU
Directing frustration
from a dissatisfying
system or environment
into productive and
positive change.
— Mandy McCulley
First volunteer experience: Habitat was my
first volunteer experience. I helped serve lunch
to the volunteers who built my family’s Habitat
home (in Story City, Iowa).
The first time you realized others in the world
lacked basic necessities you had: I was invited
into a home that had no furniture; the floor was
caked dirt, and there was no lighting. I realized
you could find poverty everywhere, and although
I now understand that poverty looks and feels
different to everyone and is about more than
just not having stuff, this was the first time I fully
understood that everyone does not have equal
opportunities.
One problem that you’d like to see solved in your
lifetime: I would really like to see access to good
nutritious food improved, not only in developing areas, but also in our own cities and neighborhoods.
What are you most passionate about professionally? Affordable, sustainable housing.
JOSE A QUINONEZ
Habitat for Humanity International, Volunteer
and Advocacy Engagement director
Jose is a staple of our Youth Leadership Conference speaker’s bureau. When he’s not advocating
for affordable housing through traditional means,
he works with Habitat’s youth volunteer initiatives
to support passionate and engaged volunteers.
The first time you realized others in the world
lacked basic necessities you had: Age 7, after
I visited clinics in the Guatemalan rural areas
with my father.
The first time you felt empowered and knew
you could make a difference: At age 16, when I
refused to accept a national education award.
WHAT
CONSTRUCTIVE
DISCONTENT
MEANS TO YOU
Analyzing a situation
that would benefit from
redesign, and working out
a strategy for improving it.
— Jose Quinonez
One problem that you’d like to see solved in
your lifetime: Malnutrition.
Where can we find you when you’re not working? At the youth league soccer fields, watching
my children play.
Favorite smart phone/tablet app? Fly Delta; it
makes my life easier.
What nonprofit campaigns inspired you recently? One Million Bones.
Favorite smart phone/tablet app? Pinterest.
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SATURDAY BREAKFAST
8-9 a.m., Regency Ballroom
REGINA BEST
Dallas Area Habitat for Humanity, volunteer
services
We met Regina last year during her AmeriCorps
service. Since then, her story of surviving being
a homeless veteran has taken her to Capitol Hill
to advocate for affordable housing on behalf of
Habitat and other organizations.
WHAT
CONSTRUCTIVE
DISCONTENT
MEANS TO YOU
… When I first looked at
that, I thought “oxymoron,”
but defining the two words
and joining the definitions
leads me to creating a better
solution for something that
already exists. Inventing a
better invention.
— Regina Best
The first time you realized others in the world
lacked basic necessities you had: When I
lacked the basic necessities I used to have.
The first time you felt empowered and knew
you could make a difference: When I began
volunteering for Habitat, I realized I could make
a difference.
One problem you’d like to see solved in your
lifetime: I know everyone says homelessness,
but I have to agree. Especially when I know
there is more than enough to go around.
What are you most passionate about professionally? I am most passionate about cooking.
Favorite smart phone/tablet app? Google
Chrome.
Youth today are … technologically separated
from the youth of yesterday.
SUSAN YOW
Affiliate tithe director, HFHI
Susan is a huge advocate of expanding domestic
volunteer efforts to include Habitat affiliates overseas. During this plenary, she will share how your
team can be a part of Habitat’s global mission.
First volunteer experience: Delivering surplus
food (precursor to food stamps and SNAP) with
my mother.
The first time you realized others in the world
lacked basic necessities you had: I knew this
from a very young age. My father represented
Atlanta in the U.S. Congress, and I spent much
of my childhood visiting Atlanta neighborhoods
and churches. I remember being struck by how
differently other children lived.
The first time you felt empowered and knew
you could make a difference: In high school,
I was the president of a multischool volunteer
group that worked with the Atlanta Boys Club.
Through this group, we involved hundreds of
private school students in an after-school tutoring program.
Where can we find you when you’re not working? On the tennis court or walking my dogs.
Favorite smart phone/tablet app? Words with
Friends — a great way to stay connected with
family and friends who don’t live in Atlanta
Youth today are … so much more aware of
global issues. And so important to addressing
those issues.
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WHAT
CONSTRUCTIVE
DISCONTENT
MEANS TO YOU
Recognizing a problem in
the world — something
that needs/demands
improvement — and
proposing a method to
address or solve it.
— Susan Yow
SATURDAY LUNCH, ADVOCACY PANEL
12:15-1:30 p.m., Regency Ballroom
Members of the advocacy panel will share tips on how they’ve learned to take an issue and cut past
the red tape to make policymakers take notice. A 10-minute question-and-answer session will be held
at the end.
ZACH MAURIN
Executive director, ServiceNation
WHAT
CONSTRUCTIVE
DISCONTENT
MEANS TO YOU
Having the courage to call
out the status quo and do
something about it.
—Zach Maurin
The first time you realized others in the world
lacked basic necessities you had: Ninth grade.
I had a bunch of really bad teachers, but I knew
I’d be OK because I had family members that
could help me. However, I went to school with a
lot of kids who came from low-income families,
and they had many teachers that were worse
than the ones I had. For some reason, it hit me
strongly that these kids were lacking the education they deserved and should have access to
the best teachers.
The first time you felt empowered and knew
you could make a difference: I love learning and
leading, but didn’t always love school since it
too often doesn’t fulfill those needs. In my senior
year of high school, I convinced the school to
let me take a half-day with the other half spent
interning at the Pittsburgh AIDS Task Force. I
was charged with recruiting high schools to
have teams in the AIDS Walk to raise money. I’d
go from school to school presenting to my peers.
It was often just me — no adults, no one telling
me exactly what I should do. I just had to figure
it out and get it done.
One problem that you’d like to see solved in your
lifetime: Too many people are disconnected from
each other and from communities, and we don’t
have enough civic leadership that our country
needs. I’m a firm believer that a year of national
service is one of the best answers. Not just in
my lifetime, but within the next 10 years, I’d like
to see 1 million annual, full-time national service
positions. And for fun, I wish the volume on commercials would not go up. It’s really irritating.
What are you most passionate about professionally? I’m deeply passionate about making
a year of service part of American life as a way
to tackle major social problems and inspire
generations of great civic leaders, especially
in education. That’s another big passion — 1
million kids dropping out annually is beyond a
problem. It puts our entire democracy at risk. I’m
interested in the role of technology to disrupt the
traditional education system, modernize it and
put the student first.
Where can we find you when you’re not working? I’m fairly introverted, so when I’m not
working, I’m pretty low-key, trying to recharge
and relax at home. I try to stay active and play
some soccer.
Youth today are … disrupting the status quo for
the better, but need to do even more.
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WHAT
CONSTRUCTIVE
DISCONTENT
MEANS TO YOU
Advocacy without
alienation: loving those
in need enough to act,
and loving those who
resist enough that their
hearts and minds may be
persuaded in the future.
— Christopher Ptomey
CHRISTOPHER PTOMEY
Federal Relations director, HFHI
EVAN DAVIES
Volunteer specialist, HFHI
First volunteer experience: Delivering mops and
brooms for a civic organization when I was 7
years old.
First volunteer experience: I was 16, and a
friend and I started a Habitat club at my high
school. We went out and built on a townhouse
not far from my parents’ house. I still remember
meeting those very first homeowners and the
tangible work that was done. I guess it obviously
had an impact on me.
The first time you realized others in the world
lacked basic necessities you had: When I saw
where one of my baby sitters lived with her family when I was 6 or 7.
The first time you felt empowered and knew you
could make a difference: My first lobbying experience was when I was 8. I sent President Ford a
letter demanding that he prevent the Japanese
from continuing to kill whales.
What are you most passionate about professionally? Bringing people with disparate political views together in support of public policies
that address poverty and housing deficiencies.
Where can we find you when you’re not working? On a bike path somewhere in the greater
D.C. area.
The first time you realized others in the world
lacked basic necessities you had: I was 8 or
9 and waiting on my mom at the dentist. I had
stumbled out of the children’s section and
happened upon a magazine containing graphic
images from the Rwandan genocide. I remember
struggling to comprehend what I was seeing and
why something like that would happen on this
earth. I think that was one of the most pivotal
moments of my life.
One problem that you’d like to see solved in
your lifetime: We will eliminate extreme poverty
in the next 15 years.
Favorite smart phone/tablet app? Duolingo.
Youth today are … overscheduled.
What nonprofit campaigns inspired you
recently? I absolutely love the Yes Men. If you
haven’t heard of them, download their documentary on Netflix.
10
WHAT
CONSTRUCTIVE
DISCONTENT
MEANS TO YOU
Letting the absence of
proper order and peace
sink in deep, and taking
that urge to provide
meaning and structure
to build another world of
possibilities.
—Evan Davies
SATURDAY STATE FARM CELEBRATION DINNER
6-8 p.m., Regency Ballroom
HEATHER PAUL
State Farm public affairs specialist, digital media
We’re excited to welcome Heather back to the
Youth Leadership Conference. She was instrumental in forming the Habitat and State Farm relationship in 2007. It will be quite the homecoming.
WHAT
CONSTRUCTIVE
DISCONTENT
MEANS TO YOU
Change is inevitable,
but rather than
focusing on
negativity, be a part
of the solution.
— Heather Paul
First volunteer experience: I grew up in the
1970s (just dated myself), and my mom was very
active in the women’s liberation movement. She
took all her kids to Equal Rights Amendment rallies, and I would volunteer with her to march in
parades and hand out literature. Seeing my mom
so socially and politically active encouraged me
to do the same.
The first time you realized others in the world
lacked basic necessities you had: I was actually someone who grew up with less than many
others. My mom was the single parent of four
children, and she often worked three jobs just to
cover basic expenses. We were on food stamps
for several years, and every month, we stood in
line for government food assistance (cheese,
powdered milk and generic cereal). We had
Christmases where we exchanged pictures with
each other or made things, because we couldn’t
afford to buy gifts. I always knew that we didn’t
have a lot of money, and it bothered me a great
deal because I knew that we were different from
the other people in our small town in Iowa.
One problem that you’d like to see solved in
your lifetime: Gay rights and marriage equality
for those in the LGBTQ community. Everyone
deserves to love and be loved, regardless of
orientation. We have one world and one lifetime
— let’s spend it loving, caring and supporting
each other.
What are you most passionate about professionally? Connecting the dots by sharing information
and resources with partners. I feel tremendous
pride when I am able to bring organizations
together to take advantage of limited resources.
Where can we find you when you’re not working?
I love shooting nature and wildlife photography
and playing Xbox 360. I especially love playing
“Skyrim” and “Batman: Arkham City.” I also
collect comic books and urban vinyl toys and
artwork.
Youth today are … no different than past
generations. Past generations have made the
same complaints about youth: disrespectful,
rebellious, selfish and lazy. I venture to guess
that in 20 to 30 years many of today’s youth will
be making the same complaints against the next
generation. Today’s youth are much more globally connected than past generations and, as a
result, are exposed to different ideas and ways
of thinking than in the past. This has resulted in
a more tolerant generation.
11
Jake and Simone Bernstein started inspiring our Habitat youth initiative staff last year when their
nonprofit, VolunTEEN Nation, began to tweet Habitat youth initiatives volunteer opportunities. Their
“just do it” attitude is inspiring. Plus we appreciate all the retweets they help us gather.
WHAT
CONSTRUCTIVE
DISCONTENT
MEANS TO YOU
Looking for a solution
rather than sulking
over the problem.
— Jake Bernstein
JAKE BERNSTEIN
Co-founder and vice president, VolunTEEN Nation
SIMONE BERNSTEIN
Co-founder and president, VolunTEEN Nation
First volunteer experience: At age 12, I started
volunteering at the St. Louis Crisis Nursery, a 24hour crisis center for kids. During middle school,
I enjoyed playing basketball with the young kids
at the center.
The first time you realized others in the world
lacked basic necessities you had: When I was 4,
my parents took our family to visit my uncle and
his family in Costa Rica. I noticed many children
walking around the city without shoes. I asked my
uncle why children were barefoot on the streets of
San Jose. He explained that many families lacked
the resources for food, clothing and shelter.
The first time you realized others in the world
lacked basic necessities you had: From a young
age, my parents made sure we understood how
fortunate we were to get an education and not
have to worry about basic necessities. Working
with the Donald Danforth Plant Science Center
when I was a freshman in high school allowed
me to see firsthand the extent of resource scarcity on a global scale.
The first time you felt empowered and knew
you could make a difference: After the first
volunteer fair we organized, we received a great
response from organizations, thanking my sister
and I for helping them. We connected the organizations with dozens of summer volunteers,
allowing them to spread their mission.
What are you most passionate about professionally? Technology.
Where can we find you when you’re not working? In the library or on the fencing strip.
Favorite smart phone/tablet app? Wunderlist.
What nonprofit campaigns inspired you recently?
MedShare, a nonprofit that is improving the environment and global health by recycling surplus
medical supplies for the developing world.
Youth today are … creative.
12
The first time you felt empowered and knew
you could make a difference: When my dad was
deployed, the outpouring of support my family
received from the community ignited my desire
to volunteer.
One problem that you’d like to see solved in
your lifetime: The opportunity for young people
throughout the world to receive an education.
What are you most passionate about professionally? The power of youth to create change
utilizing technology, apps and social media.
Where can we find you when you’re not working? Running park trails, chatting with friends at
local coffee shops, watching the “Today” show
and tweeting.
Favorite smart phone/tablet app? Twitter.
Youth today are … motivated to get involved and
improve their community.
WHAT
CONSTRUCTIVE
DISCONTENT
MEANS TO YOU
Using critical thinking
and problem-solving
skills to find a solution
to a problem.
— Simone Bernstein
SUNDAY, CLOSING PLENARY
8-9 a.m., Regency Ballroom
JUSTIN GERSTNER
Vice chair of the board of directors for Habitat
for Humanity of Dane County, Wisconsin, and
medical resident in psychiatry at University of
Wisconsin Health, Justin has been a Habitat
fixture for several years. We’ve seen him as a
campus chapter member, a Collegiate Challenge team leader and now as an affiliate board
member. Life of service, indeed.
WHAT
CONSTRUCTIVE
DISCONTENT
MEANS TO YOU
Having the will to
oppose the current
status quo.
— Justin Gerstner
First volunteer experience: Playing bingo in a
nursing home.
The first time you realized others in the world
lacked basic necessities you had: An example
of a time when this really sunk in was when a
colleague made a reference to Africa, saying,
“That is, if Africa survives HIV.” The fact that
a virus could cripple an entire continent was
mind-blowing.
What are you most passionate about professionally? Mental health care.
Where can we find you when you’re not working? With Habitat or on the lake.
Favorite smart phone/tablet app? Color Note or
IMDB.
What nonprofit campaigns inspired you
recently? Besides HFH Dane County’s 25th anniversary? Likely anything Joe Biden has to say.
TO SOME
YOUR HELP MEANS EVERYTHING
Hunger takes many forms.
Hunger for food, hunger for affordable
housing, hunger for jobs, hunger for
hope. For those who hunger for a fresh
start, you can make a difference.
Help SOME restore hope and dignity
one person at a time.
Youth today are … our future, or less of a cliché,
the only chance we have.
To make a tax-deductible contribution to SOME,
call 202.797.8806 or go to www.some.org.
Please designate SOME.
CFC #74405 United Way #8189
13
Koinonia Farm
an intentional Christian community
Committed to Feeding the hungry
No chemical
pesticides,
insecticides,
fertilizers
Physically with good, wholesome food
Spiritually with classes, internships, retreats
God’s creation through sustainable farming - Order
Biological Pecans & Fairtrade chocolate at our website
Consider a Koinonia internship
Discern your gifts, talents, and life calling
Walk alongside our house church, deepen your faith
Explore Christian community
Learn about living a life of service to others
Enjoy the farm life
Come and see!
Birthplace of Habitat for Humanity
Forerunner to the Civil Rights Movement
Leader in Sustainable Agriculture
Americus, GA
www.koinoniapartners.org
14
1-877-738-1741
info@koinoniafarm.org
WORKSHOP DESCRIPTIONS
SESSION 1: SATURDAY, 9:15-10:45 A.M.
CRAFT YOUR STORY: ATTRACT VOLUNTEERS,
RAISE FUNDS THROUGH TARGETED MESSAGING
Kate Lundberg, HFHI Global Village
When you tell people how Habitat changed your
volunteer experience, your story can help you
recruit more volunteers, donors and advocates.
Don’t get lost in the weeds of the details. This
workshop will teach you how to share your most
memorable moments and craft a message that
will engage more people in our mission. Bring
your best anecdotes.
Location: Washington B
Audience: All
SKIP THE FIGHT: MASTER CONFLICT
MANAGEMENT SKILLS BEFORE YOU NEED THEM
Krista Padgett, HFHI Learning and Organizational
Development
Don’t be a Michael Scott and make conflict
resolution awkward. Conflict happens in any
group or organization. It’s the way we respond
— and don’t respond — that will resolve issues
and make the difference in being effective.
Krista will share insights into the sources and
dynamics of conflicts and how to effectively
respond based on your mindset, communication
skills and on using a collaborative process to
resolve conflict effectively.
Location: Potomac 2
Audience: All
PASSING THE BATON OF FAITH-FILLED
LEADERSHIP
Rhea Triche, HFHI Faith Engagement
Habitat for Humanity International is committed to
putting God’s love into action in every aspect of the
organization. This workshop will introduce Habitat
for Humanity’s faith-based foundations and how
faith relations can permeate every part of your
Habitat service. Participants will discuss engaging
youth and young adults with faith relations, from
vacation Bible school to social media interactions.
Location: Potomac 3
Audience: Advisers
SOCIAL MEDIA 101
Heather Paul, State Farm
We know about Facebook and Twitter, but how
do these social tools target the right audience,
tell great stories and get the right people engaged? This session will focus on taking to the
next level a basic social presence on Facebook
and Twitter. Bring your ideas, questions and
things you’ve learned along the way. Topics will
include how to target, find and speak to your
audience; Twitter versus Facebook; how to tailor
your message to different accounts; the best
time to post; moderating discussions and responding to your fans; and finding new followers
and keeping them engaged.
Location: Washington A
Audience: All
TITHING WORLDWIDE
Susan Yow, HFHI Tithe
As campus chapter and Youth United members,
you share Habitat’s vision of a world where
everyone has a decent place to live. All campus
chapters are asked to tithe — to use a portion of
their fundraising to support Habitat’s international work. Through your tithe, you can have
an enormous impact on families. Your chapter,
for example, could raise less than $5,000 and be
able to sponsor a home for orphans in Malawi.
Learn more about the tithe program and ways
your chapter can become more engaged in
Habitat’s work around the world.
Location: Potomac 4
Audience: Campus chapters, Youth United
The audiences listed under each workshop are suggestions
only; participants are welcome to attend any workshop they
find interesting.
BUILDING A LIFE OF EDUCATED SERVICE
Caitlin Lamb and Evan Davies, HFHI Volunteer
Mobilization
Your passion for Habitat can extend far past your
build site experience. Develop a life of educated
service by joining us to learn how to build your
case to advocate against poverty housing and
shelter. Explore ways you can effectively share
your knowledge and passion.
Location: Potomac 1
Audience: All
KEY PLAYERS PANEL: MAKE COLLEGIATE
CHALLENGE TRIPS EPIC … NOT EPIC FAILS.
Abigail Jenkins, HFHI Volunteer Moblization; Abigail
Zoller, University of Minnesota; Lyndsay Humphreys,
Habitat for Humanity of Sussex County, Delaware
Our key players — Collegiate Challenge staff,
host affiliate volunteer coordinator and team
leader — will lead a discussion about how much
support our participants have during Collegiate
Challenge. Participants will gain an understanding of what role each position has in making sure
that Collegiate Challenge trips go as smoothly
as possible. Our two main panelists, the host
affiliate volunteer coordinator and the team
leader, will be prompted with questions that will
cover the Collegiate Challenge experience from
registration to trip reflections and everything in
between. Two question-and-answer periods will
be held at the end of the workshop. Participants
will leave prepared and excited to lead Collegiate
Challenge trips of their own.
Location: Potomac 6
Audience: Collegiate Challenge
15
SESSION 2: SATURDAY, 11 A.M.-NOON
STAY ENGAGED WITH HABITAT THROUGH
NATIONAL SERVICE
Emily Stock, HFHI National Service
Habitat service doesn’t have to end when you
graduate. National Service offers programs that
keep you in the nonprofit field, give you hands-on
work experience and help you with student loans.
This workshop will cover the benefits of AmeriCorps service and how National Service has
evolved to engage thousands of young people
in the past 20 years. Bring a pen. We’ll help you
make a plan to become a lifelong volunteer.
Location: Potomac 5
Audience: Habitat Young Professionals, campus
chapters
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AND THE
NEIGHBORHOOD REVITALIZATION INITIATIVE
Nick Hericks, HFHI Neighborhood Revitalization
Initiative
During this session, participants will become
familiar with the goals and core tenets of the
Neighborhood Revitalization Initiative and how
NRI fits with Habitat for Humanity International’s
strategic plan and community development.
Attend this session to discuss what new goals
means for affiliates and neighborhoods, and how
campus chapters can get involved and support
these efforts.
Location: Potomac 3
Audience: Campus chapters
16
MAKE AFFORDABLE HOUSING MATTER
Anne Meyers and Catherine Stodola, HFHI Government Relations and Advocacy
Policies and systems affect housing at all levels
of government. You have be able to make a
tremendous impact by showing your elected
officials and their staff why affordable housing is
important to their constituents. Learn how to engage elected officials and their staff in Habitat’s
mission, including how to phrase discussions on
issues and how to build and sustain relationships that will benefit affordable housing.
Location: Potomac 1
Audience: All
LANDING THE GIG: RÉSUMÉ BUILDING AND
INTERVIEW WORKSHOP
Anthony Buatti, Teach For America
In today’s competitive job market, effective
résumé and interview skills can lead to a variety
of opportunities. This session addresses targeted
strategies for résumé writing and preparing for job
and volunteer interviews. Learn how to effectively
highlight knowledge, experiences and abilities on
your résumé and during interviews. Bring a copy
of your résumé to edit during the workshop.
Location: Washington A
Audience: Habitat Young Professionals, campus
chapters
IMPACT BRAND: LEVERAGING THE POWER OF
THE HABITAT BRAND
Tammie Ferguson, HFHI Marketing
Using the power of our billion-dollar Habitat
brand helps build partnerships, recruit volunteers, raise awareness and raise funds. We’ll
discuss choosing branded marketing items and
creatively promoting youth-based events while
following logo compliance standards.
Location: Washington B
Audience: Youth United, campus chapters
INTERGENERATIONAL COLLABORATION
Caitlin Lamb and Cody Logsdon, HFHI Volunteer
Mobilization
We all have a unique set of skills that can benefit Habitat regardless of our age or generation
label. This workshop will start with a review and
discussion of the baby boomer and X, Y and Z
generations. We will discuss what motivates
each generation, how the groups communicate
and how their working style can benefit your
team. You’ll go home with some great ideas on
how to encourage intergenerational collaboration at the affiliate.
Location: Potomac 4
Audience: All
FACILITATING EFFECTIVE MEETINGS
Krista Padgett, HFHI Learning and Organizational
Development
Are you a team leader who needs tools and
techniques to facilitate more effective meetings?
Participants will learn to identify their roles and
responsibilities and explore techniques to make
leading meetings more effective and productive.
Location: Potomac 2
Audience: All
SESSION 3: SATURDAY, 1:45-2:45 P.M.
LEADERSHIP COMPASS
Alice Jackson, HFHI National Service
Leadership Compass allows participants to
identify skills and strengths they would like to
enhance. This workshop is a tool that bolsters
team accountability by pushing people to consider the strengths they bring to a team and how
each person might become better at changing
work styles to balance a team or fit a situation.
Bring an open mind.
Location: Potomac 5
Audience: All
CUSTOMIZING FUNDRAISING STRATEGY
Samuel P. Kovach-Orr, Rutgers University Campus
Chapter alumnus
Long-term goal: Raise $100,000. But what has
to happen to get the $10 and $20 donations
needed to reach that goal? This session will assist groups wanting to further their fundraising
initiatives beyond spaghetti dinners and bake
sales. Participants will learn how to set shortterm goals that will help groups reach long-term
goals. We’ll also discuss best practices from
outstanding campus chapters.
Location: Washington B
Audience: Youth United, campus chapters
MAKE AN INTERNATIONAL BUILD WORK FOR
YOU
Kate Lundberg, HFHI Global Village
Habitat builds in more than 70 countries globally,
and we want to put you on a plane to knock a few
off your travel bucket list. Participants will receive
an overview of the Global Village program that
matches volunteers with building teams. Learn
how your group can plan a trip to be a part of
Habitat’s mission and how building abroad continues our fight to end poverty housing.
Location: Washington A
Audience: Campus chapters
TRANSFERRING SERVICE EXPERIENCE TO LIFE
EXPERIENCE
Felicia Williams, HFHI National Service
In Youth United groups and campus chapters,
youth are constantly using team management,
accounting and organization skills. This session
will focus on how to leverage service experience skills to build the next phase of your career
or service path. Participants will learn what
skills are needed in the service field and how to
maximize talents on résumés and in interviews.
Location: Potomac 3
Audience: Youth United, campus chapters
DON’T HESITATE TO ADVOCATE
Lisa Hienz and Catherine Stodola, HFHI Government
Relations and Advocacy
Take your campus chapter’s Habitat message to
the next level with advocacy events. If you aren’t
sure how to get started, then this session is for
you! Participants will learn exciting ways that
individuals and groups can effectively target
elected officials to change policies and systems
that perpetuate poverty housing.
Location: Potomac 1
Audience: Campus chapters
FACILITATING FOR RESULTS: HOW TO LEAD AN
ACTION PLANNING SESSION
Calli Speakman and Rebecca McWhorter, HFHI
Volunteer Mobilization
Want to plan an event? Recruit and retain
more members? Educate about Habitat on your
campus? Learn how to organize all your group’s
ideas and put them into action using an action
planning session. An action planning session
is an organized group discussion that helps
your group generate ideas on a topic and work
toward an actionable plan. This workshop will
walk you through the action planning process
and give you tips on how to facilitate one.
Location: Potomac 4
Audience: Advisers
PASSIVE HOUSE
Dan Hines, Habitat for Humanity of Washington, D.C.
Learn about Passive House, a cutting-edge
house design in energy efficiency that is being
used by Habitat for Humanity of Washington,
D.C. Dan Hines, construction superintendent,
will give background on the house concept
and explain how this relatively new design can
save money for Habitat families worldwide. This
workshop will give your group something to
share with the Habitat affiliate in your area.
Location: Potomac 2
Audience: All
17
SESSION 4: MEET AND SHARES SATURDAY, 2:50-3:30 P.M.
In this new session, you’re the expert! Share your successes and unravel
your challenges. Choose a session that is an area of your expertise or one
that you would like to learn more about.
FUNDRAISING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Potomac 1
ACT! SPEAK! BUILD! WEEK . . . . . . . . . . . Potomac 2
OFF-SITE: OPPORTUNITIES BEYOND THE BUILD SITE . . . Potomac 3
BEFORE THE BUILD: ENGAGING YOUTH UNDER 16 . . . . Potomac 4
STUDENT LEADERS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . Potomac 5
SOCIAL MEDIA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Potomac 6
ADVISERS AND AFFILIATE STAFF. . . . . . . . .Washington A
EVENT PLANNING . . . . . . . . . . . . . Washington B
SERVICE LEARNING . . . . . . . . . . . Regency Ballroom
ADVOCACY. . . . . . . . . . . . . Independence Foyer
SESSION 5: SUNDAY, 9-10 A.M.
ALTERNATIVE BREAK REFLECTION: TURNING
SMALL MOMENTS INTO A MOVEMENT
Myrtle Castro, David Brambert, Sarah Edwards and
Christina DiCristofano, Elmhurst College campus
chapter, Elmhurst, Ill.
A key result of participating in alternative breaks
is developing engaged citizens who are aware of
social issues and ask critical questions. Reflection time is a tool that connects participants
with one another and gives them the opportunity
to explore social issues. During this workshop,
participants will learn how one campus chapter
uses reflection to engage its team beyond one
week of building. Participants will engage in a reflection activity and discuss techniques and tools
used in facilitation. Resources will be provided.
Location: Potomac 1
Audience: Collegiate Challenge
18
TEACHING AS LEADERSHIP
Anthony Buatti, Teach For America
What are the characteristics and common
practices of a truly effective leader? Teach For
America, a movement to end educational inequity,
has explored this question for nearly 20 years.
Anthony Buatti will share the findings during this
workshop. Participants will learn, discuss and
apply leadership lessons gleaned from teachers
and community leaders who work in many of the
same communities in which Habitat serves. Best
of all, participants will leave with concrete ways
to increase their impact as a leader, whether on a
build, with a campus chapter or in the workplace.
Location: Washington A
Audience: Habitat Young Professionals
REVAMP FUNDRAISING IDEAS
Kaysie Cox, Miranda Bjorklund, Juliette Murillo and
Jacqueline Charbonneau, Florida State University
campus chapter
Tired of seeing “FUNraiser” on a flier? This workshop will help participants think outside of the box
for new and creative fundraisers that aren’t only
fun but profitable. Learn how to revamp old standbys and stand out from other nonprofits. We’ll also
discuss best practices and experiences to help
your team find new ideas for this school year.
Location: Potomac 4
Audience: All
ENERGETIC ENGAGEMENT: REACHING YOUTH
AGES 5 TO 15
Barbara Smith and Meredith Nelson, HFHI Volunteer
Mobilization
Not being able to handle a hammer on the work
site doesn’t mean the skills aren’t needed elsewhere. This workshop will teach affiliate staff
how to engage youth ages 5 to 15. Learn multiple
techniques to guide Generation Z to use their
hearts, hands and voices to make a difference.
Location: Potomac 6
Audience: Advisers
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AND THE
NEIGHBORHOOD REVITALIZATION INITIATIVE
Nick Hericks, HFHI Neighborhood Revitalization Initiative
Participants will become familiar with the goals
and core tenets of the Neighborhood Revitalization Initiative and will learn how NRI fits with
Habitat for Humanity International’s strategic plan
and community development. Attend this session
to discuss what new goals mean for affiliates and
neighborhoods, and how campus chapters can
get involved to support these efforts.
Location: Potomac 3
Audience: Campus chapters
WOMEN BUILD: THE FUTURE
Veleria Farris, HFHI Women Build
The Women Build program provides a number of
ways to make significant contributions to Habitat.
Learn how Women Build provides an alternative
to typical building, volunteering and community
engagement opportunities. This workshop will
provide vital information about this exponentially
growing program and your part in empowering
women to build for generations to come.
Location: Potomac 2
Audience: All
DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY
Ezra Millstein, HFHI photographer
Ezra will answer your technical and creative
questions about photography, and offer tips on
how to shoot, edit and use the most effective
images to convey your message.
Location: Washington B
Audience: All
SESSION 6: SUNDAY, 10:15-11:45 A.M.
MEN (AND WOMEN) WANTED FOR
HAZARDOUS JOURNEY: APPLYING SIR ERNEST
SHACKLETON’S STYLE TO HABITAT PROGRAMS
Patricia Decker, HFHI U.S. Office
“Notice: Men wanted for hazardous journey.
Small wages. Bitter cold. Long months of complete darkness. Constant danger. Safe return
doubtful. Honour and recognition is case of success. — Ernest Shackleton.”This advertisement
attracted the crew for polar explorer Sir Ernest
Shackleton’s 1914-1916 British Imperial TransAtlantic Expedition, which many consider the
greatest survival story of all time. The leadership
style, innovation and determination of 100 years
ago still applies to the challenge Habitat leaders
face as we fight poverty in our communities and
world. Join this discussion where participants
will apply leadership lessons to the spectrum
of Habitat for Humanity programs. Only leaders
who can endure need attend this session.
Location: Washington B
Audience: All
SOCIAL MEDIA 2.0: ADVANCED CHAT
Heather Paul, State Farm
Having a good Facebook or Twitter profile is a
great start, but the Web and social media offer
so much more and change constantly. Your audience lives and learns on social sites, and the
way you use those sites to share and connect
will determine if your organization is growing or
maintaining. This session will focus on driving
your online and social presence beyond the
basics. Bring your ideas, questions and things
you’ve learned along the way. Topics will include
writing for the Web, creating engaging content,
optimizing content for search engines, making
your audience grow and using other social sites
to spread your message.
Location: Washington A
Audience: All
HABITAT IN THE WORKPLACE
Jenna Widmann, HFHI Volunteer
Mobilization
Habititis doesn’t stop because you graduate!
Habitat Young Professionals is the perfect
transition for campus chapter leaders and
members to segue into community networking
after college. Habitat Young Professional
members are part of a nationwide community
that wants to serve with Habitat affiliates and
find ways to bring a younger generation to
the volunteer experience. This workshop will
showcase the work of young professional
chapters and teach you how to connect with a
chapter or start one in your area. Bring your best
ideas for how we can help you stay involved
beyond your college years.
Location: Potomac 1
Audience: Campus chapters, Habitat Young
Professionals
19
THE ART OF GETTING AHEAD
Meredith Nelson, HFHI Volunteer Mobilization
Ever have days where you feel like you can’t get
ahead? In the words of Dolly Parton, sometimes
it isn’t enough to “pour yourself a cup of ambition.” This session will show you and your team
where hard work ends and real life takes over.
Come prepared to get frustrated and leave with a
new experience to share when you return home.
Location: Potomac 5
Audience: All
CRAFT YOUR STORY: ATTRACT VOLUNTEERS AND
RAISE FUNDS THROUGH TARGETED MESSAGING
Kate Lundberg, HFHI Global Village
When you tell people how Habitat changed
your volunteer experience, your story can
recruit more volunteers, donors and advocates.
Don’t get lost in the weeds of the details. This
workshop will teach you how to share your most
memorable moments and craft a message that
will engage more people in our mission. Bring
your best anecdotes.
Location: Potomac 3
Audience: All
Have you
built yet?
More than 2,100 houses have been
built in the past decade by Women
Build volunteers on Habitat work
sites. You are invited to join in this
vast and energetic movement.
Volunteer. Donate. Advocate.
habitat.org/wb • 800-422-4828
20
SAY IT LOUD!: INTERACTIVE STORYTELLING
Tammie Ferguson, HFHI marketing
Telling powerful stories in an interactive way
helps connect current and potential supporters
to the mission of Habitat. We’ll talk about how
to share your Habitat experience by inspiring
others with easy yet compelling multimedia tools
and through social media.
Location: Potomac 4
Audience: All
MEET THE STAFF
Habitat for Humanity International staff members are excited to spend the Youth Leadership Conference weekend with you. This weekend recharges us as we continue to strive to give you the best
volunteer experience possible. Look for us if you need assistance, whether this weekend or in the
next volunteer year.
ALLYSON DRINNON
@allysondrinnon
Volunteer Program implementation, associate
director
WHAT
CONSTRUCTIVE
DISCONTENT
MEANS TO YOU
Being aware of the
world’s challenges,
understanding your
limitations, doing
what you can do and
working with others
to help them do what
they can do, to make
a big difference.
— Allyson Drinnon
First volunteer experience: In high school, I
volunteered at St. Joseph’s Diner, a soup kitchen
in my hometown. We made a big salad in a trash
can (a clean trash can). But it was the biggest
salad I’ve ever seen, and it was fun getting to
know the regular volunteers. Seeing the clients
of the soup kitchen opened my eyes to a part of
my town that wasn’t usually visible to me.
One problem that you’d like to see solved in
your lifetime: I would like to see the problems
with the education system solved.
Where can we find you when you’re not working? Most likely with my two young daughters,
ages 5 and 6, either in the barn with the horses
or cleaning their room.
What nonprofit or for-profit campaigns inspired
you recently? I think that Lauren Bush Lauren’s
FEED Projects in partnership with Target is on
point.
Favorite inspirational quote? I like this quote
from Maya Angelou: “I’ve learned that people
will forget what you said, people will forget what
you did, but people will never forget how you
made them feel.”
ABBEY JENKINS
@abbeysuejenkins
Volunteer operations specialist
First volunteer experience: I was in Girl Scouts.
As a Girl Scout, you’re asked to participate in
certain activities to earn badges. One of my
activities was to read to a group of elderly men
and women. I wrote my own book to read. I felt
that they should have an opportunity to learn
about me. Here’s one sentence: “I have a puppy.
She was born yesterday. She is one month old.”
Yes, I actually read that.
What are you most passionate about professionally? Housing. That’s the obvious answer,
right? But it’s true. Through all of my experiences with Habitat for Humanity and another nonprofit, in Nashville, Tennessee, I have learned
that housing is vital for anyone and everyone.
Without housing, how can people focus on holding a steady job, going to school, or self-care?
Without shelter and safety, everything else will
fall by the wayside.
WHAT
CONSTRUCTIVE
DISCONTENT
MEANS TO YOU
Taking what upsets
you and turning
it into action that
makes change.
— Abbey Jenkins
Favorite smart phone/tablet app? Instagram. I
get to be artsy, with very little effort.
One thing you’d have on you in case of a zombie
apocalypse? Wasp spray. It can shoot up to
20 feet away, and it blinds your attacker. The
only way to reverse the blindness is to get an
antidote from a hospital, which I’m sure zombies
aren’t thinking about.
Favorite inspirational quote? “You can’t talk
peace and have a gun.” — Francis Magalona
Everyone should read: “Gang Leader for a Day”
by Sudhir Venkatesh. In this book he chronicles
the life of a gang leader living in one of South
Chicago’s public housing developments, the
Robert Taylor Homes.
21
KATIE KEY
@katiejeankey
Learn and Build Experience and marketing intern
One problem that you’d like to see solved in
your lifetime: Fiscal responsibility. Getting
spending under control on a personal, national
and global level.
WHAT
CONSTRUCTIVE
DISCONTENT
MEANS TO YOU
Creating change
from an undesirable
action or feeling.
— Katie Key
Where can we find you when you’re not working? Target.
One thing you’d have on you in case of a zombie
apocalypse? A great outfit. I’m totally unprepared for the apocalypse, so I’m just going to
accept it and be the best dressed zombie ever.
One time you’ve felt empowered by the work
you do: When I received my college diploma!
Everyone should read: The Sunday comics.
CAITLIN LAMB
@CaitlinLamb3
Youth Engagement and product innovation
specialist
The first time you realized others in the world
lacked basic necessities you had: I have been
an avid National Geographic enthusiast since
before I could read. I became exposed to people
who lived quite differently than myself, with a
lot less than I had. Growing up in a rural middle
class neighborhood, this was my only way of
accessing a world so much bigger than me.
What are you most passionate about professionally? I am passionate about the development of healthy, sustainable communities.
Community is the foundation of our lives and to
me is important in growth and happiness.
Where can we find you when you’re not working? You can find me spending time with my
Australian shepherd, Sofie, preferably outdoors.
If I am not there, I am breaking in my backpack,
traveling.
Favorite hotel conference meal? Simply put,
desserts. All desserts.
Breakfast beverage of choice? Coffee, threecup minimum.
One time you’ve felt empowered by the work
you do: On a recent Global Village trip to Paraguay, I experienced slum conditions for the first
time. I was empowered in the sense that while
we still have so much work left to do, my work of
engaging the next generation is a crucial step to
eliminate poverty housing.
semesteronline.org/
22
WHAT
CONSTRUCTIVE
DISCONTENT
MEANS TO YOU
Using what makes us
uncomfortable, angry or
upset and transforming
those feelings into
positive action.
— Caitlin Lamb
WHAT
CONSTRUCTIVE
DISCONTENT
MEANS TO YOU
It means no longer having
to ignore the injustices
we witness or experience
and being empowered to
use our passion and skills
to do something about it.
—Cody Logsdon
CODY LOGSDON
@LogsdonCody
Innovation and implementation, associate director
REBECCA MCWHORTER
@RebeccaMcWhort
Volunteer operations, manager
The first time you realized others in the world
lacked basic necessities you had: I can’t remember when it actually clicked, but I remember
my parents constantly talking about this. They
were both farm kids who grew up in rural Iowa,
and they saw a lot of families go through a lot
of hardships (including their own). They always
took the opportunity to teach a lesson about
gratefulness. Whether it was hot meals, new
shoes, education or indoor plumbing (no, I’m not
kidding) they made sure my sister and I knew
how lucky we were.
One problem that you’d like to see solved in
your lifetime: An end to poverty housing.
Favorite smart phone/tablet app? The map app.
I have a horrible sense of direction, so I have to
use it all the time.
Breakfast beverage of choice? Green tea.
One thing you’d have on you in case of a zombie
apocalypse? My smart phone, so I could Google
how to kill zombies.
Where can we find you when you’re not working? Well, I am currently sitting on my porch as
I complete this. I also like getting out and going
for a walk or attempting, very poorly, to play
some type of sport (softball, soccer, ultimate
Frisbee) from time to time.
Favorite smart phone/tablet app? Duolingo and
Candy Crush.
One time you’ve felt empowered by the work
you do: During my Global Village trip to Chile last
fall, I got to work with an amazing host family
and met lots of amazing local children.
WHAT
CONSTRUCTIVE
DISCONTENT
MEANS TO YOU
Not being satisfied with
the status quo. If there
is something in the
world that strikes you at
your core or makes you
discontent, instead of just
sitting back and letting
things take their course,
you are working to make
a positive difference.
—Rebecca McWhorter
One time you’ve felt empowered by the work
you do: When I was an AmeriCorps VISTA
member working at the Rochester Area Habitat
affiliate in Minnesota. Our Youth United group
partially sponsored and built a three-bedroom
home for a single mother and her disabled son.
The day of the dedication, I was overflowing
with pride for the hardworking students and
happiness for the mother and her son. Those
students were so driven and committed that
they motivated me to work hard every day.
Everyone should read: “Half the Sky,” “Banker
to the Poor” or “Nickel and Dimed.”
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WHAT
CONSTRUCTIVE
DISCONTENT
MEANS TO YOU
Being motivated to
act on the issues in
the world.
— Meredith Nelson
MEREDITH NELSON
@MerryMeredith3
Youth United capacity building intern
JENN SKUDLAREK
@JennSkudlarek
U.S. Volunteer Programs, manager
First volunteer experience: I volunteered to
spend the day at an orphanage in Ukraine. We
played games, read children’s books in English
and tried to have a conversation with my limited
Russian language experience at the time.
The first time you realized others in the world
lacked basic necessities you had: In 2006, I
went to the Mississippi Gulf Coast along with
many college students to clean up some of the
devastation from Hurricane Katrina. During the
day, I worked with families who lost everything,
yet on my way back to camp I drove past shopping malls where people were buying clothes
and everything was “normal.” I could not reconcile these two images.
What are you most passionate about professionally? Working with youth
What nonprofit or for-profit campaigns inspired
you recently? Half the Sky.
Favorite hotel conference meal? Breakfast. No
one can screw up breakfast.
Favorite inspirational quote? “So we do not lose
heart. Though our outer self is wasting away,
our inner self is being renewed day by day. For
this light momentary affliction is preparing for us
an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen
but to the things that are unseen. For the things
that are seen are transient, but the things that
are unseen are eternal.” — 2 Corinthians 4:16-18
Everyone should read: The Harry Potter series. I
don’t care who you are; those books are delightful.
What are you most passionate about professionally? The powerful thing that happens on the build
site when volunteers and homeowners work together! It is amazing, as the walls to the house go
up, other barriers that are not physical fall down,
and that is the part I am most excited about: the
experience of people who normally might not
meet, coming together for a good cause.
Where can we find you when you’re not working? At home with the family: husband Ben;
June Marie, 3 months; Abe, 2 years old; and our
dog and cat!
What nonprofit or for-profit campaigns inspired
you recently? I recently was introduced to
Sevenly.
Favorite hotel conference meal? I like to claim
I am a vegetarian during conferences because
the veggie meals look so yummy compared to
the meat options.
One time you’ve felt empowered by the work
you do: My first action planning visit to Ohio
University’s Habitat campus chapter.
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WHAT
CONSTRUCTIVE
DISCONTENT
MEANS TO YOU
I see the problem. I
see the family who
lives in a shack,
an overcrowded
apartment, a house
with a hole in the wall.
And it is unacceptable!
I will do something
about it. I will raise
awareness so
everyone sees them
and we can work
together to end this.
— Jenn Skudlarek
BARBARA SMITH
@Barbara_Smith94
Youth Volunteer Engagement specialist
CALLI SPEAKMAN
@CalliSpeakman
Youth Volunteer Engagement specialist
First volunteer experience: Coin drive for UNICEF in first grade.
What are you most passionate about professionally? Habitat’s mission and empowering
youth to feel like they can make a difference.
Favorite smart phone/tablet app? YouVersion.
WHAT
CONSTRUCTIVE
DISCONTENT
MEANS TO YOU
We go beyond talking and
observing circumstances
that just shouldn’t be.
We use our skills and
resources to improve
them and make a better
way of life for all.
— Barbara Smith
What nonprofit or for-profit campaigns inspired
you recently? The Pencil Project.
Where can we find you when you’re not working? Watching a good movie.
Favorite smart phone/tablet app? Scout Mob.
Breakfast beverage of choice? Skinny vanilla latte.
Favorite inspirational quote? “Take the first
step in faith. You don’t have to see the whole
staircase, just take the first step.” — The Rev.
Martin Luther King Jr.
One time you’ve felt empowered by the work
you do: Having joyful tears at the airport at the
end of our Learn and Build Experience trip and
realizing how much the experience transformed
our participants’ lives.
What nonprofit or for-profit campaigns inspired
you recently? Girl Rising film campaign.
One time you’ve felt empowered by the work
you do: Leading an LBE trip this summer. It
renewed my hope in youth and reaffirmed the
importance of my work.
WHAT
CONSTRUCTIVE
DISCONTENT
MEANS TO YOU
Taking action and
doing something
positive with your
frustration and
sadness over the
injustices in the world.
— Calli Speakman
Everyone should read: “Three Cups of Tea.”
MARGARET J. YANKOWSKI
Volunteer
First volunteer experience: In 1997, shortly after
retiring from the town of Greenwich, Connecticut, with a local hospital.
One problem you’d like to see solved in your
lifetime: That we all could live in peace.
What are you most passionate about professionally? At this time in life, it is definitely Habitat.
Where can we find you when you’re not working? Mostly at the Senior Center in Greenwich,
where I am involved five days a week; at libraries; and of course, in the summer at the beach.
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HOTEL MAP
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METRO MAP
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SPECIAL THANKS
2013 YOUTH LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE UNDERWRITER AND SPONSOR
State Farm
The University of Maryland Air Force ROTC
2013 Youth Leadership Conference sponsors STV
and Sprite
Connie Bergeron and Site Selection Solutions
Inc.
2013 Youth Leadership Conference speakers,
exhibitors and HFHI staff
Hyatt Regency Crystal City staff
Habitat for Humanity of Washington, D.C., affiliate staff
All the team leaders, advisers, youth and affiliate
staff who contributed their ideas, time and energy to ensuring the success of the conference.
semesteronline.org/
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TRANSPORTATION &
INFRASTRUCTURE
BUILDINGS &
FACILITIES
CONSTRUCTION
MANAGEMENT
ENERGY
SERVICES
STV is Proud to Support Habitat for Humanity
Enduring. Driven. Visionary.
Reaching the century mark isn’t easy – you have to be quality-driven, client-focused, and
have a vision for the future. At 100 years, STV is looking ahead. As an employee-owned
firm, our planners, architects, engineers and construction managers have a stake in the
business, and are committed to quality performance. We provide personal attention and
timely solutions, with an eye toward sustainability. And with more than 35 offices, we are
a local firm with national resources.
When it comes to getting your project delivered right, choose the firm that has the drive
and vision to be the best.
An employee-owned firm
Offices nationwide
Toll-free: 877-395-5459
info@stvinc.com
www.stvinc.com
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YOUTH INITIATIVES:
121 Habitat St. Americus, GA 31709-3498 USA
229-410-2412 800-HABITAT, ext. 2412
youthprograms@habitat.org habitat.org/getinv
350/VM/10-12
State Farm Insurance is a generous supporter of the Youth Leadership Conference
2013 and is the national corporate sponsor of
HFHI’s youth initiatives. Habitat for Humanity
is grateful for State Farm’s support.