Volunteer Profile

Alessandra Pio di Savoia

In Her Own Words ...

ALESSANDRA PIO DI SAVOIA

Volunteering for Habitat for Humanity in the homeowner development department has been one of the most fulfilling and inspirational experiences of my life. I have always admired Habitat’s mission but being directly involved in its process has given me an even deeper appreciation for the work it does and the many families it helps. I have many treasured memories but one especially touched my heart. I will never forget the young family whose mom and dad, after overcoming numerous obstacles in order to be able to reunite here in the United States, found themselves working three jobs and yet only able to afford a cramped room in someone else’s home.

Despite it all, they treasured what little they had and had managed to make a real home in a 10X12 room. Their willingness to do whatever it takes to rise above adversities and to secure a better life for themselves has been an inspiration to me. One of the happiest days for me since I started volunteering at Habitat two years ago was when I heard the news that they had been approved for a home.

I have been inspired by the dedication and enthusiasm the Habitat staff, AmeriCorps, AmeriCorps VISTAs and many volunteers have toward their work, by the partner families’ commitment to improving their lives, and by how they all come together to form a tightly knit bond. Habitat’s work does not end when the houses are built and the keys are handed in. Strong relationships are formed throughout the process and each new Habitat family becomes a part of an expanding community dedicated to supporting one another and others in need.