At the age of 83, Ron Winger embarked on a journey that not only filled his days with purpose but also led him to find love and a vibrant community at the Habitat Store. Ron’s story is one of resilience, love, and the beauty of giving back.
Ron’s admiration for the work of Habitat for Humanity was longstanding. He had harbored a desire to volunteer with the organization for half his life, inspired in part by his deep respect for former President Jimmy Carter and the incredible initiatives undertaken by Habitat. However, life’s demands had kept him from pursuing this dream until circumstances changed.
Four and a half years ago, Ron experienced the loss of his beloved wife. Left feeling lonely and in need of companionship, he sought solace and connection. It was during this time that he finally made his way to Habitat, drawn by the promise of a welcoming community and the opportunity to contribute to a cause he held dear.
Little did Ron know that this decision would not only fill his days with purpose but also lead him to find love once again. It was at Habitat that he crossed paths with Karen, his now-wife, and the two quickly formed a deep connection. For Ron, meeting Karen felt like a saving grace, bringing light and love back into his life.
Beyond the joy of newfound companionship, Ron discovered unexpected opportunities for personal fulfillment at Habitat. With his background as an art major and a passion for curating, he found himself drawn to the task of identifying valuable donations and using them to raise funds for affordable housing.
One moment stands out in Ron’s memory: on his first day, he stumbled upon an exquisite oil painting in a beautiful Belgian frame. With a keen eye, he priced it at $499.99, and to his delight, it sold at full price within half an hour of being displayed. This success ignited a passion within Ron, spurring him to continue his efforts in support of Habitat’s mission.
For Ron, Habitat has become more than just a place to volunteer; it’s a vibrant community where connections are made and lives are transformed. While not everyone may be as fortunate as he was to find love amidst the aisles of donated goods, Ron believes that everyone can find a sense of belonging and purpose within the Habitat family.
Reflecting on his journey, Ron expresses profound gratitude for the opportunity to be part of such a wonderful organization. “I love Habitat. It saved my life,” he declares, encapsulating the deep sense of fulfillment and joy that permeates his days spent in service to others.
Ron Winger’s story serves as a testament to the power of community and love. In a world often filled with challenges and uncertainties, Ron’s journey reminds us that even in the midst of adversity, there is always hope, connection, and the opportunity for a brighter tomorrow.