Volunteer Spotlight: Earl Becher

Making the complex simple and the mundane meaningful

Earl Becher's diversity of experience is as vast as the different organizations with which he has volunteered for over 30 years.  As a lector, reader and parish council member at his church, Earl's reflection of his faith has been apparent in the reverence and expression in which he undertakes these activities.  While volunteering with Benton Harbor Schools (HOST program) and YMCA (Y-Uncle), it was necessary for him to be a patient listener and supportive mentor, as well as have a consistent level of commitment to the children and the programs.  No matter where Earl's service takes him, he has a high level of commitment to each organization.

At Harbor Habitat for Humanity, Earl always demonstrates patience, conscientious of the fact that the majority of our other volunteers have very little construction experience. Since Earl began volunteering with Harbor Habitat for Humanity, he has been a very positive impact to our organization.  He and wife Claudette have contributed many hours during Naschair and golf outing special events, and Earl tirelessly worked for days on end during the Jimmy Carter Work Project in 2005.  Harbor Habitat celebrated its 100th home and 15th anniversary in 2010, and during all of the festivity planning, Earl completed multiple projects that was requested of him. 

Some people volunteer out of guilt, some as a way to pass the time, still others because it's the right thing to do.  But Earl is compelled to volunteer because the work needs to be done.  This is very apparent through his weekly involvement with the Thursday Crew.  He wants to be part of the solution rather than one to complain about a problem.  His unassuming manner immediately puts everyone he meets at ease.  He makes the most complex tasks simple and the mundane meaningful.  He has a way of making each person he comes into contact with feel like they're the most important person in the room.  He's the kind of guy who makes you want to do more, to be a better person, not out of guilt, not to pass the time but because there's work to be done and somebody's got to do it.

Thank you Earl for your dedication to Harbor Habitat for Humanity and our Thursday Crew!