 Dottie Stackhouse, Habitat volunteer since 2005
"Dottie joined the Family Selection Committee several years ago and has remained a dedicated participant. Her compassion for the many applicants we interview and her commitment to fair and equitable evaluations enable this committee's work to excel. Dottie embraces the committee dynamic which affords a most enjoyable time as we carry out our responsibilities and orient new members. Dottie's volunteer efforts extend into the Family Support Committee where she has been one of its longest standing members. Her dedication to the partner families who she mentors is second to none. Her concern for partner families even spills over to those who she isn't mentoring, showing just how much Dottie cares about the LHFH families as she goes above and beyond to help ensure each partner becomes a successful homeowner. Recently, Dottie was very instrumental in helping our newest partner family furnish her bedroom as well as other rooms in her home, with donations from her friends and neighbors. Dottie faithfully attends both committees' meetings and has great insight to share. Dottie has already stepped up and volunteered to mentor the next partner family. We wish we could clone her" - Pamela McGraw, chair of Family Selection Cmte and Stephanie Byers, chair of Family Support Cmte.
LHFH: Tell us a little about yourself…
Dottie: I grew up as a military Brat on Army Forts in four different countries. Living in many different places, without any roots, made me want to settle in one place. My Dad retired from the Army here in Northern Virginia where I began a long and successful career in architecture and commercial construction management.
I first settled in Falls Church but as years went by I ventured farther west until I finally ended up in Lansdown where I live with my partner and our 2 dogs. Two years ago I retired after a long career managing the construction of many buildings and fascinating projects. I participated in the construction of the Howard Hughes Medical Institute Janelia Farm project and the Plaza America project in Reston. Before I retired I organized a volunteer day with the office staff to volunteer at the Habitat for Humanity home building site in St. Louis which was a huge success.
I love spending time with my family, and have interests in design, landscaping, golf, TV, reading and animals. I have volunteered with Big Brothers/Big Sisters, Habitat for Humanity and MADD.
LHFH: What was your first volunteering experience?
Dottie: I joined the Big Brothers/Big Sisters organization in the early 80’s and was a big sister to a wonderful and vivacious 12 year old little girl. I spent lots of time with her and we did fun activities that weren’t available to her without her Mom in her life. She is now a mother with daughters of her own and I hope she’s doing those same activities with her girls.
LHFH: How did you become interested in Loudoun Habitat for Humanity
Dottie: My partner had been a member of LHFH for more than a year and when she spoke of the families she just lit up and her enthusiasm was contagious. I wanted to light up my life too so I joined the Family Selection Committee. After meeting the families that were selected to partner with LHFH and receive a new home I decided to also join the Family Support Committee where I have helped to guide two families during their journey to home ownership
LHFH: How long have you been volunteering here?
Dottie: I joined the Family Selection Committee about five years ago.
LHFH: What three things do you cherish most about your volunteer experience at Loudoun Habitat?
Dottie: Three things? The families, the families, and the families! I love meeting the families, getting to know them and seeing the joy on their faces and the hope in their hearts at the groundbreaking ceremonies and again at the dedications of the new homes. Watching Gamil Mosleh get on his knees at the groundbreaking ceremony and kiss the ground of what would someday be his new home brought tears to my eyes.
LHFH: What have you learned/gained as a volunteer?
Dottie: I have learned that all of us are the same in our hearts and that it's only circumstances that make us different.
LHFH: Any advice for prospective volunteers?
Dottie: Come prepared to make new friends and have you life enriched. Although our main focus is on constructing new homes for partner families, LHFH is far more than just construction... there is something for everyone.
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