Time off to do good work

Seeing a Web announcement calling for involvement in the rebuilding after Hurricane Katrina, Diane and Fitz Wickham left their home in Atlanta to volunteeer at a Habitat Operation Home Delivery build in Jackson, Miss.

“We both had a strong sense we wanted to do something. We felt a step or two removed being in Atlanta,” said Fitz. “Everything there is dry and clean.”

The Wickhams are familiar with Habitat’s mission and house-building projects. They have volunteered with Habitat through their church several times before. Because they believe in Habitat’s mission, they decided that participating in its Operation Home Delivery project would be a great way to help out.

“It’s a tangible thing—you can put your hands on this,” said Fitz, motioning toward the house frame standing behind him.

Like many others, the Wickhams have friends and family who have been devastated by Katrina’s disastrous effects. Diane’s cousin, who had a home in New Orleans, has lost everything. Fitz’s old professor lived in uptown New Orleans, and his home was flooded with several feet of water on the first floor.

Fitz’s employer in Atlanta gives employees time away from work each year to volunteer for projects like this one with Habitat for Humanity. “It’s great,” he said. “Five days a year we can take time off to do good work wherever it’s needed.”