Eagle's Trace Volunteers Make Their Mark in Houston

HOUSTON, TX---April is National Volunteer Appreciation Month, and at Eagle's Trace, there is much to celebrate.
More than 225 residents are enrolled in the volunteer program of the Erickson Living retirement community located in West Houston.  Last year, these goodwill ambassadors gave 30,096 hours of service at the campus and in the surrounding community.
To share their time and talents, groups such as the resident-led Community Outreach Committee coordinate projects with local and national nonprofit organizations, religious institutions and schools. 
Residents like Don Gaddy continue to contribute in the greater Houston area through their own affiliations.  A resident of Texas since 1968, Mr. Gaddy retired as an oil drilling contractor in 1993.
On any given Monday morning, Mr. Gaddy can be found removing garage door openers, fans and other electrical household items.  Why?  He is on the "Deconstruct Team" for the Northwest Harris County Chapter of Habitat for Humanity (www.habitatnwhc.org), where he has volunteered since 2006.
The team deconstructs houses and other structures as a green alternative to traditional demolition.  Certain materials and appliances can be reused, recycled, and resold with proceeds benefiting Habitat for Humanity.
"During my first three and a half years with Habitat for Humanity, I helped with the construction side of new homes so I've done a little bit of everything," stated Mr. Gaddy.  "The Northwest Harris County Chapter is a wonderful organization with a tremendous mission."
Mr. Gaddy now volunteers three half-days per week.  "I've worked all my life so being involved with Habitat for Humanity keeps me very active," described Mr. Gaddy, who moved to Eagle's Trace in 2006 with his wife, Joyce.
In fact, he was recently recognized as the chapter's "Volunteer of the Month" in September, 2013.
For Mr. Gaddy, though, the service is more than sharing his expertise and performing physical activity.  "It's really about the people," he stated.  "I volunteer with a great team, and it makes us feel good to know that we contribute to local families who will now have a decent place to live." 

About Eagle's Trace:  Eagle's Trace is one of seventeen continuing care retirement communities managed by Erickson Living.  Located in Houston, Texas, the scenic 70-acre campus is home to more than 600 residents.  Eagle's Trace is the ideal greater Houston retirement destination offering a true sense of community, convenience beyond compare and a sensible financial structure.

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