Lou Behrens started volunteering with Habitat in 2014 after retiring, but his connection began earlier. “I was first involved with Habitat for Humanity when my son did his Eagle Scout project,” he said, creating an informational video series for new homeowners.
After a 33-year career as an engineer at IBM, working in hardware systems development, Lou was looking for something meaningful to do next, something worthy of his time and challenging to accomplish.
He found it with the Rochester Build Crew, a group of like-minded volunteers who travel throughout southern Goodhue County, building homes in communities like Pine Island, Kenyon, Cannon Falls, and Zumbrota. Their lastest project is located in Kenyon — where they work with Kenyon-Wanamingo High School students on the construction site. Lou finds there is something especially rewarding about working alongside others to accomplish a shared, worthwhile goal.
For Lou, the most meaningful moments take place during home dedication ceremonies. A home dedication marks the completion of a construction project and celebrates the journey of building a safe, stable place for a family to call home. In contrast, groundbreaking ceremonies are held at the very beginning of the construction process, symbolizing the official start of building a new home. Both groundbreaking ceremonies and home dedications typically include a blessing and an introduction of the partner family, highlighting their story and connection to the home. However, the home dedication is especially significant, as it is the moment when the new homeowners are welcomed into their finished home and receive the keys, marking the start of a new chapter in their lives..
“My favorite memories are the house dedications. It is always joyful seeing the families realize the house they have been looking forward to.”
When he’s not on a build site, Lou stays busy in his woodworking shop or deepening his knowledge of construction so he can contribute even more. He also volunteers with Scouts, the American Legion, and the Rochester Film Group. You might spot him out on the bike trail.
Thank you, Lou!