Alex Eilers and Kurt Guttensohn, May 2009 Habitat Heroes

Top: In spite of the cold, wet weather, Alex leads a group of volunteers on the first weekend of the Spring 2009 Build. Bottom: Kurt and a fellow volunteer discuss the process of roofing a house before getting to work.

Q & A with Habitat Hero Alex Eilers

1. How long have you lived in Memphis? Since 1990.

2. How long have you volunteered with Habitat? Since 2000.

3. How did you get involved with Habitat? In 1999 my father passed away - needless to say it was a difficult time in my life. A dear friend of mine invited me to volunteer with her on a Habitat build... and I was hooked.

4. What kind of activities have you participated in during your time as a volunteer? I have helped with construction, special events (Car Show, Tool Box Bash) and the ReStore. I also served on the Board of Directors.

5. Why do you volunteer your time with Habitat? Because Habitat is the kind of organization that you can put your blood, sweat and tears into and you still feel that you've gained more than you've given.

6. Do you have a favorite Habitat moment you would like to share?
I have many, many favorite moments.

7. Do you have any personal details you would like to add? where you work - Pink Palace Museum; how many kids - 0; what do you like to do on your free time - rest, make soap, and ride my bike.

Q & A with Habitat Hero Kurt Guttensohn

1. How long have you lived in Memphis? Since Jan 1994 - 15+ years.

2. How long have you volunteered with Habitat? Since 1995.

3. How did you get involved with Habitat? I called the office to see if I could volunteer at the next build. I came out and had a blast working on the house. Near the end of the build, I was asked to join the Construction Committee.

4. What kind of activities have you participated in during your time as a volunteer? Mostly I have worked on the Builds. I have helped out at the Car Shows, Tool Box Bashes (auctions), and Restore clean up and upgrades.

5. Why do you volunteer your time with Habitat? The way it makes me feel. I get a good feeling knowing, that no matter how little, I am helping out and making a difference. The people you meet are great. You always pick up new ways to do things and new skills.

6. Do you have a favorite Habitat moment you would like to share?
This is a tough one. There are so many rewarding moments with Habitat. I think some of my favorites would be when we finish a house and get to see the family taking the keys at the dedication.

7. Do you have any personal details you would like to add? I have worked for First Data since 2002 and am a partner with Break Away Consulting since 2005.