Michael Patrick fundraising for Vietnam - '20 Thomas Team
Michael Patrick
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From Michael Patrick
I am seeking contributions toward Habitat's efforts to build more durable homes and latrines for rural families in need in Hoa Binh, Vietnam.
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About Me
As many of you know, I am a New York lawyer by training who left the law firm and banking world 9 years ago, discouraged by a feeling of meaninglessness in my work (to some, it looked more like a mid-life crisis!). I was hungry for a way to use my time and training in a way that would add value to the world. Fortunately, I found a fit with Habitat for Humanity International; I moved oversees to work as Habitat's lawyer for the Europe and Central Asia Office (later Europe, Middle East and Africa), because I believed it was a job that would allow me to help real people lift themselves out of poverty housing. I have never looked back.
My role at Habitat recently changed--I moved back to the U.S. and I now lead the global Governance, Risk Management and Compliance function. Though I am grateful and excited about the new role, the truth is that when I am working behind a desk, it is harder to feel the positive difference my work continues to make to real people.
I turned 50 a couple months ago, and I resolved that the least I can do is to participate in a Habitat Global Village build at least once a year until my body says no.. This year, it's Vietnam, specifically in a village outside Hoa Binh, where Habitat is building latrines and more durable homes for rural families. In my experience, it is by working on a Habitat build -- carrying bricks and nailing support beams, sid by side with the future owners and the neighbors -- that I am reinvigorated and reinspired by Habitat's mission.
Each person decides his or her own ability to contribute, depending on where they're at in their life. If you can contribute this year to my Vietnam build, your contribution will go to support Habitat's work to help these families in need. In January 2021, I plan to lead a team of my own (in either Nepal or Malawi), and would welcome your interest in joining that team. And if you are interested in joining a team yourself, please check out https://www.habitat.org/volunteer/travel-and-build/global-village/how-to-apply.
More Info
While poverty has fallen in Vietnam in recent years, many ethnic minorities and those living in rural areas remain poor. Urban poverty is also a challenge, as towns and cities swell with the influx of people drawn by economic opportunities.
Many homes in Vietnam were built informally and without adequate supporting infrastructure. About a quarter of the country’s housing stock is substandard or temporary.
Habitat for Humanity Vietnam, established in 2001, specializes in the implementation of sustainable, community-based shelter and water and sanitation solutions. It has experience in rehabilitating and repairing properties damaged by the severe weather that frequently strikes the country’s long coastline. Habitat also works with microfinance networks so families can save and access credit for home improvements, a speedy way to help thousands of families improve their sanitation and housing.
Global Village is Habitat for Humanity’s international volunteer program. Teams travel to over 40 countries to work alongside communities, build housing solutions, and experience local culture. Our goal is to change the lives of the people we serve, as well as the lives of the volunteers.
To join a team or learn more, visit www.habitat.org/gv.
About Habitat for Humanity International
Driven by the vision that everyone needs a decent place to live, Habitat for Humanity began in 1976 as a grassroots effort on a community farm in southern Georgia. The housing organization has since grown to become a leading global nonprofit working in more than 1,300 communities throughout the U.S. and in more than 70 countries. Families and individuals in need of a hand up partner with Habitat for Humanity to build or improve a place they can call home. Habitat homeowners help build their own homes alongside volunteers and pay an affordable mortgage. Through financial support, volunteering or adding a voice to support affordable housing, everyone can help families achieve the strength, stability and self-reliance they need to build better lives for themselves. Through shelter, we empower. To learn more, visit habitat.org.
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