A graphic designer turned Development Director, Makensie has spent the last five years working in Latin America with the goal of supporting efforts to reduce the housing deficit through her work at both Habitat for Humanity Chile and Habitat for Humanity Guatemala. We sat down to ask her about her HFH experience and how she is feeling in Guatemala.

Why Habitat Guatemala?

My interest with Habitat for Humanity originally started with a simple internet search before the end of my college career. I studied both Spanish & Graphic Design and wanted a way to combine my two interests with a non-profit focus. When I discovered a job listing for Habitat Guatemala’s Communications Coordinator I jumped at the opportunity. Just a week after graduating I found myself in Guatemala, and I haven’t moved back since.

My interest in Habitat Guatemala’s work started as a desire to discover a new culture and help it tackle its problems, but has evolved into a passion project – getting to really know a vulnerable population, discovering their needs, listening to their ideas about how to face their challenges, and then help in creating a solution.

My Habitat Experience:

Habitat for Humanity has taught me that it takes a village to continue making this world a better place. Without individuals willing to donate their time, energy, financial resources, brain-power, etc. over the last 40 years the success of building over 115,000 housing solutions in Guatemala would not have been possible. I admire the power in connecting individuals for a mutual cause and witnessing the positive impact that it has on lives across the globe.

What do you most like about your position?

Throughout occupying different roles within the Habitat family (communications, volunteer management, donor relations, etc.) I have had the opportunity to form relationships with many talented, giving, and kind-hearted individuals across the world.  It has been my privilege (and joy) to connect volunteers with projects that are near and dear to their hearts.

Apart from being able to help create a tangible solution to a need that exists, my favorite part of being involved with Habitat is its ability to connect individuals of diverse backgrounds, cultures, languages, etc. and unite us all in our desire and journey towards having a safe and adequate place to call home.

Want to get in touch with Makensie and learn more about the impact of your donation? Write her at donor@habitatguate.org