Habitat Spotlight: Meet Turner

Turner (pictured above, far left) has been with Habitat for Humanity of Omaha for 6 years. He is a proud Iowan who has roots across the Missouri River in Council Bluffs.

“I was born and raised in the area, usually crossing the river for food and fun—my father was actually a North O police officer so we have some family ties to this area. It’s interesting to compare his experiences and perspectives of the area with my own,” he says.

Turner works in Habitat Omaha’s volunteer services department. His primary role is to ensure that volunteers have a well-coordinated and meaningful experience.

“My work week is usually a cocktail of orientations, correspondence, appreciation, outreach, and project management. Occasionally over lunch I’ll school Shaun [a colleague] in some basketball,” he jokes.

Turner’s essential work item is a sense of humor. He is also a hobby homesteader and says, “My wife and I are the proud parents of chickens, ducks, and bees! Hoping to add a couple potbellied pigs this summer.” His song of the week is “Southern Nights” by Glen Campbell.

When Turner first joined the team, he was inspired by the amount of support from the community looking to be part of the change. He was also “humbled by the amount of time it takes to create substantial change in a neighborhood.”

To those considering joining Habitat Omaha, Turner advises, “Jump in! It’s amazing to witness and learn from all the people, organizations, and relationships that intersect when talking about affordable housing in our city.”