Habitat Spotlight: Meet Deb

Deb Schmadeke, a former marketing coordinator for a local nonprofit and special education teacher, first heard about Habitat for Humanity of Omaha through her church, but didn’t begin volunteering with the organization until her friend and Habitat Omaha staff member, Kathy Wells, encouraged her to get involved. Deb was raised on a farm east of Omaha in Cass County, Nebraska. Her first teaching job out of college was in Omaha with Westside Public Schools. Omaha has been her home for over 38 years.

Deb has been giving her time to numerous nonprofits for the past 30 years. The Junior League of Omaha served as the catalyst for her becoming more involved in volunteerism.

“My volunteer work with Habitat has been primarily fundraising. I have served in the following capacities: The Habitat Gala Committee, Habitat Gala Chair, Women’s Power Luncheon Committee, Women’s Power Luncheon Committee Chair and Builder’s Blitz Hospitality House Co-Chair.”

Deb starts her day with two cups of coffee. Her song of the week is “Coming Home” by Keith Urban. An interesting fact about Deb is that she used be to a traveling performer.

“The Spring before my Freshman year in college, I auditioned for a singing group called ‘The Young Nebraskans,’” Deb says. “I was selected and spent three weeks traveling through four European countries performing in various cities.”

“Homeownership for me has always been about love of family and safe haven from the outside world. It has always been a source of comfort knowing I have some place to come home to every day. It is something I have never taken for granted and I’m truly grateful.”

When Deb first started volunteering with Habitat Omaha, she was surprised by how well the staff get along and their ability to manage such a massive volunteer force.

“They make volunteers feel welcome and appreciated no matter how large or small the job,” she says.

Deb is proud to volunteer at Habitat Omaha because “the organization is helping families achieve the dream of owning their own home. It is also humbling and gratifying to meet the families and hear their stories.”