Kim Bowers joined us for Women Build almost seven years ago and she has been volunteering with us ever since! She joins Gary Kratz every Wednesday to help him out with critical repairs. Here is our interview with her below.
How did you first get involved with Sea Island Habitat For Humanity or another Habitat affiliate?
KB: I worked my first Women’s Build with Sea Island Habitat probably 6-7 years ago. Loved it. I continued to volunteer for Women’s Build until I recently retired. At the 2023 Women’s Build – I learned from Charlotte that Gary Kratz really needed some help in the critical home repair program. I now work with Gary each Wednesday.
How long have you been volunteering with SIHH or other Habitat affiliates?
KB: 6-7 years
What is your favorite job to do when volunteering?
KB: Although they are hard work – I like handicap ramps the best. You know you are serving a critical need for the individual and you can see the physical results of your work by day/week’s end. A good example is we just completed ramps for two recent amputees – you know that is making a huge difference in their lives.
What is your least favorite job to do when volunteering?
KB: Probably anything involving shovel work. Ugh.
What is your fondest memory with Sea Island Habitat?
KB: Besides seeing the smiles on homeowners faces at the end of a project - we often get to see all kinds of animals – homeowner pets, etc. So far – we’ve seen a pet turkey, peacock, pig, several friendly dogs and cats. Thankfully no snakes!
What are your other favorite hobbies outside of working for us for free?
KB: I am a scuba diver and volunteer as a diver at the South Carolina Aquarium.
What is your weirdest or most interesting talent or fact about yourself?
KB: On December 2023 – myself and 3 friends became “Ultimate Outsiders” – an achievement when you visit each state park in South Carolina. Fantastic experience and I learned so much more about our state!
If you could acquire a magical skill, what would it be and why?
KB: Be invisible. Would be pretty cool to watch people from afar.
