Donald Haagsma turns over keys to the Lopez family. May 30, 2022. (Photo courtesy of Habitat for Humanity Sarnia-Lambton)Donald Haagsma turns over keys to the Lopez family. May 30, 2022. (Photo courtesy of Habitat for Humanity Sarnia-Lambton)
Sarnia

Habitat for Humanity turns keys over to new president, board chair

The keys to new homes in Forest will be handed out by a new president and board chair of Habitat for Humanity Sarnia-Lambton.

Donald Haagsma marked his final day in the role last week as he turned things over to Martin Vrolyk.

CEO David Waters said Haagsma's "calm and quiet" leadership over the last six years was effective and respected within the organization.

Over the years, Haagsma has turned over a number of keys to local families; his last time doing so as president and board chair was in May.

"There is nothing that compares to the feeling of handing over the keys of a new house to a family that has worked so hard to make their dream of owning a home come true," said Haagsma in a statement. "I'm so proud of what my fellow board members have achieved, in spite of the challenging environment in recent years, and thankful for the opportunity to represent Habitat For Humanity Sarnia-Lambton in our community."

Meanwhile, Waters said although Haagsma was "phenomenal" in the volunteer position, he's excited to see Vrolyk take the reins in this role.

“Since the day I first became involved with Habitat for Humanity in Sarnia-Lambton, I have been inspired by the passion, commitment, and energy of the staff and volunteers," said Vrolyk in a statement. "The need for affordable housing in our area has become more pressing than ever. I am honoured to have a role in our organization’s efforts to make a difference."

There are currently two projects on the go in Forest in order to house two families. There's another build on Davis Street but the project is being built-to-fund.

Waters said they hope to finish the homes in Forest by the end of the year and there's no specific timeline for the Davis Street project.

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