October 27, 2022
"Volunteering gives me the same feeling I get working at Cox; I don’t work FOR someone; I work WITH someone … Together like family.” That’s what Kirk Freeman had to say about volunteering at ReStore – Habitat Roanoke Valley.
Kirk joined Cox 32 years ago as a Field Service Tech III and was always looking at what’s next for his career and the company. He is now a Fiber Tech I, working on the next innovation and pushing Cox into the future.
We caught up with Kirk, to hear how he is making his mark in the community, why volunteering is important to him, and how you can get involved.
Here’s what he had to say!
What is ReStore – Habitat Roanoke Valley?
ReStore Habitat is a non-profit store and donation center selling used and some new items to repair, update, or decorate your home.
Why do you volunteer with this organization?
I started volunteering when I was recovering from an injury and was out on medical leave, during 2016-2017. That was when I volunteered to do pricing at ReStore … It was a great fit. The folks were very friendly; it reminded me of Cox – great people! The goal of ReStore is to simply help people. That is one thing that I really liked about volunteering there.
How is your volunteer work impactful to the community?
One of the things I love is that sometimes I work with people who are actually having their homes built. If they can't really work on the building site itself, they come into ReStore and help with pricing or putting items on shelves to sell. I also appreciate the fact that they're building their own foundation but what really makes it special for me is that some of the people that are getting homes are in my old neighborhood, where I lived for 30 years.
How do you feel after volunteering?
It kind of feels like when I started working at Cox; you're not working with fellow employees; you are working with family and friends. I have also helped some of my coworkers from Habitat ReStore with projects at their homes. It really feels like the good old days when, after work, we could be talking and someone might say, “ Hey, I need help with my fence.” … and you go help them with their fence. I asked for help on my roof, and they came over and helped me with my roof. When someone needs help, you help them … That’s how I was raised.
Can others get involved with ReStore?
Yes, just find a Habitat ReStore near you, and be sure to shop there first when you’re in the market for home furnishings or construction supplies. You will get a great deal, plus the money from your purchases will help to build more Habitat Houses, or you can donate things that you have lying around the house that are still in good shape. Donating and buying is a tax write-off. Also, ReStore will come to pick it up for free.
Across the Cox family of businesses, we’re empowering our people to build a better future for the next generation. Our social impact initiative, known as 34 by 34, is aimed at removing obstacles and expanding access to programs to help 34 million people live more prosperous lives by 2034. Learn more at www.coxenterprises.com.
