Who are your heroes? Many of us grew up idolizing celebrities, great thinkers, world leaders - people who seemed to have it all. At some point we realize that the people we venerate as children may have admirable abilities, but that this alone may not make them worthy of our adulation. This doesn’t mean that there aren’t heroes out there – we just need to change our definition of heroism.

Last week, we presented Carol and George Bauer with Habitat’s Second Mile Award, recognizing their extraordinary service and support. The Bauers are celebrated philanthropists, but their leadership and commitment extends well beyond their generous contributions. They are driven by a desire to help “level the playing field” and they believe in getting personally involved in the causes that they support. Carol and George are regular participants in Habitat builds, both here in Fairfield County and elsewhere through Habitat International. They honor us with their faith in our organization, belief in our mission, and participation in our work!

Every day at Habitat CFC is a mix of new families aspiring to home ownership, families who have successfully navigated the process and are thriving in their homes, new building possibilities and their impact on neighborhoods, and the many homes already in varied stages of construction. None of this would happen without the support, leadership and commitment of people like Carol and George Bauer. The Bauers are not big on recognition, but they sure sound like heroes to me!

         Sincerely,