Steve Biolsi, Construction Supervisor

Steve Biolsi has wanted a practical outlet for his idealism since he was in college at SUNY Albany, where he majored in Political Science because he felt it would keep him on track for his goals. Which were, he says with a laugh, "to change the world." Steve pursued his beliefs by joining Americorps National Service and choosing Peninsula Habitat for Humanity in Redwood City as his first work place.

At the Peninsula affiliate he was trained in both construction and team leadership. "I knew nothing about either one," he says. "They basically broke me down and then put me back together as a construction supervisor. It was an amazing experience." He remained at Peninsula for two Americorps stints of one year each, and then arrived at Habitat Santa Cruz as an applicant for the Construction Coordinator position.

As the Coordinator he consulted with the Construction Supervisor about the daily construction schedule, organized and assigned tasks to volunteers. It was his responsibility to see that workers had the necessary training and tools to do the job, and also to determine that the work was complete and met professional standards.

When the Construction Supervisor position opened up, it was a natural fit for Steve to take the position. So, what is Steve's greatest satisfaction with Habitat? What keeps him committed? "Results! There is tremendous and instant gratification. You see your work each day. You see your work when it's complete. And you carry with you forever the image of another family that has a better life."