Under a blistering sun that pushed temperatures near 90 degrees, STV’s Philadelphia team swapped blueprints for hammers. Their mission: to partner with Habitat for Humanity in building not just homes, but futures for families in need.
Habitat for Humanity is an organization committed to building strength, stability and self-reliance through shelter.
Numbers tell a powerful story of the STV team’s impact. Nine fence post holes dug. Two thousand eight hundred pounds of concrete moved—35 bags at 80 pounds each. Approximately 40 cubic feet of dirt were relocated. Inside, meticulous insulation installation promised future energy efficiency. These aren’t just statistics; they’re building blocks of hope, each one bringing a family closer to their dream home. The STV team’s expertise turned sweat and effort into tangible progress, demonstrating how professional skills can directly improve lives.
“I’m proud to be part of a team that works to improve the community,” said Autumn Gargiule, PE, project manager at STV. “Knowing our hard work will directly impact a family’s life is incredibly rewarding.”
Despite the heat, which necessitated the consumption of more than 36 bottles of water, the team’s spirit remained high. Their efforts went beyond mere physical labor; they were building the foundation for a family’s future, providing them with the security and stability of home ownership.
The day was not just about construction work. It was an opportunity for team building, learning and unexpected connections. STV volunteers made new friends, gained insights into Habitat for Humanity’s operations and even met a former architect who had previously collaborated with STV on projects through the Douglassville office.
“It just goes to show how interconnected our community really is,” said Timothy Mason, CCM, STV vice president. “We started the day with an empty yard and ended with holes dug, post-installed, prep work for the concrete patio underway and relationships built. It’s humbling to see the lasting impact that our teamwork achieved.”
This volunteer day exemplified STV’s commitment to community service and highlighted the impact that professionals can have when they apply their skills to charitable causes. The team’s efforts will contribute to Habitat for Humanity Philadelphia’s Homeownership Program, helping a first-time homebuyer achieve their dream of owning a safe, affordable home.
As the STV team called it a day, tired but fulfilled, they left behind more than installed insulation and fence posts. Marc Preim, PE, vice president and area manager at STV, said, “Experiences like this remind me why I chose this profession – to create positive change. It is a powerful testament to what we can achieve when we come together as a community.”
