Michael: Homestretch Workshop Volunteer

1. You could share your valuable time and skills with many deserving non-profits. Why do you choose to donate your time to the International Institute of Minnesota? 

The first thing that shows up for me is the feeling I get when I walk into the Institute, seeing all the families buzzing around, the hope that beams off their faces and that same hope mirrored with all the staff back towards them.  

2. Why is this work important to you?

Michael Dietrich teaching New Americans during the Homestretch Workshop at the International Institute of Minnesota.

For homeownership, we have a saying that “If your home life is not working your life is not working.” After meeting with thousands of families representing over 41 countries throughout my career, the same answers about the importance home ownership always comes up: legacy for the family, stability and feeling rooted. It truly is an honor to be part of that journey for families and feel it is essential to our community’s future.

3. Can you share a memory of a volunteer moment that helped make this work rewarding for you? 

Many flood my mind but helping Jerusalem and her family with their first home after she attended the class, and the tears of joy they expressed. Their humility and appreciation was beyond rewarding, as it taught me exactly how I want to show up in the world.

4. What kind of impact do you hope your volunteer work has?

I hope to simply inspire one family at a time that would not have been moved to continue with their dream of homeownership in this country and believing in them when perhaps hope was not with them that day.