Meet Gary & Ken | Peterborough North ReStore & Tool Library Volunteers

Welcome to Day 4 of our Volunteer Appreciation Week celebration! Today, we’re heading to the Peterborough North ReStore, a busy hub of activity and home to not just incredible volunteers, but also the Peterborough Tool Library, operated with the major support of passionate community members. 

Two standout volunteers – Gary and Ken – bring their time, talents, and big hearts to this space every week. Whether they’re testing electrical items or maintaining tools for the community to borrow, their work helps power our ReStore and build brighter futures. 

Meet Gary 

After retiring and moving to Peterborough from Mississauga eight years ago, Gary quickly discovered that retirement wasn’t just about relaxing, it was also an opportunity to give back. At the gentle suggestion of his wife, he decided to volunteer a couple of days a week. Six years later, he’s still a dedicated part of the Peterborough North ReStore family. 

Gary spends his volunteer shifts testing electrical and electronic equipment, helping make sure items are safe, functional, and ready for a new home – and staying out of the landfill in the process. 

“When I’m not volunteering, you’ll probably find me outside – this past winter I was busy shoveling snow most days!” he laughs. “But I also enjoy bowling, golfing, and puttering around the house.” 

He says the best part of volunteering is the people: “The staff and volunteers are respectful, friendly, and appreciative. I leave every shift knowing I’ve made an impact.” 

Meet Ken  

The Peterborough North ReStore is also home to the Peterborough Tool Library, which helps community members borrow tools for DIY home projects, gardening, and repairs. The Tool Library has been part of Habitat PKR since 2022 — but Ken has been with the program even longer. 

“I started volunteering with the Tool Library in 2018,” Ken shares. “When it became part of Habitat PKR, it felt like a natural fit.” 

Ken’s role is hands-on: cleaning, checking, and repairing tools so they’re safe and ready to be borrowed. He also enjoys chatting with the tool library members and helping them plan out their home projects. 

“I love being around friendly people – staff, volunteers, and members of the public,” he says. “And I know that what we’re doing supports affordable housing in Peterborough, which is more important now than ever.” 

When Ken’s not at the Tool Library, he’s volunteering as a Wheels of Hope driver for the Canadian Cancer Society, reading, camping, or spending time with his grandson. 

His message for future volunteers? “Please consider joining the Habitat team. It’s fun, rewarding, and you’ll be part of something that truly makes a difference.” 

Thank you to Gary, Ken, and all the volunteers who keep our Peterborough North ReStore and Tool Library thriving. We’re so grateful for you. 

👉 Want to join this amazing team of volunteers? Click here to learn more!