Hamilton, ON (June 25, 2025)
At Habitat for Humanity Hamilton, we are fortunate to work alongside some incredibly talented and devoted volunteers. In this edition of Volunteer Spotlight, we are sharing the story of a volunteer who is all that, and much more. Collin Potter is a longtime volunteer, a former board member, and tireless advocate of Habitat Hamilton. His contributions have helped shape our organization in ways that are still felt strongly today.
Collin first found his way to us by way of referral of another Habitat champion, Walt Bayliss, who you may remember from a past edition of Volunteer Spotlight. Collin joined us for a build day on Kinrade Avenue. He spent much of that day underground, damp proofing foundation walls and laying weeping tile. While laying those tiles, he was also laying the groundwork for what would become an incredibly impactful and important relationship with Habitat that would stretch more than two decades. “Several conversations were had throughout the day with other volunteers, and I could see that Habitat was a good fit for my skill set and my passion to lend a hand when I see a need,” he recalls.
That initial spark led to a ton of future engagement with our cause. Collin joined Habitat Hamilton’s Board of Directors in 2000 and spent 17 years in various roles, including ten years as chair. He helped guide the organization through some of its most formative years, and played a key role in bringing the first ever ReStore to Hamilton. With a background in architecture and construction, Collin brought valuable technical expertise. But he’s quick to point out that what he considers his biggest contribution was his steady, patient leadership and a strong belief in Habitat’s long-term potential. “I could see where we could go and what we could become, but I knew it would take years to reach that level of success.”
Throughout his time with Habitat, Collin also volunteered with the Stoney Creek Soccer Club and Scouts Canada, setting a powerful example that inspired his own children to give back as well. He’s seen firsthand the way volunteering not only builds communities but builds people too. “More than once, volunteers have told me Habitat Hamilton has given them a sense of purpose and connection with others,” he says. And while the goal of building safe and decent homes might seem straightforward, he knows the work behind it is anything but. From overcoming unexpected challenges to assembling the right team of staff, volunteers, and community partners, he’s always believed that collaboration was the key to success.
For those considering getting involved with Habitat Hamilton, Collin offers simple but meaningful advice: find the niche that speaks to you. “Maybe you work in an office and have never set foot on a construction site – but would like to learn. It could be the opportunity for you.” He’s always believed that one small act, like planting a rose in your neighbourhood, can encourage others to do the same.
What Collin appreciates most about Habitat Hamilton is how deeply volunteers can engage in all aspects of the work. “Many non-profits are happy to receive a monetary donation, but it usually ends there,” he says. “At Habitat, you can become actively involved in the day-to-day, whether it’s on the construction site, helping with organizational tasks, or working at the ReStore.”
Collin, possessing a wide variety of building knowledge and experience, went on to have a long, successful career with the City of Hamilton as a building inspector. For the last eight years, he has worked under the Housing Services department with the Ontario Renovates Program. Never straying too far from the charity he helped establish, Collin would go on to offer technical advice on some of Habitat Hamilton’s very own build sites. He also forged a partnership between Habitat Hamilton and the Ontario Renovates Program, whereby Habitat Hamilton would complete the needed work for some Ontario Renovates clients.
Our build team recalls how incredibly generous and gracious he was with his time and wisdom whenever his input was requested at one of our sites. “Collin helped us as much as he could every step of the way in his role with the City. Having him in our corner has helped us in critical moments more times than we can count,” they stated.
Collin is set to retire from his role as a building inspector with the City of Hamilton soon. Along with our heartfelt recognition for his time serving Habitat Hamilton, we’d also like to take a moment to sincerely congratulate and honour him for an incredible career of public service. His dedication to improving this city – through both his professional role and his volunteer work – has left a permanent mark on our organization and on the lives of countless families in our community. Collin’s combination of knowledge, skills, and desire to always be of service has been an absolute asset to Hamilton.
Collin, we thank you for everything you’ve accomplished over the course of your successful and deeply meaningful career. We wish you a retirement filled with joy, pride, and sense of satisfaction for all you’ve helped build.
If you’re interested in volunteering with Habitat Hamilton, check out our current opportunities here.