Drew Farr is a junior at Webb School of Knoxville. He is 17 years old and has been volunteering with Knoxville Habitat for Humanity to lead shed builds. His family is actively involved in Habitat and his father, Skip Farr (pictured at left with him), is a long-time board member and volunteer. Many Green & BluePrints readers may remember the story of Lucas, Drew's younger brother, who has contributed a portion of his allowance to Knoxville Habitat for Humanity in the past.

Drew's volunteerism with Knoxville Habitat for Humanity is enabling him to pursue his Eagle Scout Badge, the highest designation available in Boy Scouting, which he will complete in the next few months. He tells us more about his motivation to give his time to Habitat. 

Q: Why did you decide to get involved with Knoxville Habitat for Humanity?

My dad took me to some Habitat builds and home dedications a couple years ago and that really sparked my interest in the organization. I enjoyed seeing a group of people come together to build a house in a weekend and then hand the keys over to someone who might not have a home otherwise.

Q: What interested you in this type of volunteer position?

I see volunteering here as a great way to benefit the Knoxville community, gain invaluable building experience that I would not otherwise have, and it allows me to step out of my comfort zone. Once I started, I was hooked. Habitat for Humanity is a great organization and I really just enjoy working and being around these people.

Q: What kind of tasks did you do while volunteering for Habitat?

I have done everything from cleaning and organizing tools to roofing a house. Recently, I have taken on a leadership role to direct others to build sheds.

Q: What did you get out of your experience working with Habitat?

Going into it, I had no idea that I would get as much as I have out of working with Habitat. It has been really fun so far and I have learned a lot about building, using power tools, and how many bent nails it takes to get really good at using a hammer!

Q: Did you volunteer with your peers/friends or is volunteering for Habitat something you sought out on your own?

My friends and I have volunteered with other organizations together before, but volunteering at Habitat has been something I have mostly pursued alone. Every other year Webb students and teachers build a Habitat house. Unfortunately, I couldn't go last year, but I definitely plan on being involved next year.

Q: Is volunteering for Habitat something you would recommend to other students your age?

Volunteering in the Knoxville community is definitely something I would recommend to other students my age, but also to anyone of any age. It doesn't necessarily have to be Habitat, but any organization they feel comfortable with. It could be building houses or playing kickball at the Boys and Girls Club. The biggest thing is to enjoy it.

In addition to his volunteer work at Habitat, Drew enjoys running on Webb's cross country team and wrestling for the Spartans. He is involved with the band, playing trombone and piano, and is part of the school’s debate club. Drew is also active in journalism, peer counseling, and is co-captain of Webb's ultimate Frisbee team. He attends Central Baptist Church of Bearden with his family.

Thank you, Drew, for your volunteer spirit for Knoxville Habitat for Humanity!