Volunteer Spotlight: Marlyn Menzies
At a glance, you might never guess that Marlyn Menzies is 80 years old. A familiar and much-loved presence at the Solano-Napa Habitat ReStore, Marlyn has been generously volunteering her time for more than seven years. Originally from the southern Philippines, Marlyn immigrated to the United States with her family 63 years ago and went on to build an impressive 30-year career as a Realtor. Although she officially retired in 2016, her passion for housing, people, and service never slowed down, and Habitat has been lucky to benefit from her experience and heart ever since.
Marlyn’s journey with Solano-Napa Habitat began in the office, helping with mailings and administrative tasks. She later volunteered on construction projects, including helping build homes in Vallejo and Napa, and even learning to use power tools to help construct patio furniture for veterans housing in Yountville. As transportation became more challenging due to vision loss from macular degeneration, Marlyn found a new and perfect fit at the ReStore, where she now volunteers faithfully every week. Her husband Gene plays a key supporting role by driving her to and from the store, making her continued service possible.
At the ReStore, Marlyn’s decades of real estate and sales experience shine. She arrives early to ensure displays are clean, organized, and inviting, and she has a keen eye for staging furniture and home goods in ways that help customers envision them in their own homes. “I like making things look attractive so people notice them,” Marlyn shared. “When I see someone pick something up and take it to the register, it makes me happy. I know they noticed it.” Her thoughtful approach to merchandising and customer service directly supports ReStore sales, which in turn fund Habitat’s homebuilding and repair programs.
Beyond her skills, Marlyn is known for her kindness, professionalism, and genuine care for everyone she meets. “Marlyn is an inspiring volunteer whose professional sales expertise and refined eye for design directly contribute to increased ReStore revenue and beautifully merchandised displays,” said Lynn Aldersley, ReStore Manager. “Our ReStore is brighter and stronger because Marlyn so generously shares her time and talents with us.”
For Marlyn, volunteering with Habitat is deeply personal. “Housing has always been my business and my passion,” she said. “Helping people find a place to call home is important to me, and Habitat does exactly that.” We are incredibly grateful to Marlyn and Gene for their generosity and commitment. Both are true role models and cherished members of the Solano-Napa Habitat family!
