What Our Better Angels Teaches Us About Community and Service

Written By Erica Kelble

At Habitat for Humanity, our work is more than building homes—it’s about building hope, community, and brighter futures. Our mission thrives when we lead with the values that define us—guiding every nail, every conversation, and every act of kindness. That’s why we’re diving into Our Better Angels by Jonathan Reckford, a powerful exploration of the seven virtues that fuel our work: kindness, community, empowerment, joy, respect, generosity, and service.

Why Our Better Angels?

Jonathan Reckford, CEO of Habitat for Humanity International, offers more than just stories of transformation through Habitat’s work. He provides a roadmap for how these timeless virtues can inspire us to create change in our communities. Each chapter is filled with real-life examples of lives transformed—not only for those receiving help but for those giving it.

In the video below, Reckford shares his inspiration for writing Our Better Angels.


Living Out the Virtues

At Habitat for Humanity, these virtues aren’t just words on a page, however, they are at the core of everything we do:

  • Kindness: Showing compassion to every volunteer, donor, and family we meet.

  • Community: Building more than homes—building connections and a sense of belonging.

  • Empowerment: Offering families the tools and resources to build their own stability.

  • Joy: Celebrating every step forward, no matter how small.

  • Respect: Honoring the dignity and worth of all individuals.

  • Generosity: Sharing time, talent, and treasure to create lasting impact.

  • Service: Giving of ourselves to improve the lives of others.

We see all of these virtues come to life at the construction sites, our ReStores, and in every interaction with the families and communities we serve.

Reflections and Key Takeaways

On February 27th, volunteers, community members, staff, and a board member from different Habitat for Humanity affiliates in New York gathered to discuss Our Better Angels. With diverse perspectives in the room, we shared our personal journeys, why each of us became involved with Habitat, and explored how the book’s powerful message will inspire a deeper commitment to our mission.

To capture the impact of our conversation, we asked everyone to write down their key takeaway from the book and our discussion. These reflections are showcased in the photos below.

Joy is a choice

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Habitat is all positive outcomes #evidencebased

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Habitat = Empowerment

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Home, communities, and hope

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Habitat is all about people

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LOVE

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Joy is a choice - Habitat is all positive outcomes #evidencebased - Habitat = Empowerment - Home, communities, and hope - Habitat is all about people - LOVE -

How You Can Get Involved

We invite you to join us in embracing these virtues. Whether through volunteering, donating, or simply sharing the stories of those whose lives have been touched by Habitat, your involvement makes a difference.

Read Our Better Angels, share your story with us, or even host your own book club using our discussion guide. Learn more about where you can find the book in the Capital District here. Together, we can be the embodiment of Our Better Angels—driving our mission forward and showing kindness to our neighbors, one act at a time.

Explore other upcoming events with Habitat Capital District and make sure you don’t miss the next one by subscribing to our e-newsletter!

Erica Kelble
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