Marvin Chasek named "Local Hero"

Mr. Marvin Chasek of New Providence, a dedicated volunteer with the Habitat for Humanity of Greater Plainfield & Middlesex County, was recently named a “Local Hero” by the Bank of America Charitable Foundation, Inc.  The Foundation awarded a $5,000 grant to the Habitat for Humanity of Greater Plainfield & Middlesex County in recognition of Mr. Chasek’s dedicated service of 18 years as Construction Supervisor.  A public awards ceremony was held on November 1, 2011 at the Newark Museum.

Each year, Bank of America looks for a few good heroes: heroes who champion causes vital to their communities; heroes who inspire others to get involved; and heroes who have special and significant impact on individuals, families, or communities.

“To us here at Habitat of Plainfield/Middlesex, Marvin exemplifies the highest standards in community service,” says Rev. Jeremy Montgomery, Executive Director.
Mr. Chasek had been the head of construction for the Habitat for Humanity of Greater Plainfield & Middlesex County affiliate for the past 18 years. He served as job site supervisor, materials purchaser, group coordinator, and construction committee chairman. Mr. Chasek’s fellow volunteers and partner homeowners have come to see him as not just a supervisor but as “the force that breathes life into the construction of homes.” Under his leadership, the Greater Habitat for Humanity of Greater Plainfield & Middlesex County affiliate completed 33 homes for needy partner families.

“There is life after retirement,” comments Chasek during his acceptance speech at the awards ceremony.  “I showed up at Habitat on my first day after retirement from Bell Labs, and I thank Habitat for all that it has done for me over the years.”
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Mr. Chasek’s nomination for the award was submitted by Habitat of Plainfield/Middlesex’s Executive Director, Rev. Jeremy Montgomery.  In doing so, Mr. Chasek is described as energetic and generous, someone who has devoted countless hours to ensure that homes are built properly and safely while keeping costs at a minimum. Nicknamed “St. Marvin” by his fellow volunteers because of his pleasant demeanor and heartfelt dedication, Mr. Chasek has been an inspiration to others and quietly advanced the task of turning lumber, nails, and sheet rock into homes for those in need.

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Since 1989, 33 homes have been built by Habitat of Plainfield/Middlesex, all built 100% by volunteers using tax deductible donations of money and materials.  This past summer, Habitat of Plainfield/Middlesex has broken ground on its 34th home in Plainfield on East Sixth Street. 

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To learn more about Habitat, to volunteer, or to donate, please contact the GPHFH office at (908) 769-5292 or visit their website at www.habitatgpmc.org.

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