2012 Honoree

On behalf of Habitat for Humanity Saint Louis Staff and Volunteers, we would like to announce the winner of the 2012 Joe F. Castagno (JFC) Construction Leadership Award as Michael "Mike" Basco. Mike was awarded this honor at the 2012 Construction Leadership Kickoff Dinner on Saturday, March 12, 2012 at Sage Restaurant in Soulard.

In March 2000, Mike Basco joined the ranks of Habitat for Humanity Saint Louis as a Friday Crew volunteer. He showed up diligently each week to help the construction staff prepare for the upcoming Saturday builds. Shortly thereafter, he started coming on Mondays, too. Mike would help complete various tasks left unfinished from the previous weekend. He showed up so much on Mondays that he and the staff decided to make it a formal weekday crew, and hence, Monday Crew was born in 2004. After 8 years of house leading, Mike can still be seen out on the Habitat build site most Mondays and Fridays as well as some Saturdays. Mike's warm personality and sense of humor put homebuyers and volunteers at ease. He is a patient teacher and his commitment to the development of future construction leaders is ever present.

The JFC Construction Leadership Award was established to show appreciation and thanks to the dedicated construction leaders who help make the Habitat build successful each year. Leaders are rated on their leadership skills, site management/mentorship, dedication to the role and organization, and on being an Ambassador for Habitat.

Comments about Mike included:

Leadership-"When things go wrong. Mike never panics. He has the discipline to step back and analyze the situation to find the best solution. He is a good teacher and tries to explain the "why" as well as the "what"."

Dedication to Role and to Organization-"I've worked with Mike for almost 10 years now. From the beginning (he) offered guidance and friendship. I have seen him work with everyone this way. He always encourages volunteers to try tasks that are new to them but is there to help as needed."

Site Management & Mentorship-"Mike provides support for all of his crew leaders and the volunteers. He also is conscious of the need to insure a safe environment for crew and volunteers. He is patient, persistent, and dedicated to finishing the tasks of the day."

Habitat Ambassador-"His actions speak to his understanding of Habitat's mission. He expects his volunteers to do the best they can so that others may enjoy a new home."

Please congratulate Mike the next time you see him!