Volunteerism rates have steadily increased in recent years, and employees are looking for more opportunities to put their skills to work and perhaps even learn new skills along the way. One organization that often encourages a bit of both is Habitat for Humanity, where volunteers build homes for families in need across the U.S.

Taking care of your health and your home are two of the most important ways to support ourselves and our families. Amparo Sancen understands this—and she excels at helping others do just that. She grew up in Mexico watching her mom, who struggled with health issues, navigate medical appointments and doctor visits. This early exposure to the sometimes complicated medical world inspired Amparo to find a career that would allow her to help others. Healthcare was a natural fit, driving her to take a first-aid course when she was 13 years old. Once out of school, Amparo began studying nursing but then moved to Atlanta before she could complete those studies. There, she began working as a nursing assistant—until she learned more about the roofing industry, that is.

Taking on a new roofing project means collecting plenty of information before you even consider stepping foot in a roofing supply store. The key is to ask the right questions—and know how to find the answers you need.

In 2011, employees at the GAF Chester plant in Rock Hill, South Carolina had an idea to reduce waste being generated by the manufacturing facility. The initial idea has grown into a model of collaboration and innovation: reusing cardboard mat cores.