Habitat for Humanity thanks MCRP volunteers

May 2, 2025

Habitat for Humanity recently recognized their volunteers, including six Male Community Reentry Program (MCRP) Los Angeles 2 (LA2) participants.

The evening focused on thanking the volunteers and those who supported them. MCRP Parole Agent II Eugenia Canchola, several MCRP LA2 staff, and participant family members attended to show their support.

“Six individuals from (MCRP LA2) were recognized for their contributions. We are incredibly grateful for the hard work, stewardship, and dedication shown by all the (MCRP) individuals. We truly appreciate everything you do to support our mission,” said Makayla Rivera, Volunteer Coordinator for San Gabriel Valley Habitat for Humanity.

MCRP LA2 volunteers receive construction awards

Taran Downing receives an award from Habitat for Humanity. — Taran Downing

Jurray Casey receives an award. — Taran Downing

Construction Awards went to three MCRP participants who work on the El Serrano project:

Site Super Star Award went to Taran Downing, recognizing exceptional performance and leadership onsite.
Hammer Time Award was given to Jurad Cassey for outstanding skill and dedication in construction.
Hard Hat Hero award was earned by Tony Tatum, honoring the tireless work and commitment to safety.

ReStore awards go to three volunteers

Gilbert Quiroz receives award from ReStore Manager. — Gilbert Quiroz

Brandon Sanchez receives award. — Gilbert Quiroz

Three MCRP participants also received Habitat for Humanity ReStore Awards:

Jack-of-All Trades Award went to Gilbert Quiroz recognizing versatility and can-do spirit across every task.
The Foundation Award was given to Brandon Sanchez for being a steady, reliable force the team can always count on.
Spirit Level Award was earned by Francisco Fernandez honoring the balance, positivity, and support he brings to the ReStore.

These men worked at the Habitat for Humanity retail store helping load merchandise in vehicles, re-stocking the store, and helping customers.

ReStore Manager Kellie di Bartolo-Beckman recognized them for providing enthusiastic support to the store and having a positive attitude.

Working with Habitat for Humanity while earning certification

MCRP LA2 Habitat for Humanity awards dinner with two people at a table.

The six MCRP participants completed an eight-week Certified Apartment Maintenance Technician (CAMT) program while volunteering their time.

They also completed 310 paid hours at $20 per hour, totaling $6,200.

Participants Tony Tatum, Taran Downing and Jurad Cassey continue volunteering at Habitat for Humanity. They volunteer 32 hours a week at the El Serreno project site which has multiple homes currently under construction.

When asked why they continue volunteering their time, Tatum said he does it for the experience and to give back to the community. He said he also enjoys being there and working with the Habitat for Humanity staff.

El Serreno site Construction Supervisor James Romero continuously challenges them and gives them hands on training.

Director of Construction Development Brian Stanley praised the volunteers for helping build and renovate communities for low-income families. In the El Serreno area, Habitat for Humanity has completed work on five homes with another 17 scheduled.

Overall, they have 70 projects under construction in the Los Angeles County area and will also help build homes for those displaced by the Los Angeles fires.

Story by Ashton Harris, information officer
Office of Public and Employee Communications