Above: Ayden, Cinna, Topher, and previous AmeriCorps Aasha
At Habitat for Humanity of Metro Denver, our AmeriCorps members are essential partners in building stronger, more resilient communities. This AmeriCorps Week, we’re honored to spotlight the individuals who dedicated a year of service to creating affordable homeownership opportunities for local families.
Each of our AmeriCorps members arrived with unique goals—seeking new skills, fresh experiences, or a renewed sense of purpose—but all share a belief that safe, stable housing has the power to transform lives.
Ayden Thomas
Construction Crew Leader
Topher joined AmeriCorps after completing a VISTA term and searching for a meaningful next step. He says he believes deeply in the power of homeownership, noting that Habitat’s work helps create long-term stability for families. Topher shared that what resonated most with him was “the variety of folks Habitat takes in… Core volunteers, staff, and daily volunteers are just a pleasure to work with.”
One of his biggest lessons from service?
“Persistence—showing up every day and continuing from yesterday’s work.”
Chris “Topher” Lengel
Construction Crew Leader – New Construction
Topher joined AmeriCorps after completing a VISTA term and searching for a meaningful next step. He says he believes deeply in the power of homeownership, noting that Habitat’s work helps create long-term stability for families. Topher shared that what resonated most with him was “the variety of folks Habitat takes in… Core volunteers, staff, and daily volunteers are just a pleasure to work with.”
One of his biggest lessons from service?
“Persistence—showing up every day and continuing from yesterday’s work.”
Chris “Cinna” West
Construction Crew Leader
Cinna returned to AmeriCorps after reaching what felt like a “dead end,” choosing to reconnect with work that had brought meaning in earlier service terms.
He believes in Habitat’s mission because “affordable housing is a way to support people not just for a day, but for their lives.”
This year, Cinna rediscovered joy in both the build site and their creative pursuits, sharing that “alone none of us could build a house; together we can change the world.”
Xaryia “Z” Carson
Volunteer Engagement Outreach VISTA
Xaryia joined AmeriCorps seeking handson experience, new skills, and a builtin community after relocating. She believes in Habitat’s mission because “affordable housing is the basis of a strong community… and Habitat is on the ground doing the actual work.”
Throughout her service, Xaryia has valued meeting new people, trying new tasks, and getting to know Denver’s housing landscape.
She shared that “connecting with people working toward the same goal is good for the soul.”
From raising walls to raising spirits, our AmeriCorps members have brought commitment, compassion, and curiosity to every project they have touched. They embrace new learning curves, show up for homeowners and volunteers alike, and help create homes that will serve Denver families for generations.
To Topher, Cinna, Ayden, and Xaryia—thank you. Thank you for choosing service, for believing in the power of affordable housing, and for being part of the Habitat Metro Denver community. Your dedication strengthens our mission and inspires us all.
