A group of silver-haired retired men sits around a breakfast table at Milda’s Café in north Minneapolis, poking fun at each other and telling stories about what’s going on today and from years ago—flying jets, rehabbing their own house, the weather. It’s a Tuesday morning and this group of Quicksilvers enjoys the usual banter before beginning their work volunteering on one of Urban Homeworks’ work sites.

Some of the guys joined the group years ago while others have joined recently. Some have come with construction skills, and others learn on the job (or have fun trying). Whatever the experience, all are welcomed by the rest of group, and quickly become part of the camaraderie.

When asked what makes them keep coming back every week (sometimes twice a week!), they’re quick to shoot off a smart response, saying that chocolate donuts during the morning break are the motivating factor.  And although some say they’re afraid of being talked about by the others if they don’t show up every week, it’s easy to see the meaningful friendship they have with each other. “Breakfast with the guys” on Tuesday and Thursday mornings isn’t the only reason they return. “We’re restoring a house that we know will do something good for somebody,” one of them says, “It’s a wonderful way to give back.” Bob Haberkorn, one of the very first Quicksilvers, replies “We are helping to restore a house so that somebody can restore their life.”

Thank you, Quicksilvers, for your faithful commitment in helping to restore lives. We appreciate your dedication and hard work every week.

Would YOU like to join the Quicksilvers group? Contact Jon at 612-703-9093 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .