New Manager of Newport News ReStore Passionate About a Job That Makes a Difference
Working in retail is nothing new to Scott Husch. Over the last 40 years, he’s managed cookie companies, toy and book stores, a sports apparel business and even a convenience store.
But the opportunity to work at the Newport News ReStore operated by Habitat for Humanity Peninsula and Greater Williamsburg offers something more.
“I’m excited to be doing something for my community,” said Husch, who joined the ReStore in June as Manager. “For the first time since I started working in retail, I’m providing a service that’s helping others.”
The ReStore sells new and gently used furniture, appliances, contracting supplies and more at prices 30-90% below retail. All proceeds go toward building Habitat houses locally that are sold to families who pay back no-interest mortgages. Those payments are recycled back into the community to construct more houses.
“I get up and actually feel like I’m making an impact, not just on my bank account but on somebody else’s life,” said Husch, touched by attending his first Habitat home dedication ceremony soon after he started. “I sat and watched the pride that comes with home ownership and heard how that was going to impact that individual and their family.”
The native Pittsburgher lived everywhere growing up as a military brat but settled in Hampton when his father’s final Army stop was Fort Eustis and later Fort Monroe. He thought he wanted to be a teacher and earned an undergraduate degree in history and education from Christopher Newport University. When student teaching didn’t suit him, he transitioned to retail, starting as assistant manager of the Original Cookie Company.
“I also met the love of my life,” he said. Husch and his wife, Sarah, have been married 33 years with one child, Fiona.
Husch always had an awareness about Habitat’s work and recalls the gratitude his mother felt when the roof of her home was repaired during one of the nonprofit’s Repair Blitzes. Sarah Husch is a longtime ReStore shopper and encouraged her husband to apply to be its manager.
There’s lots to love at the Newport News ReStore, where he’s in awe of the evolving inventory that includes a socket for a quarter to a first edition book. An avid reader of poetry, Husch couldn’t resist buying a 1929 collection by Kathleen Millay. “You never know what’s going to be on the floor,” he said.
Husch enjoys the staff of 21 and admires the dedication of the volunteers.
“They’re amazing,” he said. “They’re so passionate about the mission of store. When you can get people passionate about working, it’s such a blessing.”
Husch is knee deep in planning for the Newport News ReStore celebrating its fifth anniversary at its current location this fall. He invites all to check out the ReStore at 371 Chatham Drive, which holds Customer Appreciation Day on Wednesdays. “I’m happy to be here,” he said. “I plan on this being my last job.”
