When Kristi Sebald first walked through the doors of Milwaukee Habitat for Humanity in January 2020, she brought more than three decades of experience in ministry, education, and community organizing. She carried with her a passion for people and a drive to make a difference.
As the Volunteer Services and Events Manager, Kristi doesn’t just organize events or manage volunteers—she creates connections. Her work weaves together individuals, organizations, and faith partners in a shared mission: to increase access to affordable housing and breathe new life into Milwaukee’s neighborhoods.
It’s a calling that fits Kristi’s heart perfectly. After moving from Phoenix to Milwaukee in 2016 with her husband—who grew up here—she quickly embraced the city as her own. Now, as a retired Educator turned Community Leader, she’s channeling her energy into something bigger: giving her neighbors the dignity and stability that come with a place to call home.
This mission came to life in a powerful way during the Team Up Event at the Wauwatosa ReStore Center, an unforgettable day of collaboration, service, and bridgebuilding.
Where Treasures Build Futures
Walking into a Habitat ReStore feels a bit like stepping into a hidden treasure trove. Part home improvement store, part resale shop, part boutique, the Wauwatosa ReStore is stocked with donated furniture, appliances, and building materials—all of it destined to transform houses into homes.
Managed by a small team of staff and supported by volunteers, this space hums with purpose. Every item sold helps fund Habitat’s housing projects across Milwaukee, turning generosity into real change.
That day, volunteers (including myself) rolled up their sleeves, ready to work. Trucks pulled into the donation dock, carrying items that once gathered dust but now held the promise of renewal. Inside, customers browsed for bargains while we sorted, repaired, and assembled items destined for new homes.
For me, the highlight was assembling a table, an unexpected yet deeply satisfying task. When I was asked, “Are you comfortable using power tools?” I said “Sure,” without realizing what I’d signed up for. After a crash course in navigating a sea of drills and battery packs, I managed to put the table together—its polished top and sturdy base ready for its next chapter.
It was a small act, but in that moment, I felt the ripple of something larger.
That table would become part of a family’s home, a place for meals, conversations, and memories.
Collaboration in Action
The Team Up Event wasn’t just about building furniture or clearing shelves; it was about building bridges. Representatives from Catholic Charities, the YMCA, and Milwaukee Habitat for Humanity worked side by side, united by a common goal. Kristi Bold, Vice President of Branch Operations at the YMCA, described the experience as “a chance to connect and develop relationships” that would fuel future collaboration.
Jen Layton from Catholic Charities reflected on the power of intentional partnership, noting how these moments can break down barriers and foster understanding.
It was a day of teamwork, from scrubbing floors to sharing ideas, and every action reflected the heart of the mission: turning shared values into tangible impact.
Becoming a Nation of Bridgebuilders
The spirit of the day was guided by the principles of bridgebuilding, introduced by Rev. Hannah Kardon of Interfaith America.
Respect, relate, cooperate—these were more than words.
They were tools for connection, a framework to bring together people from different walks of life to tackle shared challenges.
As leaders discussed how to embed bridgebuilding into their daily work, Al Smith, COO of Milwaukee Habitat, offered a vision: to create spaces for dialogue where diverse voices could share perspectives and find common ground.
Jessica Brandt of Catholic Charities added, “Bridgebuilding uses our strengths to best serve others and help overcome barriers.” It’s a philosophy that turns division into dialogue, isolation into inclusion.
Looking Ahead
The impact of the Team Up Project goes beyond a single day. It’s a movement—a commitment to action in times when division feels insurmountable.
As we approach the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday in January, the project will continue with service events inspired by Dr. King’s legacy. These efforts will aim to deepen connections, inspire hope, and remind us of what’s possible when we come together for the common good.
The Team Up Project, rooted in Milwaukee but poised for national impact, answers the question: Can we bridge our differences?
The answer, resounding and clear, is yes.
By building relationships, sharing stories, and working hand in hand, we’re proving that collaboration is not just possible, it’s powerful.
In Kristi Sebald’s words and actions, and in the collective efforts of everyone involved in the Team Up Event, there’s a reminder that progress is built piece by piece. Sometimes it’s a table assembled with care; sometimes it’s a conversation that opens minds.
Every step matters, and together, we’re making Milwaukee—and our world—a stronger, more connected country.
