Our Work in Practice
Modern Railway Systems recently had the opportunity to support the Chicago community through a volunteer day with Habitat for Humanity Chicago. The MRS team joined Habitat for a build day in Grand Crossing, a historic neighborhood on Chicago's South Side. Don Carlson, Mike Weber, Nick Robinson, JT Green, and Tom Hunter made up the build team, eager to lend a hand.
Their worksite was in Pocket Town, an area nestled between the Norfolk Southern and METRA rail lines. This neighborhood, which has faced its share of challenges, is now seeing positive change with Habitat and the support of the Lands' End foundation, created by former Grand Crossing resident and founder of Lands' End clothing, Gary Comer. Comer’s foundation donated the lots, making it possible for Habitat for Humanity to build four new homes for local families. The MRS team was inspired to be part of this initiative, aligned with Habitat’s powerful message that “no matter who we are or where we come from, we all deserve to have a decent life.” In addition to building homes, Habitat offers services like low-interest mortgages, financial counseling, and homeowner education, helping families achieve stability and independence.
During their time on site, MRS also learned of a donation drive Habitat was hosting to support Jumping Juniors, a local charity in Grand Crossing that mentors girls and young adults. Don Carlson took it upon himself to shop for essential winter clothing, blankets, and festive hot cocoa sets for the drive, adding an extra touch with rainbow-colored cocoa with sprinkles—an item that brought some cheer to the team.
Safety was a top priority, both for MRS and Habitat, and the team came prepared with personal protective equipment and even completed an online safety course in advance. They wore specially designed safety-orange shirts featuring both the MRS and Habitat logos, created by Pedro and Alexandra Alvarado. After a comprehensive safety briefing on-site, the team went to work. They tackled various tasks, from clearing rocks and debris from the site to filling and compacting rain-soaked trench lines and dismantling fencing to facilitate a dumpster replacement. Don took on minor touch-ups with a nail gun and liquid nails, while MRS’s design team members, Mike and Nick, handled measurements and framing for shelving inside the homes. Tom Hunter kept spirits high with his humor and local stories, providing a mix of entertainment and hard work.
Reflecting on the day, the MRS team felt deeply rewarded by the experience and knew they would gladly volunteer again. This memorable event was made possible through the efforts of Jeff Wilcox, a recently retired estimator and project manager, who organized the day from start to finish. Though he was unable to attend, his dedication to setting up the event was appreciated by the entire team. Gratitude also goes to the Habitat Chicago team leaders, Jose, Juan, Pauline, Jo, and Susan, who epitomize the meaning of service. The MRS team is already looking forward to future opportunities to support Habitat and the local community.