Habitat volunteer Clive Rainey returns to Cape Region

Clive Rainey got involved with Habitat for Humanity long before the organization became the worldwide nondenominational housing ministry it has grown to be.

As the organization's first international volunteer, Rainey has for decades promoted the ministry and the concept of partnership housing.

Sussex County Habitat for Humanity Executive Director Kevin Gilmore said 17 years ago, when he first ever got involved in the organization, Rainey was already a moving and motivational speaker for the organization.

After more than 30 years with Habitat, Rainey recently retired to Guatamala, but as the adage goes, old habits die hard; Rainey remains active and Gilmore met him last winter, when Sussex County Habitat for Humanity visited Guatamala.

Gilmore said it didn't take much persuasion to convince Rainey to return to Sussex County, where he spoke about five years ago.

"We were very inspired by him and asked if he would ever come back to Sussex County," Gilmore said. "He said, 'Absolutely. You ask me; I’m there.' "

After another Delaware appearance where he will swear in a class of AmeriCorps members, Rainey will head south for the rest of the weekend to catch up with the Habitat for Humanity volunteers in Sussex County and bring his message to the community.

"He’s volunteered in more countries than I can count," Gilmore said. "He’s the kind of guy who demonstrates a life of service and how rich one can be when serving others."

Rainey will be on hand for a reception 5 to 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 18, at The Brick Hotel in Georgetown. On Saturday, Oct. 19, he has a double-header of engagements in the Cape Region, starting with a prayer breakfast from 8 to 10 a.m. at St.  Edmond's Catholic Parish Hall in Rehoboth Beach. This breakfast is open to the public and may attract the largest crowd of the weekend, Gilmore said.

To round out a weekend of fundraising events Rainey will appear at a VIP dinner at Fish On! Seafood Bar and Grill in Lewes, 6 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 19, a final opportunity to get some face-time with the world-traveling volunteer.

For more information, visit www.sussexcountyhabitat.org or call 302-855-1153.