Habitat Macedonia’s nominee for HFHI Global Volunteer Award

Over time, John became one of Habitat Macedonia's strongest international champions. Through the support of the Finnerty Family Foundation and his personal engagement, he promoted the organization among donors, public officials, and community leaders in both Macedonia and the United States. John's commitment proved especially valuable during the 2015 refugee and migrant emergency, when nearly one million refugees and migrants crossed the Greek–Macedonian border and received emergency shelter organized by Habitat Macedonia.

His advocacy reached the highest levels of public and civic life. Over his long association with Habitat Macedonia, he met with and promoted the organization's work to two Presidents of Macedonia, two Speakers of the Macedonian Parliament, the Archbishop of the Macedonian Orthodox Church, three United States Ambassadors to Macedonia, and numerous mayors across the country. These engagements raised the visibility and credibility of Habitat Macedonia's mission and strengthened support for affordable housing initiatives.

John's impact extended well beyond individual projects. His support helped strengthen Habitat Macedonia as an institution and contributed to innovative housing solutions, including the multi-family housing initiative, which has provided homes for dozens of low-income families. In recognition of his dedication, he was appointed Honorary Board Member of Habitat Macedonia, and one of the multi-family apartment buildings in Veles bears a gratitude plaque honoring his name and that of his wife, Nancy. Habitat Macedonia also honored his contribution by naming its construction management company "Finerti" after the Finnerty family.

What makes John's contribution so meaningful is its consistency, breadth, and longevity. For nearly twenty years, he has served as a volunteer, donor, advocate, ambassador, and trusted friend - helping vulnerable families, supporting humanitarian action, strengthening communities, and contributing to Habitat Macedonia's long-term success.

What makes John special is that he turns compassion into action. When faced with hardship, he does not ask what others should do - he asks what he can do, then inspires others to follow. This combination of personal generosity, hands-on service, and leadership has defined his contribution to Habitat Macedonia for nearly twenty years. Whether helping build and renovate homes, supporting families with special needs, responding to humanitarian crises, or advocating for affordable housing among public leaders and donors, John consistently leads by example. His ability to combine genuine care for people with a commitment to lasting solutions has improved countless lives and inspired many others to join Habitat’s mission.