The Houston Outreach Group (HOGs), a team of passionate Oceaneering employees from our Manufactured Products and Grayloc groups, recently launched their first Volunteer Time Off (VTO) initiative in partnership with Houston Habitat for Humanity.
For their inaugural project, the group chose to support the Settegast Community Garden, a vital green space in northeast Houston that provides fresh produce to residents facing transportation challenges, food insecurity, and financial hardship.
On May 1, 2025, four employees (Anthony Albro, Annette Avalos, James Davis, and Gerardo Soria) stepped up to make a difference. Under the guidance of a Habitat for Humanity team lead, they spent the day leveling walking paths with crushed granite, clearing overgrown weeds, and tidying compost and fencing areas to improve accessibility. Their hands-on efforts helped enhance the garden’s functionality and beauty, ensuring it remains a welcoming space for the community.
“It was both eye-opening and rewarding,” said Annette Avalos. “It gave us a deeper understanding of the challenges people face and reminded us how important it is to give back.”
Houston Habitat for Humanity commended the group’s contribution, noting that their work plays a key role in keeping the garden thriving and accessible to all.
This successful first VTO event for the HOG team sets a strong foundation for future outreach and highlights the meaningful impact Oceaneering employees can make when they come together in service.
The Settegast Community Garden welcomes volunteers on the second and fourth Saturdays of each month. As a thank-you, participants are invited to take home fresh produce after volunteering.