A group of professionals from the United States on the Island for a leadership conference have elected to roll up their sleeves and work on their free day from meetings — by helping out the local Habitat for Humanity charity.

Fifty representatives from Square D, an American company which provides electrical components, are pitching in on two local projects.

They have painted the exterior of the Sunshine League and have also begun rehabilitation of a derelict dwelling on Vesey Street.

The site on Vesey Street has had underbrush cleared out, ceilings removed and walls plastered. "Usually at events like this, there is a free day allotted," said Scott Anderson, the senior director for corporate programs of Habitat for Humanity International.

"On these days they usually would golf, play tennis or do some other recreation activities. This time, however, they chose to volunteer and get their hands dirty."

Square D has a long association with Habitat for Humanity in the United States. The company has committed to providing over $10 million worth of electrical components to Habitat projects.

The employees split their efforts between the two sites in their desire to make a difference in Bermuda.

"The work will continue with other volunteers as we are leaving this week," Mr. Anderson said.

He said the group has really enjoyed their time on the Island. "Fantastic having great leaders, great hosts and fantastic volunteering," he said of the experience.

Habitat Bermuda representative Sheelagh Cooper praised the group's contribution. "They have been working all day today and have just about finished," she said.

Habitat Bermuda is an affiliate of Habitat for Humanity, which was founded in the United States in 1976 by Millard and Linda Fuller.

Since its inception, Habitat International has built and renovated more than 200,000 homes with families in need all around the world.

Habitat Bermuda became a registered Bermuda Charity in April 2000, and an affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International in June of the same year. Habitat Bermuda was established in response to the need for more adequate, affordable housing in Bermuda.

By partnering with Bermuda businesses and with families in need, Habitat Bermuda is actively addressing and meeting those needs by renovating or expanding substandard or inadequate housing.

For more information on Habitat for Humanity Bermuda call 296-0256 or visit the group's website at www.habitat.bm. Habitat for Humanity International can be accessed online at www.habitat.org.