July Volunteer Spotlight

In 1997, Buffalo hosted the Frank Lloyd Wright Conservancy Conference, and Gary Kwiatkowski eagerly signed up to volunteer. The United States Air Force veteran had earned his AAS in Architecture Technology from Alfred State College where he was introduced to Frank Lloyd Wright.

At the conference, Gary connected with people from the Martin House Restoration Corporation, and it wasn’t long before he enrolled in a docent training class. “I’m still excited and inspired EVERY time I get to go inside the house,” said Gary. “I enjoy sharing the house with the world and having had the opportunity to play a role in the restoration of an important piece of Buffalo history.”

For 23 years, Gary has given countless hours of service through numerous volunteer roles. He is a senior docent, leading visitors on tours of the estate. He is a past member of the Volunteer Steering Committee and was co-chair of our docent training program. In 2012, he co-founded and still co-chairs the popular annual Bricks & Brews fundraising event. As the owner of East Prairie Hop Company, Gary provides hops to local craft breweries, and his relationships to the craft brewers across our region are key to the success of this festive brewfest.

Gary is currently employed at a local medical device manufacturer as a supplier quality manager. His passion for “all things Buffalo” doesn’t prevent Gary and his wife from traveling, including visiting Wright sites from New Hampshire to California to Tokyo.

Thank you to Gary Kwiatkowski for his many years of impactful service to the Martin House. Cheers!

Interested in hearing about volunteer opportunities at the Martin House?