Habitat for Humanity of Fannin and Gilmer Counties has announced that they have appointed a new Executive Director.
The new executive director is Anita Hardy, a realtor who joined volunteer efforts earlier this year.
“When the position became available, I followed my heart,” Hardy said.
She now oversees the day-to-day operations of the non-profit organization, namely fundraising, marketing, and volunteer programs centered on providing affordable housing to underprivileged people in their community.
Hardy brings to the table a wealth of experience in nonprofit leadership, community engagement, grant writing, and more.
Hardy hopes to “bring a greater awareness of who we are and what we do for our communities” in her role as executive director. She adds, saying “My time here has been short, but so impactful.”
Habitat for Humanity builds and provides homes with affordable mortgages to low-income families at no profit, as well as repairing existing homes for those who may not be able to afford it on their own.
“The people who volunteer their time and skills to help the community- it’s heartwarming and life-changing,” she said.
Hardy said that her experience as a realtor has richly prepared her for this job, saying “Realtors see first-hand the need for housing... We also understand the process that homeowners go through when buying homes.”
In a press release sent out in early December, Hardy said “I am committed to working with our dedicated staff, volunteers, and community partners to make a lasting difference in the lives of families in need. I believe affordable housing plays a critical role in strong and stable communities.”
“When people have their own homes, the community is better off. When they aren’t worried about where they’re going to sleep, they have more involvement with their community,” Hardy said.