Building Relationships that Build HomeAid

One of the most rewarding parts of my role at HomeAid America over the past eight months has been partnering with four of our affiliates as they searched for their next Executive Director. It's a responsibility I don't take lightly because every Executive Director has the opportunity to shape not only the future of their affiliate, but also the lives of the individuals and families they serve through HomeAid.

While every affiliate has an Executive Director job description, each one is looking for something a little different. Some are seeking a leader who can guide strategic growth, while others are searching for someone with fundraising expertise, project management experience, or experience in the building industry. As I review each resume, I try to view every candidate through the lens of what that particular affiliate needs most. From there, I provide the hiring team with the strongest candidates, and they take the lead in interviews and ultimately selecting the person who will guide their organization into its next chapter.

My favorite part of the process begins after the offer is accepted.

At HomeAid America, we've developed an onboarding program for new Executive Directors, and I have the privilege of leading our in-person training sessions. Over a day and a half together, we cover everything from HomeAid's mission and project development process to the unique roles and responsibilities of Executive Directors and their Boards of Directors.

Of course, some of the most valuable moments happen outside the training room.

Whether we're sharing a meal or simply taking a break between sessions, we have the opportunity to get to know one another on a personal level. We talk about families, hobbies, favorite pastimes, and the communities they now serve. We also spend time discussing their vision for their affiliate—not just what they hope to accomplish in their first few months, but where they see their organization in the years ahead.

Those conversations matter.

They lay the foundation for trust, open communication, and a culture where Executive Directors know they are never navigating their journey alone. I genuinely enjoy helping create that culture from the very beginning. My goal is for every new Executive Director to leave training knowing they have a partner at HomeAid America—someone they can call with a quick question, a difficult challenge, or simply to celebrate a success.

Our relationship doesn't end when training concludes. We establish a regular cadence of meetings—weekly at first, then bi-weekly, then monthly as they become more confident in their role. Over time, those scheduled meetings naturally evolve into conversations whenever support is needed. Watching each Executive Director grow in confidence while knowing they have a network behind them is one of the most fulfilling aspects of my work.

Every Executive Director brings unique talents, experiences, and perspectives to HomeAid. My role isn't to fit them into a mold—it's to help equip them for success while encouraging them to lead authentically. Supporting them as they begin their HomeAid journey is both a privilege and a reminder that the strength of our federation is built one relationship at a time.

When we invest in our leaders, we strengthen our affiliates. And when our affiliates are stronger, together we can make an even greater impact in the communities we serve.