Dear Friends,
After more than two decades of leadership, I am excited to share my plan to retire from my role as Executive Director effective this fall. This transition will allow me the gift of more time to spend with my family and friends, travel, and fully enjoy the lakes area I love so much. It is the right moment – for both me and Habitat. I’ve had the honor of walking alongside families, volunteers, staff, and community partners in building something with lasting change. As I step into this next chapter, I do so with the confidence of knowing that Habitat is stronger than ever and well-positioned for continued impact and growth.
Once the new executive director is on board, I’ll remain engaged in a short-term transitional support role. During this time, I’ll focus on wrapping up key strategic initiatives and offering continuity and insight where helpful while also giving the new leader the space and autonomy to lead with confidence. I am deeply grateful for the support you have shared throughout my tenure. Please reach out to me during this transition if you have any questions.
With gratitude, Lori Anderson
Leadership Transition Plans
Habitat's board of directors is committed to a thoughtful and well-planned leadership transition. To guide this important process, the board has engaged with Bonsai Leadership Group, LLC – an executive search and leadership development firm with deep expertise in nonprofit leadership transitions. Over the coming weeks, members of the board search committee will partner with Bonsai Leadership Group to gather input from key stakeholders. This input will help shape the leadership profile of the next Executive Director. The board aims to ensure that the next leader builds upon Lori’s extraordinary legacy with a fresh vision that will carry Habitat into its next chapter – rooted in the same mission, values, and commitment to service. If you have questions about the process, please contact Habitat board chair, Angie Krebs, via the Habitat office at 320-762-4255.
A Two+ Decade Legacy of Transformational Leadership
As a steadfast advocate for affordable housing, Lori’s journey with Habitat is a testament to her resilience, adaptability, and passion for her work. Angie Krebs, current Habitat board chair, aptly remarked, "In our community, Lori is known for her strong relationships with donors, community leaders, and volunteers. Her work has been instrumental in helping 196 families realize their dream of homeownership and countless others improve their living situation. Lori’s servant leadership and dedication to the organization perfectly exemplify Habitat’s mission.”
Hired in 2004, Lori began her career with Habitat as the first part-time employee of the affiliate. Tasked with bold initiatives that transformed the organization, her early contributions were instrumental in establishing Habitat’s core values and operational standards, ultimately strengthening the organization’s capacity.
Under Lori’s leadership, Habitat for Humanity of Douglas County has
- Increased the number of families served annually from one to thirty,
- Grew the volunteer base from 30 to over 700 annual volunteers,
- Opened the ReStore in 2014, a nonprofit home improvement store and donation center that sells new and gently used items, with proceeds supporting affordable housing,
- Developed the Aging in Place program in 2017, which grew from 5 to over 25 projects annually,
- Increased the Habitat team from one part-time person to 11 full-time and four part-time team members, and,
Developed Habitat’s first affordable housing development in Alexandria, Summer Meadows, which will provide 42 single-family homes, securing partnerships with the City of Alexandria for Tax Increment Financing (TIF) and with USDA Rural Development which awarded Habitat a $1.6M Site Loan.
Celebrate With Us This Fall
Habitat extends our deepest gratitude to Lori for her 21 years of leadership, dedication, and service. She has been a mentor, a community builder, and a true embodiment of Habitat’s values. Lori will always be a cherished part of the Habitat family. A celebration of Lori's incredible legacy will occur this fall, and the entire community will be invited. Please stay tuned for details about this special event and ongoing updates on the leadership transition.
