Jamie Forbes, President of Saginaw-Shiawassee Habitat for Humanity Board of Directors, today announced the appointment of Abbey Stemple as the new Executive Director of the organization.
Forbes said, “Abbey’s deep commitment to our mission, her strategic insight, and her ability to build strong community partnerships make her the ideal leader for this next chapter of Saginaw-Shiawassee Habitat for Humanity. The Board is confident that Abbey will continue to drive impactful growth and innovation while staying rooted in the values that have guided this organization for nearly four decades.”
Ms. Stemple is the sixth staff person to hold the title of Executive Director in the affiliate’s 38-year History. The first was the late Herb Spence, Jr. who retired early from his family-owned company Spence Brothers to begin Saginaw Habitat for Humanity as a full-time volunteer Executive Director. Abbey’s latest role with the organization was as Director of Neighborhood Initiatives and Grant Compliance. Previous to her time as an employee Abbey served on the Board of Directors. Under her guidance, the Neighborhood Revitalization program has expanded with our Covenant HealthCare partnership. Previous to coming to Habitat, Abbey was a Life Skills Coach at Saginaw Valley State University and currently serves as an adjunct faculty member in the Department of Social Work & Youth Services.
Abbey holds a Master of Social Work from Saginaw Valley State University as well as other certifications specific to Habitat’s work as a RRP Inspector.
Stemple said, “I am incredibly humbled and honored to serve as the new Executive Director of Saginaw-Shiawassee Habitat for Humanity. It’s a privilege to step into this role knowing the real and urgent housing needs families face in our communities. Every day, I’m reminded that a safe, stable home is the foundation for so much more: health, opportunity, dignity, and hope. I’m grateful for the opportunity to be a part of this mission, and I look forward to working hand-in-hand with our dedicated team, hardworking volunteers, and committed partners who share a simple but powerful belief: that every person deserves the security and hope that comes with having a place to call home.“
Saginaw-Shiawassee Habitat for Humanity, currently in its 38th year, has built or renovated over 272 houses for people in need in Saginaw and Shiawassee Counties. They have also served over 750 households with critical home repairs, weatherization and home preservation. Habitat for Humanity International (HFHI) is a non-profit, ecumenical Christian housing ministry dedicated to eliminating poverty housing and homelessness. HFHI has dedicated over 3,000,000 houses and serves in over 70 countries since their beginnings in 1976.
Skilled and unskilled volunteers are needed for the Tuesday/Thursday Crew as they continue to build and rehab houses year-round and for the June Neighborhood Revitalization program. Many other opportunities for construction and non-construction activities are always available.
Please contact the Saginaw-Shiawassee Habitat for Humanity office at (989) 753-5200 or visit sshfh.org to donate, volunteer, or for any questions.