About

Learn About Augusta Habitat

Building Homes, Strengthening Communities

Learn about our history and meet the dedicated individuals who make up our team. Discover how we are building homes and strengthening communities in the Augusta area.

Our Roots

Augusta/CSRA Habitat for Humanity was founded in 1986, making us one of over 1,850 Habitat for Humanity International affiliates worldwide. Our journey began with a vision to address the housing issue and provide affordable housing solutions to families in need. Since our inception, we have partnered with over 85 families, turning the dream of homeownership into a reality.

The roots of Habitat for Humanity International can be traced back to Koinonia Farm, a small, interracial Christian community in Americus, Georgia. Founded in 1942 by Clarence Jordan, a farmer and biblical scholar, it was at Koinonia Farm where the concept of Habitat for Humanity took shape.

In 1965, Millard and Linda Fuller, the founders of Habitat for Humanity International, visited Koinonia Farm. Inspired by the idea of “partnership housing,” they envisioned a model where those in need of adequate shelter would work alongside volunteers to build simple, decent houses.

The Legacy

In 1968, Koinonia Farm set aside 42 half-acre house sites, with a community park and recreational area, as part of the Habitat for Humanity vision. Donations from across the country helped kickstart the work, and homes were built and sold to families in need at no profit and no interest, setting the foundation for the Habitat for Humanity model.

In September 1976, Millard and Linda gathered a group of supporters to discuss the future of their vision. It was at this meeting that Habitat for Humanity International as an organization was officially born. With faith, hard work, and direction, Habitat for Humanity International embarked on its successful course as a housing ministry.

Today, Habitat for Humanity continues to transform lives by offering affordable housing solutions. Through the collective efforts of churches, community groups, and other partners, thousands of low-income families have found strength, stability, and independence through safe and decent housing. Since 1976, Habitat for Humanity has helped 6.8 million people find hope and a brighter future through the provision of safe, decent, and affordable shelter.

Meet Our Team

Dedicated to Serving

Executive Board Members

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Steve Wallace

Chair,
Board of Directors

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T. Chris Johnson

Vice Chair,
Board of Directors

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Wanda Holloway

2nd Vice Chair,
Board of Directors

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Ian Mercier
Treasurer

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Stephanie Bolton
Secretary

Additional Board Members

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Judy Heath

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HEATHER HATCHER

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Matt Kelly

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David Nguyen, MD

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Lasima Turmon

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David Watts

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CAL WRAY

Staff Members

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Bernadette M. Kelliher

President & CEO

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Caroline Haase

Senior Director
of Operations

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Senior Director
of Strategy

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Thomas Reed

Director of
Grant Acquisition & Management

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Lotty Carr

Program Manager,
Family Support

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Michael Lesher

Retail Services
Manager

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ScootER Tiberius

Pawsitive Impact Coordinator