Seven new Board of Delegate members were elected by the Homestead membership at the 2008 Membership Meeting in October. “Homestead is fortunate to have an active Board of Delegates that is committed to creating permanently affordable housing options,” said Board President, Becky Andrews, “I look forward to a productive and successful year together!”
Rachel Doxtater has worked for Boys & Girls Clubs of King County for nearly three years as its Director of Communications and Public Relations as brings a wealth of fundraising and communications experience to Homestead. “The mission of Homestead is one that I believe strongly in. I recently bought a home in the Pinehurst neighborhood and the experience opened my eyes to some of the difficulties facing home buyers in Seattle,” says Rachel.
Martina Guilfoil, of the Rainier Valley Community Development Fund, brings 22 years of experience managing affordable housing and homeownership programs—the last three of those years were focused specifically with land trusts in Los Angeles and in Sarasota, Florida. Additionally, Martina has experience on a national level working as an advocate for housing programs as well as banking and CRA legislation.
Chris Laroche, a Spanish language assistant for Seattle Public Schools, is on the front lines of the battle against poverty and its manifestations: inequality, homeless students, hungry kids, and more. Chris demonstrates dedication to service and is an advocate for the underserved. “Although I've finally been able to buy a house, the issue of affordability, livability, gentrification and economic disparately greatly concern and interest me,” said Chris, “being a member of the Board and Homestead homeowner gives me an opportunity to act on those concerns.”
Emily Nolan, Washington Families Fund Manager, brings more than 12 years of experience in the housing and homelessness fields. “I enjoy building partnerships and am always looking for ways to bring groups together,” said Emily. “It is exciting to see the growth of Homestead and to be a part of the continued growth.”
Philippa Nye, has been a developer of affordable housing for fourteen years, most recently at the Delridge Neighborhoods Development Association. Philippa was instrumental in arranging for the first house donation to Homestead and on its first home sale in 2001. “I am excited by the growth in Homestead and look forward to assisting the organization in planning for its future,” said Philippa.
Geov Parrish brings more than 30 years history of housing, social justice, and community activism; decades of experience in non-profit management, budgeting, strategic planning, and outreach and extensive fundraising experience to Homestead. “As a member of HCLT since the early '90s, heavily involved in the early operations of our group, I am excited by the possibility of helping realize HCLT's potential for growth in the years ahead,” said Geov.
Dante' Taylor, with the City of Seattle’s Transportation Division, is a knowledgeable community advocate and recent graduate of the Evans School of Public Affairs at the University of Washington. “I believe that public service includes a variety of efforts that result in benefitting the community. Homestead is an opportunity for me to serve the Seattle community in a way that provides affordable housing to individuals and families that may not otherwise be able to experience homeownership,” said Dante.
A special thanks to Esther “Little Dove” John who has retired after 2 terms of Homestead Board Leadership! Dove John is an African-American/Native-American educator, radio personality, community activist, mental health counselor and musician holding Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from Harvard University. Dove is considered one of the “founding mothers” of the Community Coalition for Environmental Justice and participated in numerous peace walks including a solo walk from Seattle to the United Nations. Dove, we appreciate your service and dedication!
