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Dear Editor,

Jayne Johnson, the Executive Director of Piedmont Habitat for Humanity, has a very distinct honor that only she can claim. 

When the group, then called the Farmville Area Habitat for Humanity, decided to move from an all-volunteer organization to hiring the first part-time employee, Jayne became the first Executive Director in February of 2004. Now, after serving our neighbors in need of safe, decent, affordable housing for nearly two decades, Jayne has announced that she will be stepping down at the end of this year to pursue a new opportunity. 

“Being a part of the Piedmont Habitat for Humanity family has certainly been a high point in my professional life,” she said. “I’m grateful for the privilege this opportunity has provided me. Seeing so many individuals and families committed to realizing their dream of owning a home has brought me so much joy and continues to inspire me! I will certainly miss everyone I have worked alongside over the years and the bonds that have been made along the way.” 

During her time here, the affiliate has grown in leaps and bounds, moving from a housing provider focused on the Town of Farmville to a regional housing organization serving six counties. Since the formation of Piedmont Habitat for Humanity in 1990, 75 homes have been built or repaired, with 65 of these occurring under Jayne’s strategic leadership. Jayne would be the first to quickly say that this has only been possible thanks to so many wonderful donors, volunteers, and supporters who have generously and graciously shared their resources over the years. Her forward thinking and innovative methods in seeking to serve more have helped to foster this thriving environment. 

Earlier this year, Jayne’s accomplishments were recognized as she was inducted into the Habitat for Humanity Virginia Hall of Fame. 

We will greatly miss Jayne’s compassionate leadership and sincere care for her community. We are sad to see her go but wish her all the best in her new adventure with the Greater Fredericksburg Habitat for Humanity. 

Beginning January 1, Sam Rabon will serve as the Interim Executive Director. Sam is the Director of Resource Development and Marketing and has been with Piedmont Habitat for nine years. 

Sheri Almond

President, Board of Directors

Piedmont Habitat for Humanity