Joan Costello Says Goodbye As Executive Director

Joani says goodbye as Habitat’s Executive Director

To all Habitat Donors, Volunteers, Homeowners and Friends,

For 33 years, we have served low income families in the greater Albuquerque area through financial literacy and helping them achieve homeownership. Our Habitat affiliate has seen a lot of faces come and go throughout the years, wonderful people who have been instrumental in the success of fulfilling our mission.

Joan Costello with a Habitat Family — *Joan Costello celebrating with Ahmad and Brishna’s family as they sign the paper work that officially makes them first time home buyers with Habitat.*

Since 2006, I have been a part of the Habitat family as a volunteer, board member, and Board President and since 2013, as Executive Director. It has been the most fulfilling time in my life and I will always have Habitat in my heart and continue to serve, but I have decided that it is now time for me to retire and let another person take the reins.

On July 1st, Douglas (Doug) Champlin will take over the duties as Interim Executive Director. Doug joined the Habitat team as Operations Director 5 years ago and is totally immersed in our culture. He has shown great leadership, and I am confident that he will serve this organization well and continue to guide its growth. In July, Habitat and Doug will welcome a new board president, Natalia Griffin, to assist with the transition and provide leadership for the board as they govern the affiliate.

Habitat for Humanity Executive Director says goodbye — *Joan Costello, outgoing Executive Director, passes the hammer to Habitat’s incoming Interim Executive Director, Doug Champlin.*

I can never begin to thank you enough for the support, dedication and commitment you have shown. This affiliate has grown over the years and is now financially strong and stable. The staff I have had the honor to lead are the finest group of professionals anywhere, and I have created many friendships with our volunteers and donors that I will treasure forever.

We are living in very uncertain and unsettling times, but I am confident that the work of Habitat will continue to thrive as we hold on to those priorities that define who we are. There is so much joy in what we do, and that is a great reason to celebrate!

I wish you good health and God’s blessings.

Joan Costello
Greater Albuquerque Habitat Executive Director, 2013 – 2020

Joani’s Surprise Farewell Retirement Celebration

Below is a recording of the surprise Zoom retirement celebration for Joan Costello, Greater Albuquerque Habitat for Humanity’s amazing Executive Director, friend and biggest cheerleader!

Thank you Joani for everything you have done for Habitat families. Your love and support and leadership has been a blessing for our community.