Some of the most dedicated members of our organization are our Board of Directors. As Lily’s terms on the Board have come to an end, she has chosen to share her reflection with us.
Lily has spent years making a tangible difference in the lives of families across Vermont through her work with Green Mountain Habitat for Humanity. Her journey with the organization began in 2017, and her dedication to its mission has been unwavering ever since.
With a professional background steeped in public health, Lily’s career naturally intersected with housing issues. She worked as an attorney in Vermont’s Division of Environmental Health, addressing concerns such as lead paint in aging homes and asthma triggers for children.
These experiences sparked her interest in the connections between housing and health, laying the foundation for her future involvement with Green Mountain Habitat for Humanity.
“One of the biggest problems in Vermont is the lack of affordable, safe housing,” Lily explained. “Our state’s housing stock is old and often not well-maintained. When I learned more about Green Mountain Habitat for Humanity, I realized how effective they were in addressing these issues by building energy-efficient, healthy homes and helping families achieve homeownership.”
Lily joined the Family Selection Committee in 2017, a role that involved reviewing applications from potential partner families, conducting interviews, and assessing their current living conditions. This committee ensures that selected families meet Habitat’s criteria, such as living in overcrowded or substandard housing.
“I loved getting to know the families and seeing their passion for creating better lives for themselves,” she said. Her dedication and leadership skills soon led her to chair the Family Selection Committee and, in 2019, to join the Board of Directors. She later served as Vice President from 2020 to 2022 and President for three years.
Reflecting on her time on the Board, Lily shared several standout moments. One of the earliest families she worked with was a young couple with twins and a newborn baby, and she saw them move out of a crowded household into their own home.
“They were incredibly dedicated, going above and beyond the required volunteer hours,” she said. “It was so rewarding to see them take pride in their new home and know they were building a brighter future for their family.”
Lily also highlighted the emotional impact of home dedication ceremonies. These events mark the moment families officially take ownership of their homes, often surrounded by extended family and community members.
“Seeing their pride and gratitude is incredible,” she said. “One family even catered the event to thank everyone involved. It’s a reminder of why we do this work.”
Lily acknowledged the growing challenges in creating affordable housing, from rising costs of supplies and land to a tightening labor market. Yet, she remains optimistic about Green Mountain Habitat’s ability to adapt and continue its mission.
“Because we rely on volunteers to build homes, we can keep costs low and make homeownership accessible for families who might otherwise be priced out,” she said.

Although Lily’s time on the Board has ended, her commitment to Green Mountain Habitat for Humanity remains strong. She continues to advocate for the organization, encouraging others to volunteer, donate, and shop at our three ReStore.
“I’m excited to watch the organization grow and see future build projects come to life,” she said.
Lily’s time on the Board of Directors is a testament to her passion for creating healthier, more equitable communities. Through her leadership, countless families have found stability and hope, embodying the true spirit of Habitat for Humanity’s mission.
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