SAW Habitat for Humanity Board Minutes January 7, 2013€¦ · Montgomery; Fred Grunder, Secretary; Salome Baugher and Pastor Jack Wilkers. Mr. Sabados opened the meeting with prayer

SAW Habitat for Humanity Board Minutes

January 7, 2013

Members of the Board Present: Charlie Frankfort, President; Frank Fletcher, Treasurer; Rhonda Howdyshell, Executive Director; Dr. Sue Burkholder; Susan Fisher; Mary Jorgensen; Ted Sabados and Vince Ennis, member at large.

Absent: Peggy Reed; Councilman Ophie Kier; Minnie Stevenson, Vice-President; Tom Montgomery; Fred Grunder, Secretary; Salome Baugher and Pastor Jack Wilkers.

Mr. Sabados opened the meeting with prayer.

The agenda was approved as presented, with the addition of a proposal for a fund-raiser.

Minutes: The minutes for the December meeting were approved as presented.

President’s Items: Mr. Frankfort reported that Mrs. Howdyshell has opened an account with Edward Jones in case we get any donations of stock. Habitat’s financial policy states that we have to sell the stock the day we receive it (unless specifically stated by the donor that it is not to be sold).

Treasurer’s and General Financial Report: The November 2012 financial reports were distributed. Mr. Fletcher reported that Habitat purchased 3 lots, which is why there is a large expenditure. Mrs. Howdyshell explained the recapture column on the summary balance sheet and the reason for in-house homeowners on the mortgage receivables report. ReStore sales were down for November.

Financial Resource Board: The gala will take place on January 26th from 6-9pm at the Stonewall Jackson Hotel. Mrs. Howdyshell reported that over $20,000 has been received for sponsorships. Auction items are still needed.

Executive Director’s Items: Mrs. Howdyshell asked when the new Board members would like to have an orientation. Tuesday, January 29th from 4 – 5:30pm was agreed on. The Volunteer/Donor Award dinner is February 10th at Tinkling Spring Presbyterian Church. Mrs. Howdyshell told the committee that annual reviews for Keith Hutchens, Laura Knowles and Barbi Moon-Theado will be completed by the end of January. If anyone has any comments to share with Rhonda, please do.

Committee Reports:

• Community Relations: Publicity stories were distributed.

• Family Partnership: Per minutes mailed/e-mailed. Mr. Sabados reported that two application meetings are set up. One family speaks Spanish. Mrs. Fisher stated that her husband speaks fluent Spanish and may be able to help. A recommendation for partnership was distributed and approved by the members present.

An e-mail request for approval will be sent to members not present.

• Construction Committee: Nothing was discussed.

• Nominating Committee: Nothing was discussed.

• (Adhoc) Mortgage Portfolio: Dr. Burkholder will join this committee.

• Real Estate: Per minutes mailed/e-mailed. Mrs. Howdyshell stated that some offers for land have been received.

• (Adhoc) Investment Committee: Nothing was discussed.

• ReStore Committee: Per minutes mailed/e-mailed.

• Volunteer Coordination: Per minutes mailed/e-mailed.

• (Adhoc) Audit Committee: A meeting will be scheduled when the 990’s are closed.

Strategic Plan/By-Laws: Committees are looking at their goals and objectives for the current year.

Old Business: None was discussed.

New Business: Mrs. Howdyshell passed out information from HFHI about a Community Revitalization project. If our Habitat wants to become an HFHI’s New Revitalization Initiative (NRI) affiliate, then we help by reporting what we do in this area and appropriately brand and identify ourselves as an NRI affiliate. This means including other organizations into planning and executing the initiatives and an array of services including weatherization in smaller ABWK projects.

Michael Gill, our ReStore pick-up manager, was injured in a small explosion accident. He has 2nd degree burns and was in the hospital in Charlottesville. He is at home recovering now.

Dr. Amato, a chiropractor in Staunton, is giving a certificate to the gala auction for a free initial consultation, which includes x-rays. He would also like to do a fundraiser for SAW Habitat, which would consist of a free consultation for new patients who donate $40 or more to Habitat. Board members present approved the fundraiser. An e-mail request for approval will be sent to members not present.

Mr. Grunder had left a news article about 990’s and charitable spending. Copies were distributed.

Mrs. Howdyshell closed the meeting with prayer. The next Board meeting will be Monday, February 4, 2013 at 6:30 pm.


February 4, 2013

Members of the Board Present: Charlie Frankfort, President; Frank Fletcher, Treasurer; Rhonda Howdyshell, Executive Director; Susan Fisher; Minnie Stevenson, Vice-President; Ted Sabados and guest, Jim Hendrix.

Absent: Peggy Reed; Councilman Ophie Kier; Tom Montgomery; Dr. Sue Burkholder; Fred Grunder, Secretary; Mary Jorgensen; Salome Baugher and Pastor Jack Wilkers.


The agenda was approved as presented.

Minutes: The minutes for the January meeting were approved as presented.

President’s Items: Mr. Frankfort reported that the annual affirmation of the affiliate covenant needs to be signed by all Board members. Mr. Hendrix introduced himself to the Board.

Treasurer’s and General Financial Report: The December 2012 financial reports were distributed. Mr. Fletcher reported that deposits were up from December 2011, due to the gala. Recapture was explained by Mrs. Howdyshell. Mr. Fletcher stated that the detailed income statement will be given on a quarterly basis. It is available if anyone wants to see it. Mortgage receivables were discussed. Mrs. Howdyshell told the Board that a meeting was held with one homeowner who is considerably behind on their mortgage. A plan was agreed upon to get current. She will pay her arrearage with her income tax refund, and start paying her monthly payments regularly, by having them automatically deducted from her checking account. Mrs. Howdyshell explained to Mr. Hendricks how Habitat tries to work with our homeowners to keep them in their homes instead of foreclosing.

Financial Resource Board: The gala took place on January 26th at the Stonewall Jackson Hotel. A report was distributed. The November 2011 gala report was given as a comparison. A significant difference was noted in donations, as well as spending. In 2011, a profit of $3,909.60 was received. This year, a profit of $21,982.71 was made. The gala next year will be at Stonewall again, on January 25th, 2014.

Executive Director’s Items: Mrs. Howdyshell had the Board members present sign a waiver for this year. It is HFHI’s policy that volunteers sign a waiver every year. The Volunteer/Donor Recognition Dinner is Sunday, February 10th. Mrs. Howdyshell asked the members present if they planned on attending. The Radiothon is March 11th – 13th. The Home Show is March 22nd-24th. A sign-up sheet to volunteer at the gate or at the Habitat table was available. Mrs. Howdyshell wrote a summary of the past 20 years of SAW Habitat’s progress and milestones. Copies were distributed, along with a CHR (Critical Home Repair) publicity story. Mrs. Howdyshell elaborated on the homes SAW has built, and how much they are

worth - not only monetarily, but in the community. Mr. Frankfort stated that our affiliate also paid to build over 72 homes in other countries by tithing.

Committee Reports:

• Community Relations: Per minutes mailed/emailed. This committee is meeting at the same time as the Volunteer committee, due to declining members.

• Family Partnership: Per minutes mailed/e-mailed. A CHR partnership was recommended jointly with the Construction committee.

• Construction Committee: Per minutes mailed/e-mailed. A CHR partnership was recommended together with the Family Partnership committee. Members present approved the repair. *


• (Adhoc) Mortgage Portfolio: Nothing was discussed.

• Real Estate: Per minutes mailed/e-mailed.



• Volunteer Coordination: Per minutes mailed/e-mailed. This committee is meeting at the same time as the Community Relations committee, due to declining members.

• (Adhoc) Audit Committee: Nothing was discussed.

Strategic Plan/By-Laws: Committees are looking at their goals and objectives for the current year.


New Business: Bank resolutions were discussed. Signatures were retrieved from those needed.

Mrs. Howdyshell closed the meeting with prayer. The next Board meeting will be Monday, March 4, 2013 at 6:30 pm.

* As a quorum was not present – members absent were polled for their vote via e-mail and a quorum was reached to ratify the Board actions taken.


March 4, 2013

Members of the Board Present: Charlie Frankfort, President; Frank Fletcher, Treasurer; Rhonda Howdyshell, Executive Director; Susan Fisher; Pastor Jack Wilkers; Minnie Stevenson, Vice-President; Mary Jorgensen; Salome Baugher; Ted Sabados ; Tom Montgomery; Dr. Sue Burkholder and Jim Hendrix.

Absent: Peggy Reed; Councilman Ophie Kier and Fred Grunder, Secretary

Mr. Montgomery opened the meeting with prayer.

The agenda was approved as presented, with the exception of the addition of an ACTION item under Family Partnership.

Minutes: The minutes for the February meeting were approved as presented.

President’s Items: The annual affirmation of the affiliate covenant was signed by all Board members who hadn’t signed it last month. Mrs. Howdyshell told the Board about a new yearly fee of $7,500 from HFHI called the Stewardship & Organizational Sustainability Initiative (SOSI). There is a comment period prior to implementation of this new fee. This fee is in addition to the tithe, which goes to building homes in other countries. The Board discussed what HFHI provides to our affiliate, including grants. Pastor Wilkers doesn’t agree with the large amount of the fee.

Treasurer’s and General Financial Report: The January 2013 financial reports were distributed and discussed. The Board supports the way the revised reports look. Mortgage receivables were discussed. There are 3 homeowners that are still considerably behind.

Financial Resource Board: The final report from the gala was distributed. A profit of $15,602.71 was realized. The figures last month included in-kind donations. Next year the gala will be on January 25th, 2014 at the Stonewall Jackson Hotel. Mr. Montgomery reported that the gala was well received and some individuals have told him that would like to be invited next year. The Capital Campaign is progressing. There are still a number of people who need to know that Habitat doesn’t “give away” homes. Mr. Montgomery gave Pastor Wilkers his award for helping with the Radiothon every year. (Pastor Wilkers could not attend the Volunteer dinner last month.)

Executive Director’s Items: Mrs. Howdyshell gave Mr. Frankfort his Distinguished Service award. (Mr. Frankfort could not attend the Volunteer dinner last month.) The Radiothon is scheduled for March 11th – 13th. Posters and pledge sheets were given to each member to try and get pledges. The Home Show is scheduled for March 22nd-24th. A sign-up sheet to volunteer at both events was circulated to Board members. The annual affiliate training will be held in Roanoke May 8th, 9th & 10th. The 8th is for new affiliate leader training, which would

be good for newer Board members. Information on the training will be forwarded with the minutes.

Committee Reports:

• Community Relations: Per minutes mailed/emailed. This committee is meeting at the same time as the Volunteer committee, due to fewer members.

• Family Partnership: Per minutes mailed/e-mailed. A recommendation came from this committee to accept an addition to Jessica Grier’s partnership. Her boyfriend James is the father of her son. She would like James to be able to live with her in her Habitat home. His name would not be on the mortgage. James had some issues on his background check. The Board discussed these concerns. The Board approved the conditional recommendation. (appended to these minutes)

• Construction Committee: Per minutes mailed/e-mailed. The care-a-vanners will be cancelled this year, due to lack of a partner family. The Board discussed CHR’s (critical home repairs).



• Real Estate: Per minutes mailed/e-mailed. A budget for $120,000 was requested by this committee. The committee has identified a number of good properties for Habitat in Staunton and Waynesboro. They will now focus on Augusta County properties.


• ReStore Committee: Per minutes mailed/e-mailed. Mr. Frankfort told the Board that Keith Hutchens is no longer with the ReStore.

• Volunteer Coordination: Per minutes mailed/e-mailed. This committee is meeting at the same time as the Community Relations committee, due to fewer members and similar objectives.


Strategic Plan/By-Laws:


New Business:

Mrs. Howdyshell closed the meeting with prayer. The next Board meeting will be Monday, April 1, 2013 at 6:30 pm.


April 1, 2013

Members of the Board Present: Charlie Frankfort, President; Frank Fletcher, Treasurer; Rhonda Howdyshell, Executive Director; Pastor Jack Wilkers; Fred Grunder, Secretary; Minnie Stevenson, Vice-President; Mary Jorgensen; Salome Baugher; Ted Sabados; Councilman Ophie Kier and Jim Hendrix.

Absent: Peggy Reed; Susan Fisher; Dr. Sue Burkholder and Tom Montgomery

Mr. Kier opened the meeting with prayer.


Minutes: The minutes for the March meeting were approved as presented.

President’s Items: Mrs. Howdyshell stated that HFHI is combining the annual covenant and quality assurance report together and will process this in July. Mrs. Howdyshell reported that our affiliate report has been filed to keep SAW Habitat an affiliate in good standing with HFHI.

Treasurer’s and General Financial Report: The financial reports were distributed and discussed. Mr. Fletcher reported that some revisions have been made to make the reports easier to understand.

There are still a few homeowners that are significantly behind on their mortgages. The Mortgage Portfolio committee and the Executive Committee will meet and decide what to do with these mortgages. Efforts will be made to have delinquent families come in for a meeting with a Board member and Habitat staff.

Financial Resource Board: Nothing was discussed.

Executive Director’s Items: The Business after Hours event will be held at the ReStore on April 25th from 5:30-7:30pm. Homemade meatballs and other party trays will be served and a band will be playing. A volunteer sign-up sheet was available.

The affiliate training will be in Roanoke in May. Grants in process were discussed and it was noted that grants normally obtained for home building could not be realized due to not building this year. This amounts to over a $130,000 reduction in this funding area.

Committee Reports:

• Community Relations: Per minutes mailed/emailed.

• Family Partnership: Per minutes mailed/e-mailed. Mr. Sabados presented the recommendation from this committee to accept a single father of two as a partner

for a home. The Board approved the partnership. Two recommendations came from both this committee and the Construction committee to accept two CHR families. Mr. Sabados presented the cases. The repairs needed for both homes were discussed. The Board approved the recommendation of applicant 1127B as a CHR partner. They approved the recommendation of applicant 87A as a CHR partner with the estimated costs, provided asbestos and lead paint removal are not found to be additional cost issues. If added costs are identified, 87A would have to come back to the Board for approval. New posters and brochures were distributed to Board members to put up in the community. Partner families for new homes are needed.

• Construction Committee: Per minutes mailed/e-mailed. Two recommendations came from this committee along with the Family Partnership committee to accept two CHR partners. The Board approved the recommendations as stated above.


• (Adhoc) Mortgage Portfolio: Some face-to-face interviews with families that are significantly behind have been done. More interviews are needed, with a member of the Board present. One letter has been sent stating if payments aren’t made, foreclosure proceedings will be started. Three delinquent families need meetings. (Letters will be sent and calls will be made requesting a meeting.)



• ReStore Committee: Per minutes mailed/e-mailed. Lots that may be recommended in the near future were discussed.





New Business:

Pastor Wilkers closed the meeting with prayer. The next Board meeting will be Monday, May 6, 2013 at 6:30 pm.


May 6, 2013

Members of the Board Present: Charlie Frankfort, President; Frank Fletcher, Treasurer; Rhonda Howdyshell, Executive Director; Pastor Jack Wilkers; Fred Grunder, Secretary; Minnie Stevenson, Vice-President; Mary Jorgensen; Susan Fisher; Dr. Sue Burkholder; Salome Baugher; Ted Sabados; Tom Montgomery; Jim Hendrix and Vince Ennis, guest.

Absent: Peggy Reed and Councilman Ophie Kier

Mr. Frankfort opened the meeting with prayer.


Minutes: The minutes for the April meeting were approved as presented.

President’s Items: Mr. Frankfort said the Business after Hours event held at the ReStore went very well. There were still people that didn’t know about the ReStore, or thought it was a storeroom for our building materials. Mrs. Jorgensen said one attendee stated he is clearing out a storage facility, and will be bringing items to us.

Treasurer’s and General Financial Report: The financial reports were distributed and discussed. Mr. Fletcher commended Tammy Rowzie, the new bookkeeper, for a new mortgage receivables report. It shows that even though a number of homeowners in-house are behind a number of months on their mortgage, they are still making regular payments. Ms Rowzie has been inputting mortgage payments in a mortgage handling program in Keystone and found one person wasn’t behind like we thought they were. The fiscal year 2014 budget needs to be put together. Each committee will be asked for a list of projects needing financial support and an estimated amount needed to complete the projects.

Financial Resource Board: Mr. Montgomery stated they are concentrating on promoting the Waynesboro townhome project. Mr. Alexander has volunteered to assist in fundraising efforts for the townhome project and Mrs. Howdyshell is working on a zero interest loan for the infrastructure. The next meeting of the Financial Resource Board will be May 15th (changed to the 22nd) at the former Staunton Shoney’s.

Executive Director’s Items: Habitat employees will be at the affiliate training in Roanoke next Thursday and Friday, May 9th and 10th.

Committee Reports:

• Community Relations: Per minutes mailed/emailed.

• Family Partnership: Per minutes mailed/e-mailed. The committee recommended a family of 6 for partnership for a Habitat home. The Board approved the recommendation. The committee recommended an immigration policy that

would only permit partners having permanent legal status. The Board approved the recommendation.

• Construction Committee: Per minutes mailed/e-mailed. The Critical Home Repair program is going well. A rehab assessment was done on 109 Vickers Way. There may be a house donated to Habitat that would be a major rehab project. Some committee members would prefer to tear it down and build a new home.



• Real Estate: Per minutes mailed/e-mailed. Mr. Frankfort told the Board that the committee has declined the Augusta County property in Verona.


• ReStore Committee: Per minutes mailed/e-mailed. Last month was a very good month for sales. The effort to schedule early morning pickups has been working well. The ReStore has been rearranged and looks more inviting. The side storage room is being utilized for donation drop-offs to keep the office area uncluttered.


• (Adhoc) Audit Committee: A meeting will be held Monday, May 20th at 1pm. Reports have been emailed to committee members.



New Business: None was discussed.

Pastor Wilkers closed the meeting with prayer. The next Board meeting will be Monday, June 3, 2013 at 6:30 pm.


June 3, 2013

Members of the Board Present: Charlie Frankfort, President; Frank Fletcher, Treasurer; Rhonda Howdyshell, Executive Director; Minnie Stevenson, Vice-President; Susan Fisher; Dr. Sue Burkholder; Salome Baugher; Ted Sabados and Jim Hendrix.

Absent: Pastor Jack Wilkers; Mary Jorgensen; Tom Montgomery; Fred Grunder, Secretary; Peggy Reed and Councilman Ophie Kier.



Minutes: The minutes for the May meeting were approved.

President’s Items: The budget process is underway and the new estimated numbers have been entered. Mrs. Howdyshell, Ms Rowzie (the bookkeeper) and Mr. Fletcher will continue to work on completing a draft budget. The proposed budget will then be sent to the Board via e-mail. Suggested edits may be e-mailed back. The Board will then discuss and approve the budget at the July meeting. The electronic vote decision for the Critical Home Repair partner recommendation had been approved and was discussed. A handout on tithing was distributed. Countries chosen to help this year as part of the tithing requirement were Ethiopia, Bangladesh and Malawi. Mrs. Howdyshell heard about a new HFHI program where we could designate our tithe dollars to help someone from our affiliate to travel to another country to help build a home in that country. She has contacted the tithe office for more information.

Treasurer’s and General Financial Report: The financial reports were distributed and discussed. Letters were sent to homeowners that are behind in their mortgage payments. One individual hasn’t paid on their mortgage in over a year. The Board members present agreed to have Phil Miller send a foreclosure letter to that individual. Mrs. Howdyshell will e-mail the rest of the Board for their vote on this matter. In order to forego the full foreclosure process, the Habitat cash for keys program could be initiated.

Financial Resource Board: A meeting will be held on June 19th. Gala chairs for next year have been chosen. Sponsorships and auction items are being solicited. The projects SAW Habitat is involved with will be showcased to each area (Staunton, Waynesboro, Augusta County) at private get-togethers.

Executive Director’s Items: An event proposal was distributed. A cornhole tournament is being held by Frontier Community Bank on September 12th. The top three participants will select the charity to which they would like to donate. CASA, SAW Habitat and Cats Cradle would be the organizations from which to choose. Board members present approved the event. Mrs. Howdyshell will e-mail the rest of the Board for their vote on this event.

Committee Reports:

• Community Relations: A newspaper article was distributed and a children’s sermon will be given at Fishersville United Methodist.

• Family Partnership: Per minutes mailed/e-mailed. Mr. Sabados told the Board about a home visit in which he participated.

• Construction Committee: Mrs. Howdyshell applied for a no-interest loan from the Housing Trust Fund. If approved, it can be used to begin work on the Kirby & C townhome community project. Work has started on the CHR home approved by electronic vote.


• (Adhoc) Mortgage Portfolio: As was discussed under the treasurer’s report.

• Real Estate: Nothing was discussed.


• ReStore Committee: Per minutes mailed/e-mailed. Mr. Frankfort reported that sales have been very good.

• Volunteer Coordination: Nothing was discussed.

• (Adhoc) Audit Committee: Per minutes mailed/e-mailed. A recommendation for a by-law change was discussed. Instead of meeting quarterly, it was recommended that the committee only meet twice a year. Board members present approved the recommendation. Mrs. Howdyshell will e-mail the rest of the Board for their vote on this matter.

Strategic Plan/By-Laws: Nothing was discussed.


New Business: Mrs. Howdyshell showed the Board a newspaper story about the Family Resource Center shutting down - due to not receiving a grant. Mrs. Howdyshell stressed to the Board that SAW Habitat doesn’t count on just one grant. Grants are applied for from a number of organizations. Chili’s is having a fundraiser for SAW Habitat. We will receive 10% - 20% of the sale for each coupon presented between June 16th and 20th. Coupons are available at the SAW Habitat office and ReStore, and will be e-mailed to those in our database. Mrs. Howdyshell assisted Liz apply for a grant from Augusta Health for the Community Garden. Salome said that in the Central Shenandoah Planning Commission’s newsletter, they talked about different grants and she didn’t know if there were any for which we could apply. Salome will obtain the information for Mrs. Howdyshell.

The meeting was closed with prayer. The next Board meeting will be Monday, July 1, 2013 at 6:30 pm.

SAW Habitat for Humanity Board Minutes July 1, 2013

Members of the Board Present: Charlie Frankfort, President; Frank Fletcher, Treasurer; Rhonda Howdyshell, Executive Director; Councilman Ophie Kier; Salome Baugher; Minnie Stevenson, Vice-President; Susan Fisher; Dr. Sue Burkholder; Tom Montgomery; Ted Sabados; Fred Grunder, Secretary; and Jim Hendrix.

Absent: Pastor Jack Wilkers; Mary Jorgensen and Peggy Reed.

Mr. Hendrix opened the meeting with prayer.


Minutes: The minutes for the June meeting were approved.

President’s Items: The new budget was distributed. The Board discussed audit costs and ReStore salary allocations. Ms Baugher had some questions about the Capital Campaign numbers that Mrs. Howdyshell answered satisfactorily. The Board went into executive session to discuss a personnel issue. When the new health care law takes effect, Habitat can no longer reimburse contract employees for their health care premiums. A medical savings plan could possibly be established. The Board approved the budget for fiscal year 2013-2014. Ms Baugher suggested sending information out sooner, so everyone would have sufficient time to look it over. The Board agreed that when able, information should be sent in a timely manner.

Treasurer’s and General Financial Report: The financial reports were distributed and discussed. A foreclosure is in process. The homeowner wants to work something out, but until she starts paying on the amount she is behind, the foreclosure process will continue. Another homeowner had passed away and left her home to her children. The mortgage balance is only $874, and they refuse to pay it. VHDA has been paying the insurance and taxes on it, so they owe $675 to VHDA as well. Taxes may also be due again in July. Mrs. Howdyshell asked Mr. Kier and Mrs. Burkholder if they would visit and speak with the family. Mr. Kier took the pertinent information to make the visit and Mrs. Burkholder will accompany him for training.

Financial Resource Board: A meeting was held on June 19th. Brigadier General William Alexander will handle most of the fundraising for Waynesboro and parts of Augusta County.

Executive Director’s Items: A newspaper article and a TV3 story were distributed about SAW Habitat helping the family in Verona save their home through the Critical Home Repair program. Cargill provided a group of volunteers who were working on the home that day. Mrs. Howdyshell thanked Mr. Montgomery for helping the family with the repairs. Mrs. Howdyshell announced SAW Habitat is the FY14 recipient of a $3,000 training CAPSAW grant. In order to keep the grant, additional personal questions need to be asked of each person served by our program. Mrs. Howdyshell will find out what else Habitat needs to do, and ask about a database that is used to keep track of the information.

Committee Reports:

• Family Partnership: Per minutes mailed/e-mailed. A recommendation came from this committee to allow Jessica Grier and her boyfriend to move into the Ashby St. home August 1st if they have their 250 hours of sweat equity complete. The Board agrees that Board approval is not needed if they have all of their hours done. The Board approved the recommendation, changing it to say that they may move in if their hours aren’t finished. They would have until August 30th to complete the hours. The committee also recommended a policy that SAW Habitat makes sure that all CHR homes have smoke detectors and/or carbon monoxide detectors. The Board approved the policy. New partner family stories were distributed.



• (Adhoc) Mortgage Portfolio: As discussed under the Treasurer’s Report.

Real Estate: Per minutes mailed/e-mailed. A recommendation came from this committee to accept the donation of a lot at 815 Heydenreich St. that would be used by Habitat as a permanent garden. The Board approved the donation. A recommendation to buy back a Habitat home at 109 Vickers Way was made by this committee. The Board discussed the details and approved the purchase of the home. There is a house that Stellar One would like to donate to Habitat at 1204 W. Johnson St. Habitat could tear the current structure down and build a new home or rehab the existing house. The Board approved accepting the property.



• Volunteer Coordination/Community Relations: Per minutes mailed/e-mailed.




New Business: Mrs. Fisher said she drove through Vickers Way and a few of the homes had tall grass, and a lot of trash and other stuff visible on several of the properties. The Board stated that a Homeowner’s Association could alleviate the situation but is probably not possible at this time. Mrs. Howdyshell said that instances of poorly kept properties should be brought up in the Family Partnership committee. Mrs. Howdyshell said Habitat receives a copy of a citation if a home gets cited by the city. (Mrs. Howdyshell inspected the Staunton properties the next morning and took pictures. She also spoke to the homeowner with the tall grass.) A letter with photos and prodding residents to have pride in their home will follow.

Mrs. Howdyshell closed the meeting with prayer.

The next Board meeting will be Monday, August 5, 2013 at 6:30 pm.

SAW Habitat for Humanity Board Minutes August 5, 2013

Members of the Board Present: Charlie Frankfort, President; Rhonda Howdyshell, Executive Director; Councilman Ophie Kier; Pastor Jack Wilkers; Salome Baugher; Minnie Stevenson, Vice-President; Ted Sabados; and Jim Delong Hendrix.

Absent: Frank Fletcher, Treasurer; Fred Grunder, Secretary; Susan Fisher; Dr. Sue Burkholder; Tom Montgomery; Mary Jorgensen and Peggy Reed.

Pastor Wilkers opened the meeting with prayer.


Minutes: The minutes for the July meeting were approved.

President’s Items:

Treasurer’s and General Financial Report: The financial reports were distributed and discussed. Mr. Fletcher was unable to attend the meeting, but he had reviewed the reports earlier and he pointed out these items: A $20,000 gift designated for an Augusta County home, which was used for the Critical Home Repair in Verona, a ReStore payroll jump of $5,000 due to workman’s comp insurance and ReStore sales have gone down a bit. Mrs. Howdyshell also told the Board that Mr. Fletcher is reviewing the presentation of information and if future reports can be only operational based. In-kinds and assets would be shown separately.

The mortgage receivables were discussed. Two families are discussing bankruptcy with an attorney. They would like to keep their homes. They have too much equity in their homes which requires them to affirm the mortgage debt and then to make payments towards the other debt as determined by the bankruptcy court. One also lives in a 2 bedroom home and wants a 3 bedroom. Mrs. Stevenson will speak with them. They would do better to sell their homes and pay off all of their debts. Pastor Wilkers suggested sending positive reinforcement letters to those who are not behind on their mortgages to encourage them to stay current.

Ms. Calloway has not attempted to follow-up with anything she committed to doing. She hasn’t made any mortgage payments for 19 months. Mrs. Howdyshell discussed the cash for keys program. The Board would rather not do that since she hasn’t paid for so long. The Board did agree to proceed with an offer of a deed in lieu of foreclosure. If she doesn’t respond to the offer, then the foreclosure that is already in process would continue.

Financial Resource Board: Mrs. Howdyshell met with Mr. Montgomery and the fundraising board, who is being asked to help with the gala. A gala sponsor packet was distributed to the Board members and they were asked to look over the private sponsor list for people they know and get back to Rhonda if they could help by asking the people they know on the list for a sponsorship of the gala. Mrs. Stevenson and Mrs. Howdyshell will work on Fisher Auto

Parts. Mrs. Howdyshell asked Board members to think of places to obtain items for the silent auction. She discussed the layout of the room and where sponsor tables will be located. Tickets will be available for sale on the website, or by calling Barbi Moon-Theado at the Habitat office (886-1944 extension 106).

Executive Director’s Items: Newspaper articles were distributed on the Barnack family giving back to SAW Habitat and the gala co-chairs.

Committee Reports:

• Family Partnership: Per minutes mailed/e-mailed. A recommendation came from this committee to deny an applicant based on insufficient work history and too much debt-to-income ratio. Members present approved denying the applicant. A recommendation was also made to take a mortgage holder back from VHDA. They owe less than $1,000 on the mortgage and another $1,000 on back taxes and insurance payments to VHDA. The family is willing to make $300 a month payments until they are paid off. Members present approved the recommendation.*






• ReStore Committee: Per minutes mailed/e-mailed. Mrs. Howdyshell told the Board how items being priced over $500 are being tracked for the IRS.

• Volunteer Coordination/Community Relations: Per minutes mailed/e-mailed. Mrs. Howdyshell told the Board that she met with a representative from Fisher Auto Parts and they hope to display Habitat housing information for their employees. A few additional approvals are needed to do so.




New Business: Upcoming events were discussed. One event took place last Saturday, August 3rd at Phoenix Repair. The owner is Mr. Campbell’s (our excavator) son. The Chic-Fil-A event has been cancelled, but will be re-scheduled. A cornhole tournament will be held at the Frontier Community Bank on September 12th at 5pm. Mrs. Howdyshell took a certificate to Chili’s for their last fundraiser effort for SAW Habitat. A check for about $70 will be received from their corporate office. Another fundraiser will be held the week of the Habitat

International Day of Prayer, October 6th - 12th. Coupons were provided to Board members. For each coupon turned in at Chili’s that week, up to 20% of sales will be given to SAW Habitat. A mailing to churches will be going out for the Day of Prayer and Chili’s fliers will be given as well. The Board approved the fundraiser.


The next Board meeting will be Tuesday, September 3, 2013 at 6:30 pm.

* As a quorum was not present – members absent were polled for their votes via e-mail and a quorum was reached to ratify the Board actions taken.


September 3, 2013

Members of the Board Present: Charlie Frankfort, President; Rhonda Howdyshell, Executive Director; Pastor Jack Wilkers; Frank Fletcher, Treasurer; Fred Grunder, Secretary; Salome Baugher; Ted Sabados; and Jim Delong Hendrix.

Absent: Councilman Ophie Kier; Minnie Stevenson, Vice-President; Susan Fisher; Dr. Sue Burkholder; Tom Montgomery; Mary Jorgensen and Peggy Reed.

Pastor Wilkers opened the meeting with prayer.


Minutes: The minutes for the August meeting were approved.

President’s Items: New Board members and officers are needed for next year. The Board discussed possible candidates. New 2013 Board members are featured in the newsletter.

Treasurer’s and General Financial Report: The financial reports were distributed and discussed. Mr. Fletcher reported that the funds from the ReStore for their part of bills for the year have been transferred to the affiliate account. The ReStore has had a few good months. The mortgage receivables were discussed. Mrs. Howdyshell met with our attorney and he stated that he cannot do the foreclosure on Ms Calloway, since he is a trustee for the property. We are trying to find another lawyer to assume the foreclosure. One mortgage that has been taken back in-house from VHDA needs to be moved over to the internal reports. Mrs. Howdyshell will be attending a bankruptcy hearing for one homeowner.

Mrs. Howdyshell told the Board that Mr. Roland Carlton spoke at a partner education last month about what happens if a Habitat homeowner files bankruptcy. He explained that a Habitat home is great, except for the equity being built up very quickly. Mr. Carlton suggested Habitat charge interest on the recapture, so it would show a longer obligation on the second mortgage. Habitat could then forgive the interest when the mortgage is paid off. The Board doesn’t know if that would be allowable under Habitat policy which says we “should not charge interest to the poor.” The only other option if a homeowner didn’t want to file bankruptcy would be to sell their home and use the proceeds to pay off their bills. They could then go into HUD housing and re-apply for a Habitat home when they could meet the requirements. The homeowners that are behind on their mortgage payments will be encouraged to attend an education class that Mr. Carlton will speak at.

Financial Resource Board: A newsletter is being printed and will be mailed soon. Articles on the gala are included, along with family stories and names of our donors last year. Mrs. Howdyshell discussed the SAW Habitat income pie chart she put in the newsletter. A party will be held at General William Alexander’s home on October 18th. The next WWYB (what will you build) luncheon will be Tuesday, September 24th at 12:30 at the old Shoney’s.

Executive Director’s Items: Newspaper articles and a TV3 story were distributed on the donation of the house to SAW Habitat from Stellar One Bank. A bank workday at the house is scheduled for October 3rd.

Committee Reports:

• Family Partnership: Per minutes mailed/e-mailed. A recommendation came from this committee to terminate a family’s partnership for unwillingness to partner by turning down an assigned home. The Board went into executive session to discuss reasons why the home was turned down. Board members present approved the recommendation.*




• Real Estate: Per minutes mailed/e-mailed. A lot on Breezewood Drive in the county is in the process of being purchased and the sale should be completed by the end of September. This lot should be good for a candidate family who can qualify for a USDA loan. Mrs. Howdyshell told the Board that a woman who is qualified for a USDA loan can’t find anything in her price range ($66,000) called her today. Mrs. Howdyshell encouraged her to apply to our program, and if accepted, may be a good match for this property.



• Volunteer Coordination/Community Relations: Per minutes mailed/e-mailed.




New Business: Rhonda will be on vacation next week.


The next Board meeting will be Monday, October 7, 2013 at 6:30 pm.

* Due to illness, Mr. Montgomery and Mrs. Stevenson could not attend the Board meeting. Both reviewed the committee recommendation and approved it, therefore a quorum was met on this Board action.

SAW Habitat for Humanity Board Minutes October 7, 2013

Members of the Board Present: Charlie Frankfort, President; Susan Fisher; Salome Baugher; Rhonda Howdyshell, Executive Director; Frank Fletcher, Treasurer; Fred Grunder, Secretary; Dr. Sue Burkholder; Jim Delong Hendrix and guests, Vince Ennis and Sally Dunn.

Members Absent: Pastor Jack Wilkers; Ted Sabados; Minnie Stevenson, Vice-President; Tom Montgomery; Councilman Ophie Kier; Mary Jorgensen and Peggy Reed.

The Board welcomed prospective new member, Sally Dunn and Vince Ennis, Board emeritus. Ms Dunn is a Habitat homeowner, and can provide the Board with insight from a partner’s perspective.

Mr. Ennis opened the meeting with prayer.


Minutes: The minutes for the September meeting were approved.

President’s Items: Habitat’s health insurance plan doesn’t comply with the new required standards, so the healthcare subsidy will end on December 31st for those Habitat employees that are receiving it. The new law requires all employees to receive a subsidy if one employee receives it. The letter about the new healthcare rules that SAW Habitat is required to provide to employees was reviewed and approved by the Executive Committee. They were then distributed to employees. Mrs. Howdyshell updated the SAW Habitat employee handbook by removing wording about Habitat’s insurance plans. Copies with strike-throughs, showing what will be removed from the handbook were distributed for Board review and approval. The Board approved the changes.

Treasurer’s and General Financial Report: The financial reports were distributed and discussed. ReStore sales for September were excellent. The affiliate was $3,000 in the red. Mrs. Howdyshell pointed out that if the ReStore reimbursements for utilities and services were made monthly, it would have brought the balance closer to zero.

An attorney still needs to be identified for foreclosures. The two lawyers that were solicited are not able, due to conflicts. Dr. Burkholder will ask an attorney that she knows.

The Critical Home Repair re-payments will now start when the repairs begin, instead of waiting until after the repairs are finished. A homeowner that filed a chapter 13 bankruptcy will keep paying their mortgage along with the court payments on other debt. They are currently a few months behind.

Mrs. Howdyshell reported on in-kinds not shown on the reports. SAW had received a house on Johnson St. in Staunton from Stellar One that was assessed at over $50,000, and a piece of property on Breezewood was purchased by SAW Habitat for $11,000 less than the appraised value. A lot valued at $20,000 will be donated to SAW Habitat for a permanent garden within the next few months. There were numerous services given to the affiliate – including $700 for property maintenance from Williams Brothers.

Financial Resource Board: The Oktoberfest party was cancelled. A spring event will now be planned. Invitations and envelopes for the gala in January are being printed and items for the silent auction are being collected.

Executive Director’s Items: Mrs. Howdyshell updated the committee on the annual appeal efforts. A newsletter was mailed, which included a donation envelope. Over $3,600 has been received thus far. An alternative gift postcard was mailed last week, showing the benefits of a donation in lieu of buying a present for someone. You can give a monetary donation to SAW Habitat in honor of or in memory of someone, and a holiday card will be mailed to the honoree or their family. A Thanksgiving card with an appeal letter will be mailed to top donors; and a Christmas ornament card will be sent to the top 300 donors, both of which will include donation envelopes. Mrs. Howdyshell will give a presentation to the city of Staunton. The city treasurer will send her a report that shows how much revenue SAW Habitat’s properties have been paid to the city in taxes so far. (The report showed $249,388 was paid through tax year 2012.) An award will be presented to city council for their help and support over the years.

Committee Reports:

• Family Partnership: Per minutes mailed/e-mailed.

• Construction Committee: The Care-a-Vanners have been booked for May.

• Nominating Committee: Mr. Ennis took Mrs. Howdyshell to meet someone and Mr. Grunder had invited Ms Dunn to attend this meeting.

• Real Estate: Per minutes mailed/e-mailed. Property in Augusta County is being sought. The USDA program for potential partners in Augusta County and whether to repair and upgrade, or demolish and rebuild the house given to Habitat by StellarOne was discussed.

• ReStore Committee: Per minutes mailed/e-mailed. The last few months of sales have been very good. Quality items are being donated, so they are priced higher. The tool sale is going well. A second replenishment tool order will be placed soon.

• Volunteer Coordination/Community Relations: Per minutes mailed/emailed. The Chili’s fundraiser is being held this week, October 6th - 12th. Coupons were provided to Board members. For each coupon turned in at Chili’s this week, up to 20% of sales will be given to SAW Habitat. Chili’s posters and fliers were sent with the mailing to churches about the International Day of Prayer and World Habitat Day.



• (Adhoc) Investment Committee: The endowment CD was discussed.

Strategic Plan/By-Laws: Mrs. Howdyshell will send the by-laws to Mr. Grunder to look over and determine if they need to be updated.

Old Business: No additional business was discussed.

New Business: Nomination forms for recognition awards were distributed. They are due back by the 1st of December. Mrs. Howdyshell is nominating StellarOne for the business award. The volunteer/donor recognition dinner will be in February. Some donor awards are given at the gala, as well.


The next Board meeting will be Monday, November 4, 2013 at 6:30 pm.

SAW Habitat for Humanity Board Minutes November 4, 2013

Members of the Board Present: Charlie Frankfort, President; Ted Sabados; Salome Baugher; Rhonda Howdyshell, Executive Director; Pastor Jack Wilkers; Minnie Stevenson, Vice-President; Frank Fletcher, Treasurer; Fred Grunder, Secretary; Mary Jorgensen; Dr. Sue Burkholder; Jim Delong Hendrix and upcoming new Board member, Sally Dunn.

Members Absent: Susan Fisher; Tom Montgomery; Councilman Ophie Kier; Peggy Reed and Alan Biskey, upcoming new Board member.

Mrs. Howdyshell opened the meeting with prayer.


Minutes: The minutes for the October meeting were approved as presented.

President’s Items: SAW HFH’s Quality Assurance Review questionnaire was reviewed. Pastor Wilkers questioned why Habitat suggests that we cannot accept anyone on the sexual offender database. He stated that sometimes, people are incorrectly listed on the database. Mrs. Howdyshell stated that SAW Habitat treats each case individually and does not solely depend on the database, but reviews any convictions. Mr. Frankfort said it might raise concerns within the community if SAW Habitat were to build a home for a known sexual offender. A question was also raised as to why the questionnaire was marked that SAW Habitat doesn’t have a Board approved policy that prohibits any actions or conduct which may discriminate against or harass any partner family or applicant. Mrs. Howdyshell stated that we do not have a Board approved written policy, although we do not discriminate. We do send letters when a homeowner is behind on their mortgages and they may receive a visit, but the Board agrees that addressing mortgage delinquencies shouldn’t be considered harassment. The Board concurs there needs to be a written policy.

HFHI would like all Habitat affiliates to agree to the non-proselytizing policy. A copy was distributed. Most policies issued are just common sense, but HFHI prefers written policies. Mrs. Howdyshell stated that SAW adopted the policies in the U.S. Affiliate Organizational Handbook in 2010. This is given to new Board members in their packet at orientation.

The Board approved the Quality Assurance Review and signed the annual covenant. The non-proselytizing policy was approved.

Treasurer’s and General Financial Report: The financial reports were distributed and discussed. Mr. Fletcher reported that last month’s affiliate’s cash position was better than the prior month.

ReStore sales for September were not as high as previous months, although it was the best September in the ReStore’s history.

The mortgage portfolio was discussed. Mrs. Howdyshell stated that Wayne Glass, an attorney in Waynesboro, (suggested by Dr. Burkholder) will work on the T. Calloway foreclosure. Habitat has also contacted another homeowner and told them that their house is under consideration for foreclosure and they needed to address their situation soon. One homeowner has just paid off

their mortgage. Mrs. Stevenson asked if Habitat has anything to do with the taxes after a home is paid off. Mrs. Howdyshell said that we do not. It is then the responsibility of the homeowner. Another homeowner has filed chapter 13 bankruptcy, although VHDA should continue to receive mortgage payments. Mr. Fletcher stated that three Critical Home Repair families are due to start payments this month. A few CHR partners have been making their payments on time, but some families aren’t making payments as agreed.

Financial Resource Board: Invitations for the January gala are being processed. So far, there are 5 sponsors. A Thanksgiving card was mailed to top donors and volunteers. One will also be mailed to homeowners and partners. Mr. Grunder asked for an update on how much money has been raised as a result of the Capital Campaign. Mrs. Howdyshell said she doesn’t know for sure, but it is around $395,000, which includes in-kind land and willed property. She thinks the house that was donated by StellarOne should also be included as part of the Capital Campaign. Mrs. Howdyshell said she will be contacting people about their pledges. Mr. Montgomery has been working diligently on this, but needs help. Mr. Manfield will be providing services again gratis, once a month. Mrs. Howdyshell said Staunton, Waynesboro and Augusta County want to support separate projects specific to their area – they don’t want to be grouped together.

Executive Director’s Items: CAPSAW is a new grant Habitat is receiving. Mrs. Howdyshell showed the Board the required forms to be completed, distributed the CAPSAW numbers spreadsheet and explained the requirements necessary to receive the grant. One condition is that the Board minutes have to reflect that they review the CAPSAW report quarterly. People from CAPSAW are meeting with Mrs. Howdyshell on the 7th of November to see how we retrieve and record the information collected; and to be sure we are in compliance with other requirements - no lobbying, confidentiality and child support enforcement. She asked Mr. Sabados and Mr. Frankfort to attend the meeting. The Board is concerned about the amount of personal information CAPSAW wants from our partner families. Mrs. Howdyshell believes they are taking a genuine interest in what we are doing and would like to help us do our job better. Mrs. Howdyshell would like to start a “homeowner’s club” to help with budgeting and credit repair for the applicants we turn down because of debt issues. Other Habitats reportedly have more qualified applicants ready for homeownership when they do so.

Committee Reports:

• Family Partnership: Per minutes mailed/e-mailed. A conflict of interest policy regarding SAW Habitat employees, relatives and volunteers who may use Habitat’s services is recommended by this committee for Board approval. Mr. Grunder asked why we need the policy if we already comply with the requirements stated in the policy. Mrs. Howdyshell stated it is like the other policies currently in place – we just need to have it in written form. The Board approved adoption of the conflict of interest policy. A CHR partner was recommended by both this committee and the Construction committee. The Board would like the estimated cost of the repairs to be shown in the CHR recommendations. Mr. Fletcher and Mrs. Howdyshell recall it was around $6,000 for this repair. The Board approved the CHR applicant. Mrs. Howdyshell asked the Board if they think we should do a background check on CHR applicants, since we do one on those applying for a home. We do a credit

check on both CHR and home applicants. Mrs. Stevenson stated that Habitat should be consistent, and if they do a background check on some partners, we should do a background check on all partners. Some members agree that CHR applicants are already in their homes, and Habitat isn’t housing them, so we shouldn’t need to do a background check. The Board agreed that the Family Partnership committee should discuss background checks for CHR applicants and provide the Board with a recommendation. Mrs. Stevenson suggested asking an attorney about this conflict. (Mrs. Howdyshell reviewed partnership application criteria – and found that HFHI legal recommends the same procedure for both partner groups).

• Construction Committee: Per minutes mailed/e-mailed. A CHR partner recommendation was submitted as stated above. The CHR repair was approved by the Board.

• Nominating Committee: There is a partial slate of officers for next year. The slate will be announced at the next meeting, when it is complete. Mrs. Howdyshell named a few people that have been asked to join the board. Sally Dunn and Alan Biskey have consented to join.

• Real Estate: Per minutes mailed/e-mailed. The committee meets tomorrow night and Mr. Frankfort believes there are a number of properties under consideration.

• ReStore Committee: Per minutes mailed/e-mailed. Mr. Frankfort said the committee is working on a shed policy.

• Volunteer Coordination/Community Relations: Per minutes mailed/emailed.


• (Adhoc) Mortgage Portfolio: As discussed under the treasurer’s report.


• Strategic Plan/By-Laws: Mr. Grunder will review SAW Habitat’s by-laws, due to a number of changes. Mr. Grunder told the Board that Lynn Bradley, who is on the Real Estate Committee, has experience with strategic planning and is willing to work on a strategic plan for the affiliate. He asked the Board if Board members are willing to give 3 half-day retreats to strategic planning. If so, a facilitator from Mary Baldwin, along with Mrs. Bradley would help with the sessions. Mr. Grunder said it requires Board cooperation and participation in order for the sessions to be arranged. Members of the Fundraising Board will also be encouraged to attend. Pastor Wilkers agreed to let Habitat use his church for the half-day sessions. Ms Baugher suggested having other groups attend the sessions to let us know what they would like to see from this affiliate. Mr. Grunder suggested that the information collected by Carl Manfield has opinions and suggestions of others in our community that will be useful in developing a plan. The Board discussed what days would be good to have the meetings. Saturday mornings may be a possibility. Board members agree to comply with attending the sessions. They won’t be scheduled until sometime in February, since November through January is a busy time of year and planning will take time. Mrs. Howdyshell stated that she could apply for a grant from HFHI for $95,000 over 3 years if SAW Habitat has a fund development plan and strategic plan in place. Mrs. Stevenson

suggested sending an e-mail to everyone with possible dates and times to see what might work for everyone.

Old Business: Nominations for awards were asked to be submitted. The Volunteer-Donor Recognition Dinner will be in February.

New Business: The health policy for management changed because of the Affordable Care Act. Current management employees will lose their health care coverage reimbursement stipend that pays part of the premium on the health care plans they currently participate in. This was a contractual benefit that was offered on the hire date. It provided for up to $200 a month for full-time exempt and up to $300 a month for the Executive Director. The executive committee recommends that employees who were receiving the reimbursement be given a raise to compensate for the loss. Since it will be converted to salary - and will be taxed, it was recommended that the raise be adjusted up to compensate for taxes. The intent of the action was to make the employees whole. The money has already been budgeted, with the exception of the taxed amount. The Board approved the proposal for the increases at their current rate of reimbursement.

Pastor Wilkers closed the meeting with prayer.

The next Board meeting will be Monday, December 2, 2013 at 6:30 pm.

Upcoming Events:

• The Holiday Health Fair will be held at Booker T. Washington Community Center on Saturday, December 14th from 2-6 pm.

• The Habitat Gala will be held at the Stonewall Jackson Hotel on Saturday, January 25th from 6-11pm.

• The Volunteer/Donor Recognition dinner will be sometime in February.

• The Strategic Plan Retreats will be planned in February.

• The Homeshow is scheduled for March 21st – 24th.

• The Radiothon will be sometime in March.

SAW Habitat for Humanity Board Minutes December 2, 2013

Members of the Board Present: Charlie Frankfort, President; Ted Sabados; Salome Baugher; Rhonda Howdyshell, Executive Director; Pastor Jack Wilkers; Alan Biskey, Minnie Stevenson, Vice-President; Frank Fletcher, Treasurer; Dr. Sue Burkholder; Jim Delong Hendrix and Sally Dunn.

Members Absent: Susan Fisher; Tom Montgomery; Councilman Ophie Kier; Mary Jorgensen; Peggy Reed and Fred Grunder, Secretary.

Mrs. Howdyshell opened the meeting with prayer. Mr. Frankfort introduced Mr. Biskey and members welcomed him to his first Board meeting.


Minutes: The minutes for the November meeting were approved as presented.

President’s Items: Mr. Frankfort said that this is his last Board meeting for a year, since his term is up. The slate of officers for next year was discussed. Mrs. Stevenson will be President; Mr. Fletcher will continue as Treasurer and Mr. Grunder will remain the Secretary. Mrs. Howdyshell and Mr. Frankfort would like Ms Baugher to assume the title of Vice-President, as one is still needed. An at-large Executive Committee member is available as well. Dr. Burkholder said she will take on that position. Mr. Frankfort explained that Board members are also asked to join a committee. Those in attendance approved the new Board members and slate as presented. Current Advisory Board members have agreed to remain on the Advisory Board. Awards for the Volunteer/Donor Recognition Dinner were discussed. Mr. Frankfort nominated Mrs. Howdyshell for the Millard Fuller Award. Members present approved the nomination, which is the highest honor given by SAW Habitat. Mrs. Howdyshell said she would like to honor Habitat families at the recognition dinner who have continued their education, obtained their GED or graduated from High School and College.

Treasurer’s and General Financial Report: The financial reports were distributed and discussed. Mr. Fletcher reported the ReStore pays the affiliate for their part of expenses now on a monthly basis, instead of yearly. The ReStore did very well in October. In-kind donations are now noted on a separate report, since the generosity of others is what helps maintain this organization.

Mortgage Receivables and Critical Home Repairs (CHR’s) were discussed. There are two in-house mortgages and two mortgages with VHDA that are more than 90 days behind. One is in the foreclosure process. Mr. Frankfort explained how Habitat tries to work with our homeowners to help them when they are in difficult circumstances. There are also a few homeowners who are not making payments for their CHR’s. We have promissory notes for repairs that are over $3,000. A lien can be placed on the home in case of default.

Financial Resource Board: Invitations for the January gala are being processed and will be mailed this week. Silent auction items and sponsors are being sought. Mrs. Howdyshell completed a grant request to Coca-Cola to be a gold sponsor for $2,500. Gala tickets are being sold online, by phone and by mail. A $25 discount for 2 tickets is valid until December 15th. The next meeting will be in the conference room at SAW Habitat on Tuesday, December 17th at noon. Mr. Manfield will be speaking on the subject of prospect record keeping.

Executive Director’s Items: Mrs. Howdyshell reminded the Board of the Strategic Planning retreats. They will be at the Third Presbyterian Church on February 6th, 13th & 27th from 5 – 9 pm. Mrs. Howdyshell discussed a capacity grant that she would like apply for to hire a new staff position. This individual would help with fundraising, updating the website, community engagement, events, marketing, etc. A strategic plan must be in place before we could receive the grant. The application deadline is in December, so we won’t be able to obtain it this year, but we could consider it while working on the strategic plan. We may possibly obtain the grant next year, but one of the requirements is that an affiliate has to have built a house for three years in a row. Mrs. Howdyshell will try to get the CHR projects to qualify as a build for this year.

Committee Reports:

• Family Partnership: Per minutes mailed/e-mailed. New income guidelines and the acceptance of a home applicant are being recommended from the committee. Mrs. Howdyshell stated that HFHI would prefer our materials to reflect a target range of income guidelines. Our current brochures illustrate that income levels up to 80% of HUD area median would qualify for our program. This was to reflect USDA’s income qualifications and HFHI’s top guidelines. HFHI would rather our information show wage levels up to 60% of area median. Most grants would like non-profits to serve people whose earnings don’t exceed 60%. Our affiliate will still evaluate each applicant’s income individually - according to family size, ability to pay, and if they would qualify for a USDA loan. Mrs. Howdyshell stated that the CAPSAW grant requires us to push filing for child support (if relevant). We are also asking about health insurance and adding that fee or monthly payment (if applicable) in their budget. A single mother with one son was recommended for partnership. Her housing ratio is 54%. Mr. Sabados relayed information about the applicant. Board members present approved both recommendations.


• Nominating Committee: As discussed under President’s items.

Real Estate: Per minutes mailed/e-mailed. The purchase a property in Stuarts Draft (Augusta County) for no more than $12,500 is being recommended from this committee. Mrs. Stevenson furnished the details of the land. It would be a nice lot to build a home on. Mrs. Howdyshell informed the Board that a postcard was mailed to all area real estate agents letting them know SAW needs property in the county so our partners may be able to receive USDA loans. SAW Habitat would like to partner with USDA to receive the funds for building the home right away, so we are able to build more homes. USDA would also be the lender, so Habitat wouldn’t have to handle the mortgage payments and escrow accounts. Those in attendance approved the recommendation. Mr. Frankfort conveyed that he and Mrs. Godfrey went to the auction of a house last month. (The Board had authorized (by e-mail) the committee to pursue a short sale or to bid on the house at the auction for up to $75,000, which would need to come from reserves, since it would be over the Real Estate’s budget). It sold for $158,267.


• Volunteer Coordination/Community Relations: Per minutes mailed/emailed. Mr. Frankfort enlightened the Board with details of the Holiday Health Fair that will take place at the Booker T Community Center. The next meeting will be Thursday, December 12th at 1pm. A toy wrapping party for the fair will commence at 1:30pm (after the committees’ meeting) in the Habitat conference room.


• (Adhoc) Mortgage Portfolio: As discussed under the treasurer’s report.


• Strategic Plan/By-Laws: As discussed under Executive Director’s Items.

Old Business:

New Business: A holiday “bonus” gift for employees was discussed. Last year, the paid employees received the disbursement. This year, the Executive Committee recommends the Goodwill workers and regular volunteers obtain a contribution as well. Paid staff would receive $250, Goodwill employees would collect a $50 check and other volunteers at the Christmas party would get $20 cash. This has not been in the budget the last few years. Ms Baugher recommended the holiday money be included in the budget if it will be given every year. Board members present approved the bonuses.

Ms Baugher suggested if the Board meeting would fall on the Monday after Thanksgiving, that it be moved to Tuesday, due to the Staunton Christmas Parade which is on the Monday after Thanksgiving. Members in attendance agreed.

Pastor Wilkers closed the meeting with prayer.

The next Board meeting will be Monday, January 6, 2014 at 6:30 pm.

Mrs. Howdyshell will e-mail absent members for their votes on all issues as needed.

Upcoming Events:

• Holiday Health Fair – Saturday, December 14th from 2-6pm in Staunton at the Booker T Community Center.

• Habitat Christmas party/potluck – Monday, December 23rd from 11:30-1:30.

• The Habitat Gala will be held at the Stonewall Jackson Hotel on Saturday, January 25th from 6-11pm.

• The Volunteer/Donor Recognition dinner will be Sunday, February 16th from 1:30 – 3:00 pm at Tinkling Spring Presbyterian Church in Fishersville.

• The Strategic Plan Retreats will be February 6th, 13th & 27th from 5 – 9 pm at the Third Presbyterian Church.

• The Homeshow is scheduled for March 21st – 24th 2014 at Augusta Expo in Fishersville.

• The Radiothon will be sometime in March. Jack Wilkers and Tom Montgomery host the event.

Board of Directors Electronic Vote in addendum to May 6, 2013

RE: CHR Family #151W

This is a recording of the electronic / mail vote by the Board of Directors as of May 28, 2013.

(x-vote recorded after May 28, 2013)

2013 BOARD OF DIRECTORS – ON ACCEPTING FAMILY 151 AS PARTER for Critical Home Repair.

YES

NO

NO VOTE

Charles Frankfort, President X

Minnie Stevenson, Vice President X

Frank Fletcher, Treasurer X Fred Grunder, Secretary X

Rev. Jack Wilkers, at large X

Salome Baugher X

Sue Burkholder X Susan Fisher X

Jim Hendrix x

Mary Jorgensen X

Ophie Kier -

Tom Montgomery X

Peggy Reed x

Ted Sabados X

14 MEMBERS 13 0 1

Board of Directors POLLING to achieve quorum for June 3, 2013 Board actions:

1) Tithe Designation for FY 2013 ($5,500) to be split for these high priority countries:

Bangladesh, Ethiopia, and Malawi. (1st Salome Baugher, 2nd Jim Hendrix)

2) Mortgage foreclosure action letter from our Lawyer to be sent to T. Calloway (1st Jim Hendrix, 2nd Susan Fisher)

3) Special Event Approval of Cornhole Torunament hosted by Frontier Community Bank September 12, 2013. (1st Salome Baugher, 2nd Jim Hendrix)

4) Change of By-laws regarding Audit Committee. Recommended by Audit committee that the wording in the by-laws be changed from – “The Committee will meet quarterly,” to: “The committee will meet twice a year.” APPROVED AS NOTED BELOW.

1, 2, 3, and 4 above were approved by those with the X at the meeting, with the x by poll.

YES

NO

No vote

Charles Frankfort, President X

Minnie Stevenson, Vice President X

Frank Fletcher, Treasurer X Fred Grunder, Secretary x

Rev. Jack Wilkers, at large x

Salome Baugher X

Sue Burkholder x Susan Fisher X

Jim Hendrix X

Mary Jorgensen x

Ophie Kier x

Tom Montgomery x

Peggy Reed x

Ted Sabados X

14 Members 8 0 6

Documents

SAW Habitat for Humanity Board Minutes January 7, 2013€¦ · Montgomery; Fred Grunder, Secretary; Salome Baugher and Pastor Jack Wilkers. Mr. Sabados opened the meeting with prayer