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Executive Director Erika Zimmerman got started with Habitat for Humanity working as a volunteer. Zimmerman first served on the organization’s governing Board and Executive Committee before her appointment in 2015. Previously, she earned a degree in Social Work from the University of Kansas and did grant wring for the Boys and Girls club. Habitat is a non-profit organization dedicated to helping families build and improve homes, maintaining that affordable housing plays a critical role in building strong and stable communities. Habitat provides support and oversight for the entire process of financing and building a home. The organization requires applicants to meet income criteria, do volunteering and attend home owner education workshops. Habitat becomes the interest free mortgage lender, however, some loans are sold to the USDA. Aging in place is a program designed to help keep seniors in their homes. Home preservation, including mobile homes, is also a high priority. Habitat relies on many volunteers, partners and donations. The Habitat Restore at 27th and Iowa takes donations of new and gently used home improvement items for resale. Habitat also plays an advocacy role for affordable housing.