Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
Morris Habitat for Humanity is committed to creating and fostering an organization and culture that values diversity, equity and inclusion for all of our employees, community partners, volunteers and homeowners. We seek to provide decent, affordable housing for all. We recognize historical and current barriers including race, ethnicity, gender, religion, social class and citizenship. We will work to break down these hurdles in order to bring equity, fairness and access to all that we serve.
A History of Inclusivity
In 1976, Millard and Linda Fuller were inspired to start a grassroots housing organization after becoming members of Koinonia Farm in Americus, Georgia. Koinonia was considered a radical and controversial organization for its inclusivity. It was a place where blacks and whites lived, worked, and prayed together as equals. Clarence Jordan and other founding members of Koinonia saw it as a ‘demonstration plot for the Kingdom of God.’ Unfortunately, others saw it as a threat to their way of life and often brought violence to the farm. The principles from Koinonia Farm, along with the dream that everyone has a safe, decent, affordable place to live, morphed into Habitat for Humanity International as we know it today.
In this tradition, Morris Habitat seeks to serve as a space where people of all races, faiths, and backgrounds come together to unite in a common cause – affordable housing for all.
DIVERSITY
Representing, valuing and celebrating the differences in those we work with and those we serve in our community and around the world.
EQUITY
Creating opportunities for those who historically have had less access, regardless of their background.
INCLUSION
Committing to supporting, welcoming, respecting and valuing all individuals and groups – including among our workforce and those we serve.
If you would like more information about Morris Habitat’s commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion please feel free to contact members of our DE&I Committee:
Marsha Merola-Salmon, Co-Chair
MaryLou Panzano, Co-Chair
Liz DeCoursey
Ned Levine
Darleen Nelson
Mark Odenwelder
Blair Schleicher Wilson
Front row (left to right) Michael Trueba Jr., Donna Brightman, Jasmine Lim, Donna Hughes, Jessica Esteves, and Marsha Merola-Salmon
Not pictured: Alan Archuleta, Tara French, Rahul Gupta, Erica Scott, Michael Scott, Thomas Vitiello and Rev. Dr. Sidney S. Williams Jr.