2025 Annual Report

A note from our CEO

This year, we celebrate a remarkable milestone: 40 years of building homes, communities, and hope in Allen, Huntington, and Wells counties.

As I step into my role as CEO, I do so with deep gratitude and humility. Over the past five months, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the incredible impact this organization has made under the leadership of those who came before me. Their vision, dedication, and faith have created a strong foundation that has transformed the lives of hundreds of families and strengthened our community.

Over the past four decades, every Habitat home built represents a family we’ve walked alongside and supported as they realized their dream of homeownership. Families who once sought a safe, stable place to live are now achieving educational goals, advancing careers, and creating brighter paths for their children. That is the true power of affordable homeownership.

As we honor our past, we are equally focused on the future. The need for affordable homeownership in our community remains great, and unfortunately continues to grow. Every month, families reach out to us seeking the same opportunity that so many before them have received: the chance to build a better life. Meeting that need will require us to think boldly, act strategically, and work together in new and meaningful ways.

I am incredibly excited to lead Habitat for Humanity of Greater Fort Wayne into this next chapter. My faith has always inspired me to serve others, and I’m honored to work alongside our dedicated staff, volunteers, Future Homeowners, and community partners to continue transforming lives and neighborhoods.

Thank you for being part of this journey. Thank you for what you have helped build, and for what we will build together as we head into the next 40 years.

Melissa McKown, Habitat GFW CEO