Team Members
Meet the Team, and Read their Why
National Director
Portfolio Project Manager
Technical Architect
Legal Assistant
Affiliate Success Representative
Hero Success Representative
Account Executive
Account Executive Assistant
Transaction Processing Specialist
HSR Team Lead
BI Analyst
Foundation Director
Controller
Hero Experience Manager
Social Media Specialist
Hero Success Representative
AR/AP Specialist
Affiliate Success Representative
Senior Content Marketing Specialist
Marketing Specialist
Legal Director
Senior Email Marketing Specialist
Chief Operating Officer
Cybersecurity Analyst
VP & HR Director
Account Executive
CFO
CEO/President
Affiliate Success Director
Affiliate Success Representative
Senior Growth Marketing Specialist
Director of Affiliate Memberships
Account Executive
Omnichannel Manager
Senior Project Manager
Senior Marketing Manager
Lead Developer
Hero Rewards Coordinator
National Director
Abby Waltz
I wouldn’t be here today if it wasn’t for the first responders that saved my life in a horrific car accident as a teenager. Now, it is my mission to be a strong positive force in the world. To inspire others to live life to the fullest by helping them realize their true purpose (their WHY) and full potential. I fulfill that mission through my commitment to saying Thank You to every hero for their selflessness, compassion and courage they display and inspiring others to do the same. I would not have the opportunity to live the life I live without our heroes continued commitment to serve and better our communities each and every day and for that I am incredibly grateful. From the bottom of my heart, THANK YOU to each and every hero, for all you do.
Portfolio Project Manager
Karen Battist
I have the highest respect and admiration for those who serve in the armed forces, first responders, health care professionals, and teachers. My Mom was a teacher for 30 years and my cousin was a firefighter in NYC during 9/11. I am honored and blessed to be working with Homes for Heroes to give back to those that give so much everyday.
Technical Architect
Jeff Bullert
I am proud to work at Homes for Heroes because it lets me give back to those who have helped me and my family. Without our local police, EMS and healthcare workers my mom wouldn’t be here today. She has lived with some serious medical conditions since she was a kid and wasn’t supposed to make it past 20 years old and she is now in her mid 60’s. This is why I choose to give back and Thank those who are out there every day saving someone’s family member.
Legal Assistant
Amy Butler
I’m proud to be a part of the Homes for Heroes family to support the selfless heroes who dedicate themselves to their communities every day.
Affiliate Success Representative
Heather Campbell
I couldn’t be prouder to work for Homes for Heroes! Being able to give back and serve others is not only something I strongly value but I actually get to do every day through my career, for that I am truly blessed. I have many family members who are my heroes; everyone from my mother being a special education teacher for over 35 years, my sister a pediatric speech pathologist, my brother a school district psychologist, to my beautiful daughter being a military child. It’s incredible how much they give! I know many of us can say this, the service members in my life have done so much for me personally and they deserve to be thanked every day for what they do, who they are and what they represent.
Hero Success Representative
Lacey Darnell
I have a deep-rooted passion for helping others in difficult times. Everyone comes to hurdles in life, rather than see it as a hindrance, we can use it as an opportunity to help and bless others and fulfill our own purpose.
My early years were centered on assisting an elderly veteran grandfather who made the additional sacrifice to become my surrogate father. I have had an adoptive heart since and look for ways to be there for everyone that I can. He gave me a childhood I could not have come up with in my dreams. I was blessed beyond measure and had done little to deserve it. He has been a hero in my life, along with so many others who sacrificed to ensure I and others were safe and cared for.
My previous experience with geriatric clients also allowed me to see the love behind their actions, and that I could in return serve them. Finding a company that allowed me to use my talents to help others was vital to me. People matter and helping one another is what life is all about. I chose Homes for Heroes because they put serving others first. We all make sacrifices to care for and support others, my sacrifice is to be there for these heroes in return.
Account Executive
Holly Derrick
I am thrilled to be part of this team; I’m dedicated to making a compassionate impact. My global travels as a flight attendant cultivated a deep appreciation for the essence of home. Aligned with Home for Heroes’ mission, I’m committed to ensuring our community heroes find the comfort and recognition they deserve in their own home. With Homes for Heroes, I’ve found a purposeful career and a way to say thank you!
Account Executive Assistant
Erlinda Machuca
As a proud military spouse and dedicated member of my community, I bring a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to service to everything I do. My journey began alongside my husband, a retired Army veteran of 21 years, whose dedication to duty has inspired me every step of the way.
In addition to supporting my husband’s military career, I have nurtured a family dynamic deeply rooted in service. One of my stepsons follows in his father’s footsteps, serving in the Army, while my stepdaughter has chosen a path of compassion as a nurse.
For over 25 years, I have contributed to the education system, working diligently within the school district. Ten years ago, prior to meeting my husband, I had the opportunity to secure a Habitat for Humanity home, a milestone that underscored the importance of stable housing and community support in my life.
Driven by a desire to continue serving those who have sacrificed for others, I encountered Homes for Heroes during the process of purchasing a new home with my husband. Recognizing the alignment of my values with the organization’s mission, I seized the opportunity to join their team. I am profoundly grateful and blessed to be able to contribute to such a noble cause, leveraging my skills and experiences to make a meaningful difference in the lives of our heroes and communities.
Transaction Processing Specialist
Cassidy Madsen
I am forever grateful for those who put their lives on the line to give us freedom and safety, just as many of my family members have. We should thank our veterans every day, not only on Veterans Day. Also, we need to thank our everyday heroes; those who work in the medical field, law enforcement, first responders, fire fighters, and teachers. I am extremely fortunate to be able to work with a company that makes a difference in the lives of our heroes every day.
HSR Team Lead
Genna Sallack
My father, Navy, and my husband, Army, both served their time diligently with our armed forces during active war. along with my training in the medical field as a Paramedic. The deep appreciation I have for our armed forces and other heroic professions led me to this company. A company that listens to the needs of others, makes our heroes a priority, and gives back to the community is what makes this a fulfilling career. Giving back and serving others is a strong value, rooted deep within and I am thankful to be a part of something that does just that. For all those who sacrifice, I am grateful to serve.
BI Analyst
Chase Schaffter
I am very honored to be working for a company that cares so much about our nation’s heroes. I have several members of my family that have served in the military and I am very grateful to each service member. Also, I am very thankful to all of the heroic first responders, healthcare workers, and everyone dedicated to the education systems.
Since college I have worked in IT, Business Intelligence, and Data Analytics.
I plan to use my technical experience and skills to further Homes for Heroes company’s mission.
Together as a team, we will thank every hero in the nation!
Foundation Director
Jay Flynn
James “Jay” Flynn, Chief of the Denver Fire Department, started his fire service career in 1992 as a volunteer firefighter at the Ore Bank-Pumpkin Center Fire Department. In 2003, he transitioned to the career fire service with Denver Fire Department in Denver, North Carolina. Jay has spent the last 16 years serving the Denver community as a firefighter, captain, and fire chief.
Chief Flynn has an associate’s degree in Fire Protection Management from the Cleveland Community College. He also has completed the Fire & Rescue Management Institute and Public Management Academy from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. He has attended many courses at the National Fire Academy and through the North Carolina Fire & Rescue Commission.
Chief Flynn is well respected among the firefighters, Lincoln County government and the region for his professionalism and his ability to build strong relationships. During his time as Fire Chief, Chief Flynn has served as the President of the Lincoln County Fire-Rescue Association, as a member of Lincoln County Emergency Planning Committee and the Lincoln County Emergency Services Committee. Additionally, Chief Flynn is a member of several professional organizations including the North Carolina Association of Fire Chiefs as well as the International Association of Fire Chiefs.
Controller
Jessie Henry
Finance has always been my passion when it comes to the type of work I enjoy. The problem with working in this area of business is that is hard to feel as if you are really contributing. At Homes for Heroes I have the opportunity to work with the best group of individuals, doing what I love, all while supporting Heroes in communities around America get rewarded for their service.
Hero Experience Manager
Audrey Sykowski-Brisiel
I’ve dedicated over a decade to the Healthcare field, deeply valuing the unwavering commitment and tireless effort healthcare professionals invest in their communities. My family history, with my grandfather serving as a medic in WW2 and my cousin’s dual roles in the Secret Service and as a Marine, instilled in me a profound sense of pride and admiration for those who serve. I’ve long aspired to align myself with a company devoted to supporting our heroes. Joining a company that actively contributes to the well-being of these remarkable individuals is an immense privilege and fulfillment of a personal goal.
Social Media Specialist
Talia Johnson
I am driven by mission-centric work and am thrilled to be able to make an impact with the very heroes who change our lives every day. As a social media marketer and story-teller, I know I am in the right place when I get to help serve others by combining my skills and passions to accomplish incredible goals alongside an amazing team.
Hero Success Representative
Joanna Mora Avila
My first job in a hospital kitchen office allowed me to provide care not only through meals but also by offering support to both patients and the entire healthcare staff.
I chose Home for Heroes because of my unwavering dedication to serving others and my passion to make a strong impact. Spreading kindness remains at the core of who I am, and this organization gives me an opportunity to give back to the heroes who give their all everyday.
AR/AP Specialist
Kathy Yang
The opportunity to work at Homes for Heroes allows me to serve and impact the lives of heroes. I would not be able to enjoy the life I live, if it wasn’t for the heroes. When I was born, I weighed only 2lbs and was hospitalized for 4 months. Everyday, I am reminded to be THANKFUL because there is a hero out there serving, saving lives and keeping our country safe.
Affiliate Success Representative
Leslie Huckaby
I am excited to work for Homes for Heroes and be a part of a team that is united with a common goal. To be able to assist in the process of helping Heroes, show them the respect and appreciation they deserve is extremely rewarding. A letter to my father dated 11/29/1945 from The Secretary of the Navy, James Forrestal says “I want the Navy’s pride in you, which it is my privilege to express, to reach into your civil life and remain with you always.” The sacrifices and courage heroes show in service and after, inspire me to do my best to help and support them in any way possible. This platform will allow me to utilize the skills I have learned in Real Estate the past 20 years to maximize the positive impact we can have on the community of Heroes nationwide.
Senior Content Marketing Specialist
Luke Feldbrugge
Back in 2012 I was laid off. During this time I realized I was chasing the wrong things professionally, so I chose to only pursue work where I could positively impact the lives of others. No exceptions. Looking back it made sense. When I was 3, I wanted to be a fireman. When I was 17, I seriously considered serving in the Army (but I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes). My first declared college major was education and I wanted to be a teacher/coach. Serving others was clearly important to me, but how could I do it professionally? Enter Homes for Heroes.
I realized I will spend roughly 20-25% of my life working. It became important for me to feel like that time spent is having a positive impact not only in the success of my employer, but also in the lives of their customers. And at Homes for Heroes, my work is an every day opportunity to positively impact the lives of those who chose to serve the rest of us.
Marketing Specialist
Mackenzie Bintner
Helping others is in my nature and it is a part of who I am. Working at Homes for Heroes provides me an opportunity to make a difference in someones life everyday. Serving those who serve our community is rewarding and it continues to open my heart and mind to how I can learn, grow and improve everyday.
Legal Director
Maggie Farley
I am grateful to work for an organization that has a common mission of serving the heroes that take care of our communities. From the teachers that inspire us, to the members of our military that defend our freedom, we have so many reasons to be grateful for these selfless individuals. The path to homeownership can be stressful, and having the opportunity to provide a service that helps to alleviate some of that burden for our heroes is what excites me about my job.
Senior Email Marketing Specialist
Maggie Looker
I have several family members who are heroes, including my dad who was a teacher. I am lucky enough to know these heroes and the unique challenges they face daily. Being able to help those who least expect it, but certainly deserve it, makes me proud to be a part of this team and thank every hero in the nation. It is the least we can do to thank them for everything they have done for us. As part of the marketing team, I not only get to do a job that I love, but I also get to spread the word about Homes for Heroes so that every hero has a chance to achieve their dream of homeownership.
Chief Operating Officer
Rebecca Martin
I believe that everyone deserves a place to call home where they can retreat, relax, and refresh. A home is even more meaningful when you own it! Working for Homes for Heroes has allowed me to combine my passion for homeownership with thanking and giving back to the heroes who are the backbone of our nation. Our nation’s heroes work tirelessly every day to serve others and being able to thank them with rewards when they buy and sell their homes provides me with tremendous pride. After these heroes spend a day in service to others, I like to think of them returning to their own home to recharge.
“The ache for home lives in all of us, the safe place where we can go as we are and not be questioned.”
~Maya Angelou
Cybersecurity Analyst
Aidan Mlenar
Working at Homes for Heroes is more than just a job. It is contributing to a culture where giving back is in our DNA. At Homes for Heroes I get to exercise my passion for Cybersecurity while also serving those who have dedicated their lives to helping others. Knowing that I contribute to a service that has helped so many of our heroes is both a personal and professional honor.
VP & HR Director
Kacy Mlenar
I’ve been blessed, yet spoiled to be born on U.S. soil. It wasn’t until I got older and traveled abroad did I come to the realization that not everyone had the opportunities and the freedom that I had. It gave me a profound appreciation for those that fight for our freedom and opportunity that I unknowingly had taken for granted. Then after seeing the events of 911, my family and I started the Homes for Heroes program to say “thank you” to all who serve our nation and its communities. Creating this program made me feel like I was part of the recovery efforts by coming together and strengthening our communities.
Account Executive
Ron Dove
There is nothing more satisfying to me than helping people. After being an Affiliated Lender with Homes For Heroes for close to three years I feel very blessed to work with this amazing company and wonderful people. Who better to help than those who help so many others? These professionals are selfless and deserve to be recognized in a special way. HFH does an excellent job of doing so.
I reside in a small rural town in Southern Arizona called Vail with my soulmate of 27 years, our two horses and three Standard Poodles.
CFO
Robert J. Specht
Bob has had the pleasure of advising HFH since the early formation years and continues to provide financial expertise to the HFH team, drawing from an extensive career in varied financial leadership positions. He currently is the VP Finance for AWireless, a billion retailer of wireless services. He has leadership experience in the retail, software and hospitality industries, with both public and private companies, including high growth start-up ventures and private-equity backed investments. He enjoys the entrepreneurial environment and what the HFH team has accomplished thus far.
During Bob’s 12-year tenure at Gander Mountain Company he was an integral part of the leadership team that grew this IPO-company to over $1.3 billion in sales with profitability. Bob began his career in public accounting and enjoyed 6 years in public accounting with D&T and PWC.
He is a certified public accountant and holds an MBA in Finance from the University of Minnesota.
CEO/President
Ruth Johnson
Our family started the Homes for Heroes program to say “thank you” to all who serve our nation and its communities. Those who show up, every day, to help make our communities better and safer places to live. The strength of our nation depends on the strength of our communities. The strength of our communities often falls on the backs of those who serve. Our WHY centers around the tragic events of 9/11/2001 and the many heroes involved in the rescue and recovery efforts.Those whose service often goes unnoticed until we need them. Our ‘rally cry’ is: Together a team, we will thank every hero in the nation. It is so rewarding to know that we are making progress on our goal and a difference in the lives of the heroes we serve.
Affiliate Success Director
Vicki Czech
I work at Homes for Heroes so I can be a part of something impactful and hopefully help make a difference in someone’s life. Heroes are a big part of my family and being given the opportunity to honor them and what they do is rewarding everyday!
Affiliate Success Representative
Janelle Flay
I have always been inspired by the heroes in my life, from my mother, who dedicated herself to shaping minds as a teacher, to my grandfather, who was a member of the Air Force. As a veteran myself, I carry so much appreciation for the sacrifices and service of individuals like them. Joining Homes for Heroes isn’t just about a job; it’s about aligning with a company that shares my values and actively supports those who have selflessly served their communities and country.
Senior Growth Marketing Specialist
Seth Jeska
My career at Homes for Heroes happened through a very indirect and unexpected path. While pursuing my degree in entrepreneurship at the University of St. Thomas, I discovered my passion for business analysis and consulting. My professional goal was to carve out a successful career in management consulting. That professional goal changed after a summer with Homes for Heroes. After working with this company for three short months, my perspective on what defines my success changed. I realized that I could have a far more successful career by applying my skills and knowledge to help grow a national program and make sure every hero that serves their community receives the recognition they deserve. Equally as important, my career at Homes for Heroes is my way of honoring the work my mother dedicated to her community as a teacher, and my grandfather’s service to this country as a WWII Navy veteran.
Director of Affiliate Memberships
Sandra Kramer
I have been in a sales role most of my life and I was attracted to Homes for Heroes to provide more meaning to what I do. I not only get to consult with real estate agents and lenders who are considering our program, I know that by bringing in the right people more heroes will be honored and rewarded. I am especially grateful this program includes teachers. It was my 9th grade teacher who pulled me aside one day because he noticed I was not myself. His interest in me changed my life and helped me to get through a tough time in my family. I will never forget his kindness and concern.
Account Executive
Jamie Rubio
I am a proud military brat turned advocate for heroes, now working with Homes for Heroes to support our nation’s Heroes. Committed to providing them with the homes they deserve, blending personal experience with a passion for service. I live in Chicago with my husband, we have 6 children, 5 grandchildren and 2 dogs.
Omnichannel Manager
Jesse Salomon
I have always felt a very deep appreciation for the men and women who serve others. I have members of my family that have served in various capacities. This has given me the healthy respect for what these folks do. I am honored to be able to do my part to thank these individuals.
Senior Project Manager
Rovshan Safarov
I joined the Homes for Heroes team in 2021 to be a part of this incredible initiative helping those who are on the front line to make our lives safe. Having IT project management background enables me to participate in great programs supporting Heroes in our communities across the country.
Senior Marketing Manager
Jill Woods
A deep love for learning instilled by dedicated educators has been a driving force in my life. This passion has shaped my personal and professional path and has influenced my values. Discovering Homes for Heroes felt like an ‘aha’ moment – an organization that not only aligns with my principles but genuinely acknowledges the heroes shaping our communities.
Making a meaningful impact and giving back to those who care for our society is a privilege. As a parent, I aspire to model the importance of giving back to my children. I hope to instill in them the values of compassion, empathy, and the joy that comes from making a positive difference in the lives of those around us.
Lead Developer
Sai Yang
I would have probably been one of those faces you see on the news. I was born in a refugee camp. I have heard the sad stories that war produces. However, today there’s breath in lungs and a beat in my heart. Today, I have the opportunity to give back and say, “Thank you. I am here because you gave. God bless you!”
Hero Rewards Coordinator
Emmy Young
My mom was in the healthcare field, and she gave her life in the line of duty. Inspired by her, a great deal of my adult life was dedicated to medicine. One thing I learned from my own experiences and from my family in military, education, first responders, and law enforcement- the ones that serve us rarely see themselves as heroes. Thinking back to my time in the hospital, I don’t remember feeling like a hero. I remember the exhaustion, the sadness for those suffering, and the fear that I would not be good enough, smart enough, or fast enough to help. When my life situation changed and I could no longer practice medicine, I still felt the drive to make the world around me a better place. My job as the Hero Reward Coordinator at Homes for Heroes allows me the privilege of thanking our heroes. In a small way, I hope to support their efforts and to brighten their day, if even for a moment.
