Erika Bailey
President
about erika
Erika Bailey, a Wabash County resident and the Branch Manager for First Farmers Bank & Trust in Huntington and Wabash, brings her extensive knowledge and experience in financial services as Board President.
With a genuine desire to serve others, Erika has not only volunteered with organizations like Junior Achievement and local food banks but also believes in the transformative impact that Habitat's work has on both Habitat families and the entire community.
Heather Cruz
Board member
about heather
Hi, I’m Heather! I was born and raised in North Manchester and proudly graduated as a Squire before heading to Manchester University. After spending 10 years in Indianapolis in leadership and marketing roles, fate brought me back home, where I fell in love with North Manchester all over again. Now, I’m thrilled to serve as the Executive Director of Manchester Alive, our community’s chamber of commerce and Main Street organization.
My passion for uplifting our community has led me to get involved in several organizations. I serve as secretary on the board of Daniel’s Place, and I’m also active in my church, Laketon Wesleyan, where I lead Kids’ Klub each week.
My husband, Justin, and I live in rural North Manchester with our four children, dogs, chickens, and more barn cats than I care to admit. I love gardening, landscaping, and spending time with the people I care about. I’m excited to bring my passion for helping others to my role with Wabash County Habitat!
Troy Galbriath
Treasurer
about troy
Troy brings 30 years of experience in providing financial solutions to his clients, including the past decade with First Merchants Bank. Serving as Vice President and Commercial Relationship Manager for Koskiusko, Noble, Wabash, and Whitley counties, Troy's expertise shines through.
Holding a bachelor's degree in Finance from Ball State University, he demonstrates a strong educational foundation.
Recently, Troy and his wife Connie relocated back to Kosciusko county from Indianapolis, reaffirming their commitment to the community.
Carrie Mugford
Board member
about carrie
Hi, I’m Carrie Mugford! I’m a lifelong resident of Wabash County and a proud Manchester Squire. I’ve worked for the Town of North Manchester since 2001 and have had the honor of serving as the elected clerk-treasurer since 2007. In 2023, I was thrilled to receive the AIM Financial Management Award.
I’m passionate about giving back to my community, and I serve on several boards across the state focused on municipal government. One of my favorite activities is volunteering for Junior Achievement, where I get to teach financial education to elementary students.
My husband, John, and I have raised two sons in North Manchester. My belief in the power of financial education and my dedication to bettering Wabash County led me to join the Wabash County Habitat for Humanity board. I’m excited to contribute to this important cause!
Dan Early
Vice President
about dan
A lifetime resident of Wabash County, Dan has dedicated over 15 years of his life to serving Wabash County Habitat for Humanity as both a volunteer and a board member.
Witnessing the positive impact that affordable homes can have on families, Dan believes that building alongside future homeowners, volunteers, and community members is a truly rewarding experience.
We are proud to have Dan's passion and dedication as we work towards our mission of building homes and changing lives.
Alex Downard
Board member
Alex Downard, a native of Indianapolis, moved to Wabash County, Indiana to pursue his college education at Manchester University. There, he studied Business and Political Science and actively engaged with the community through various internships and leadership roles.
Alex currently heads his own company, Downard Development Strategies, which focuses on business development and public affairs. He also leads the implementation efforts of the Imagine One 85 strategic plan in Wabash County, addressing crucial areas such as housing, workforce development, education, rural broadband, and quality of life.
Additionally, Alex chairs the Board of Directors for Manchester Alive, his local Chamber of Commerce & Main Street organization. Recently recognized with the Manchester University Young Alumni Impact Award, Alex is committed to improving Wabash County and Northeast Indiana on a national scale.
In his leisure time, he enjoys cooking, country music, and spending time with his nephew, Jax.
Justin Gillespie
Board member
about justin
As a proud Northfield High School, and Manchester University graduate, Justin is leaving an enduring a mark on Lagro. In just two years of work, the hobbyist developer transformed his small stretch of Washington Street, from remodeling a mid-1800’s Riparian home, to renovating 950 Speakeasy Bistro.
Both the 950 Speakeasy Bistro and Riparian House feature upcycled materials including refinished barn siding, outdoor fencing, thrifted vintage items and handmade furniture. Both locations contribute to the preservation and beautification of the community of Lagro.
Justin has been contributing to the success of Ford Meter Box since 2005.
Jana Thibos
Secretary
about jana
Jana lives in Wabash County and is the Investor Services and Event Project Manager at Grow Wabash County.
Passionate about community connection, she actively volunteers with various organizations including the Young Professionals of Wabash County Board, the Wabash Kiwanis Club, Blessings in a Backpack, and the Wabash Valley Dance Theater.
Jana brings a fresh perspective and serves as a strong advocate for Wabash County Habitat for Humanity. Her enthusiasm to contribute to this remarkable organization is unmatched.
Andy Eckert
Board member
about andy
I was born and raised in Huntington, Indiana as one of eight children. My wife Stephanie Ness and I have three children: Olivia, Sebastian, and Aleah. Sebastian, and his wife Brook, have given us two adorable grandchildren named Rylee and River.
Currently, I work as a Realtor -Auctioneer with Ness Bros. in Huntington. I have over 20 years in the Tool and Die field.
I have served on the Huntington Habitat Board and the Big Brother and Big Sister Huntington board. I am a lifetime member of SS Peter and Pauls parish in Huntington.
Outside of work and volunteering, I enjoy hunting, golfing, and managing my farm.
Todd Hodson
Board member
about todd
Todd, a dedicated resident of Wabash County, brings his extensive expertise in marketing and advertising to his role as the Marketing and Advertising Manager at The Ford Meter Box Company, Inc.
With a passionate commitment to serving the community, Todd actively contributes as a member of the Board of Directors for the YMCA and has successfully participated in numerous fulfilling Habitat builds.
Eager to continue making a positive impact in Wabash County, Todd is thrilled to be a part of the Habitat team.
Ben Vanderpool
Board member
about ben
Ben, a lifelong resident of Wabash County, was born and raised in the area and graduated from Northfield High School in 2003. He currently resides in North Manchester with his wife and three boys.
As the Judge of the Wabash Superior Court, Ben takes pride in serving the community.
With previous experience as a board member for the Kosciusko County Habitat for Humanity, he is eager to continue giving back to the community of Wabash through the Habitat Board.
Becky Arnett
Executive Director
Becky brings a unique perspective to her role. Having built her own Habitat home in Huntington in 2010, she understands the importance of a safe and affordable home. With a Master's degree in Organizational Leadership, Becky's academic achievements and personal experience make her an invaluable asset. Passionate about Habitat's mission, she works diligently with community partners to bridge the gap in affordable housing.
As a devoted mother and grandmother, Becky cherishes her role, and Sadie, her delightful office dog, has become a cherished member of our WCHFH family.
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