Board Spotlight: Denny Frehsee
Denny Frehsee has served as chair of the board since May of 2019 but has been involved in the organization’s work since the early 90’s. “I’ve been involved in just about every building the organization owns.” He reflects, proudly. His interaction started as a professional consultant with the architectural firm he worked with. Following his retirement, Connie Snow asked him to serve on the board and he’s greatly enjoyed continuing his advisory role on new projects. “I enjoy the process, I have a great passion for the buildings, the architecture. Beyond that, though, we’re doing good, important work in the community. The Housing Trust has set a high bar in quality and I feel lucky to be associated with that.”
This extraordinary year has held many challenges. Denny reflects on the important role the Executive Committee played, navigating first the initial COVID response then pursuing the Chalet project. “With the tight timeline, we worked through a process which usually takes a year or more in just a few months. Communication between the Committee and Elizabeth has been very strong- we’re all working outside our comfort zone.”
Thankfully, outside of his role on the board, Denny has strong socially distanced activities of managing his farm in West Brattleboro and sailing off the coast of Maine.
Staff Spotlight: Tara Brown
Tara Brown, the Lending Manager has been a valued member of the Home Ownership Center with Windham & Windsor Housing Trust for the past 14 years. She’s seen the organization grow, shift, and has been a leader in taking on and managing new programs. Her favorite part of it all? “This is going to sound cliché;” She laughs but continues, “We help a lot of people. When people say that this changes their lives, that’s really powerful.” She reflects on how the whole Home Ownership team works very well together, with the common goal of doing good work. She values the creative approach to challenges, making sure all possibilities are pursued.
In the moments of free time, Tara enjoys spending time outdoors, walking her dog, farming, and time with her family. The COVID-era work from home routine has opened up more time for her dog walks – a silver lining.
Welcome New Staff!
Molly Bennett, SASH Coordinator: Molly comes to us from a career in home care. She served as the Care Manager for Armistead Senior Care running offices in Lebanon, NH and Littleton, NH. She has held a VT nursing assistant license and a certification as a dementia care practitioner. She lives in Quechee, VT with her husband, two boys, dog and cat. She enjoys hiking, running, sewing, and reading.
Bob Crego, Supportive Services Relationship Manager: Bob has worked in community development for over 30 years, largely working with nonprofits in the areas of strategic and business planning, finance management, program development and management, and grant writing. Over the years, Bob has obtained over $30 million in public and private grant funding, primarily for affordable housing, education and health care-related projects. Bob received a Master of Arts in Teaching from the University of New Hampshire in Durham, and a B.A. in History from St. Lawrence University in Canton, NY. He lives in Williamsville with his partner, Jean Pollock, and a Tibetan Terrier named Denali.
Paul Martorano, Multi-Family Rental Improvement Coordinator: Paul has been a licensed heating technician and worked as a plumber, as well as a commercial property superintendent and facilities manager for historic Boston properties. He received a teaching degree at Antioch New England and has classroom teaching experience. Paul has a background in case management experience with local social service organizations. Paul and his wife and two daughters live in Chester.
