This is the second spotlight “Leadership Spotlight Series” to introduce you to the team of leaders working to advance HDC’s mission and vision. Meet another Leadership Team member in the next issue of our newsletter.
In November 2019, Kimberly Fletcher joined HDC as Director of Human Resources (HR) . She brings more than 20 years of experience in HR to HDC and holds The Professional in Human Resources (PHR) Certification and the Society for Human Resources Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) Certification. Kimberly has worked to bring HDC’s organizational culture, talent management and HR practices into alignment with our 2020-2025 strategic plan and commitments to racial equity, diversity and inclusion (REDI).
Get to know Kimberly!
What is something important about HDC you have learned in the last year that readers may not know?
The public knows that HDC is a leader in the affordable housing industry, but I think they would be surprised to learn the level of commitment our staff holds. We really care about our residents and want to provide safe housing and quality service. That is real.
You’ve worked at Community Action Partnership of Lancaster County as Chief Personnel Officer. Why do you choose to work in the non-profit sector, specifically community development?
I was actually introduced to the non-profit sector while working in Philadelphia, for a childcare organization. I fell in love with the work and the passion of our employees and was thrilled to follow that same path when my career brought me back to Lancaster. In essence, I really enjoy non-profit work. People are committed, passionate and truly want to make a positive impact in their respective communities, which I find to be refreshing.
What would people be surprised to know about you?
I am relatively skilled in swinging a hammer! My father was a contractor and Master Plumber and exposed my siblings and I to his craft. I truly appreciate HDC’s focus in providing a safe home for our residents. Daddy did that every day and I appreciate our focus more than anyone will ever know.
You’ve been leading our Employee Engagement Committee and sending out “fun” emails to keep staff engaged and encouraged while working remotely. What is your “fun” philosophy?
I have a sign in my office that reads, “Laugh as Much as You Breathe.” That sums it up. Life is complicated enough; I don’t need my behavior or outlook to amplify the complexities of life.
As the Director of HR and a member of the REDI (Racial Equity, Diversity and Inclusion) team, you have a first-hand look through the REDI lens we’ve been applying to all facets of our work and throughout our organization. What are you most proud of HDC for doing in recent months to advance equity as an organization?
REDI work has always been important; however, we need to correct the disparities that have plagued the housing industry for decades. I am very proud to work for an organization that recognizes the value in doing so. I was very appreciative that HDC generated a thoughtful, caring and immediate response in the wake of George Floyd’s murder and the ensuing social injustices practiced throughout our society. I am also very proud that HDC generated educational information related to the history of Juneteenth and that we have also identified it as an official HDC Holiday.
Finding a place to live that meets one’s basic needs and budget can feel like a never-ending challenge. The complexity of lower-income families and individuals extend far beyond simply finding a safe, affordable, and welcoming place to call home. At HDC, we are committed to being an ally in speaking to issues, programs, and policies that improve quality of life of our residents. Issues that we know are important to our residents include:
Every voice matters. At HDC, we are committed to raising up resident voices and opening doors so that residents can actively participate in the democratic process, speak out on issues important to them and their communities, and communicate how policies affect their everyday lives. We believe it is important to make the time and space to listen, and to support resident leaders in effectively using their voices. We support resident advocacy opportunities through our Resident Academy of Leadership & Inspiration, Voter Registration Drives, and holding constituent meetings and tours with elected officials.
We know we can’t solve the affordable housing challenge alone. We need champions to help change the conversation around what home means and why it matters. We are committed to educating elected officials to understand the needs and challenges of their constituents. We are here to provide solutions that work and offer affordable housing expertise that demonstrates the impact policy decisions have on lower-income families, seniors and those with disabilities. We work closely with and participate in alliances and coalitions to educate and advance shared policy priorities. Our advocacy partners include:
Wendy Smith serves as the Vice President of Property Management, responsible for the overall strategic direction for HDC’s management portfolio and the organization’s largest staff team. Previously, Wendy served as Asset and Operations Manager for a leading real estate firm based in New York City which owned over 11,000 affordable homes. Since 2008, Wendy has held roles in regional level operations for commercial and for-profit housing agencies. Wendy holds a degree in International Studies.
Allentown, PA
Fredericksburg, PA
Lancaster, PA
