Lawrence Habitat for Humanity has found a new executive director.

Erika Zimmerman, formerly the director of grants at the Boys and Girls Club of Lawrence, will take over as the organization’s new leader on Sept. 23, said Habitat’s Community Outreach Coordinator Maddie Hinds.

Erika Zimmerman

Zimmerman will replace Lori Harse, who was the executive director for more than seven years, Hinds said.

Although Zimmerman is Lawrence Habitat for Humanity’s newest hire, she’s no stranger to the program, Hinds said. Previously she volunteered her time working for the organization.

“She actually started out as a volunteer on our Family Support Committee,” Hinds said. “Which means she worked closely with the families we selected and prepared them for home ownership. I think she has worked with three or four families.”

In addition, Zimmerman has served on the organization’s board of directors and executive committee, Hinds said.

Zimmerman said she enjoyed her time volunteering with Habitat for Humanity and sees the executive director position as a chance to give back to the community even more.

“I see the impact that volunteers have and I wanted to be a part of that,” she said. “I wholeheartedly believe in the mission and I know the good works they do and I’m excited for the new challenge.”

Zimmerman’s duties will include overseeing staff members, recruiting and training board members, working alongside existing committees and fine-tuning the organization’s policies and programs, Hinds said.

“We’re excited,” Hinds said. “Habitat is on the upswing, and Erika will definitely help us keep going in the right direction.”

Zimmerman said it’s her goal to make sure everybody is aware of his or her part in the organization’s goal of providing quality, affordable housing within the community.

“Habitat is at a good place right now, but I want to take it to the next level,” she said. “And I want us to impact as many families as we can.”