Habitat for Humanity of Greater Chattanooga today announced the appointment of Pete Palmer as executive director.

“Pete has demonstrated commitment,leadership and ability to direct the Chattanooga Habitat affiliate in fulfilling its mission to give tangibleexpression to the love of God through the work of eliminating poverty housing,” stated Chip Lusk, chairman of the board’s search committee.

Mr. Palmer has been associated with Chattanooga Habitat since 1997, serving on the executive committee and most recently as board president.

Prior to retiring from Regions Bank, he worked with Habitat to secure funding for housing at Fairview Park, Habitat Square and Shepherd Park.

Additionally, he serves as a director on the boards of the Chattanooga Community Development Housing Organization and the Friends of Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park.

He said, “I am blessed to be part of a ministry which brings diverse groups of people together to make affordable housing and better communities a reality for everyone.

“We have a terrific,hard working staff who is passionate about Habitat. Over the next year, we plan to enhance our homeowner education program, renovate our ReStore to expand its operations, and train additional work crew leaders to increase our annual construction capacity. Currently, we are building three houses with a fourth about to start. We are deeply grateful to our local oundations,businesses,churches, schools and individuals for partnering with us in our efforts to transform lives, one home at a time.”

Habitat for Humanity of Greater Chattanooga is a nonprofit, ecumenical Christian housing organization dedicated to transforming our community through the construction of simple, decent and affordable homes through partnerships with volunteers and low-income families. The houses are sold to these families at no profit and with no interest. Founded in 1986, the Chattanooga Habitat affiliate has built 215 homes to date. The Habitat ReStore accepts donations of new and gently used home improvement items from individuals and businesses in the community, and sells those items to thepublic at a reduced price, usually 50-70 percent of the original retail value. For more information about Habitat for Humanity of Greater Chattanooga, visit www.habichatt.org.